Wednesday’s Q&A
Client Question: I send out many resumes and never hear anything back. Should I do some kind of follow up?
Answer: Absolutely! Following up on resumes sent, like sending thank you notes, is an underutilized opportunity to get back in front of employers. Since it takes a little more effort, it is a secret weapon when used correctly.
If at all possible find out the name, email and/or phone number where you are sending your email. Keeping close records will make your efforts more effective. After 5-7 business days send an email or make a phone call to enquire about the position.
Many times you’ll be able to speak with someone affiliated with the position and be able to find out more about the position, such as when and how decisions will be made and what criteria will be used in making the decisions. The more you know the better off you’ll be if called back for an interview.
Thank them for their help and the opportunity to speak with them, even the position has been filled or they let you know you weren’t a good fit for the position. It might be a sign your resume needs help or that you are targeting the wrong type of jobs for the experience you have. It also might just be that they found someone equally qualified before they got to your resume. Whatever the answer, you’ll learn from knowing how employers are making their decisions.
The “What If’s” are endless for why you haven’t been contacted but you’ll never know, learn and grow unless you find out. You could also make the decisions point in your favor by making the phone call. So get into the habit of making follow up phone calls regularly. Some times it takes more than one call to get answers. If they can’t help you during the first call, find out when and how decisions will be made and when a good time to call back would be and again…follow up!!
Many people think they can’t follow up because they have sent their resume online. If you know the name of the company or recruiter posting the job description you can probably do some investigation and find a name or department to contact to find out more information. It is more effort but will definitely be worth it!
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