5 Things You Must Do After You Apply

After the umpteenth online application form is complete, resume is uploaded and “submit” button clicked, it is tempting to call it a day and move on.  Big mistake.  Here are a few things you should do right now, while you are still in front of your computer. 

1. Review  your network of contacts to determine if anyone you already know can shepherd your application through the process.  Company searches on LinkedIn are a great place to start.
2. Grab a calendar and mark the position you applied to, noting the date you applied and materials sent
3. Track any follow up communications about this position in the same location.
4. Mark an appointment on your calendar to get confirmation that your application was received.  You may get an automatic email confirmation immediately, or nothing at all.  If you took the time to apply, it is worth an email or phone call to make sure it got there.
5. Mark another appointment on your calendar to go back and inquire where the search is in the process.  (Yes, you have to call and ask someone at the company first!)  Without better information,  use the expiration date of the position posting as a cue to help you decide when to follow up.

Don’t make the mistake of leaving the follow up to the employer.  You can bet there are other candidates actively following up. The squeaky wheel is more likely to get the grease.

Michelle St. Onge

~Michelle