The wait time can be frustrating when it comes to hearing back from a company after applying for a job. As an IT professional, you know that time is of the essence in this fast-paced industry. In this article, we will explore how long it typically takes for a company to call you after applying and provide tips on how to follow up without coming across as pushy or desperate.
Case Study: John’s Experience
John applied for a software engineering position at XYZ Inc., a well-known IT company in his area. After submitting his resume and cover letter, he eagerly awaited a response but heard nothing for two weeks. John felt like he was being ignored and started to question whether he had made a mistake by applying to the company in the first place.
To help others who may be going through a similar situation, we spoke with John to get his insights on what worked for him. “I decided to reach out to the recruiter directly and ask for an update,” John said. “I was polite and asked if there had been any progress on my application. The recruiter responded right away and informed me that my interview had been scheduled for the next day.”
John’s experience shows that sometimes, it takes a little bit of persistence to get a response from a company. However, it’s important not to come across as pushy or aggressive when following up.
Research: The Average Wait Time
According to a survey conducted by Glassdoor, the average wait time for a job applicant to hear back from a company is 24 days. However, this can vary depending on the industry and the size of the company. In the IT industry, the wait time may be shorter due to the high demand for skilled professionals.
Expert Opinion: Why It Takes So Long to Hear Back
We spoke with Sarah Johnson, a career coach specializing in the IT industry. “There are many factors that can contribute to the delay in hearing back from a company,” she said. “It could be that they’re reviewing a large number of applications or that they need to wait for budget approval before making an offer.”
Sarah also emphasized the importance of being patient during the job search process. “It can be frustrating to wait for a response, but it’s important to remember that companies are busy and may not have the capacity to respond right away,” she said.
Real-Life Examples: When Following Up Pays Off
While waiting to hear back from a company can be stressful, there are times when following up can pay off. For example, John’s experience shows that reaching out directly to the recruiter can help expedite the process and get your application noticed.
A study by LinkedIn found that job seekers who follow up with companies on their applications are 2x more likely to get hired than those who don’t. This highlights the importance of following up in a professional and polite manner.
FAQs: How to Follow Up Effectively
Q: When is it appropriate to follow up with a company after applying?
A: It’s generally acceptable to follow up within two weeks of submitting your application. However, you can check the company’s website or job posting to see if there are any specific instructions on when to follow up.
Q: How do I follow up without coming across as pushy or desperate?
A: Be polite and professional when following up with a company. You can start by asking for an update on your application and expressing your interest in the position. Avoid making demands or becoming too aggressive in your communication.
Q: Is it better to call or email the company to follow up?
A: It’s generally best to email the company to follow up. This allows you to send a more professional message and gives the recruiter time to respond if they’re busy.
Summary
In conclusion, waiting to hear back from a company after applying can be frustrating, but it’s important to stay patient and follow up in a professional manner. By following up effectively, you can increase your chances of getting hired and landing the job you want.