What to say, when to say it, and how to stay top of mind without sounding pushy
You had the call. You think it went well. But now? Silence.
Should you follow up? Wait? Check in again? Say nothing?
Here’s the truth: following up isn’t desperate. Done well, it’s professional and expected.
But most people either go quiet and hope for the best, or follow up too soon and come off as anxious.
This isn’t about chasing. It’s about signaling intention.
Recruiters are busy. They manage dozens of roles and hundreds of candidates. Following up, with clarity and respect, helps them help you.
When should you follow up after a recruiter call?
🕒 Ideal timing: within 24 to 48 hours
This keeps you fresh in their mind and shows you’re engaged, not passive or forgetful.
If they gave you a timeline (“I’ll follow up by Friday”), don’t follow up before that. If that timeline passes and you’ve heard nothing, it’s fair to check in 2–3 days later.
What to say: follow-up message framework
Your message should be short, specific, and easy to respond to.
Example 1: Right after the first screening call
Hi [Name],
Thank you again for the conversation yesterday. I enjoyed learning more about the [Job Title] role and how the team is evolving.
I’m excited about the opportunity and would love to continue the process if it feels like the right fit on your end as well.
Let me know if I can provide anything else in the meantime.
Best,
[Your Name]
Example 2: Checking in after a missed timeline
Hi [Name],
Hope your week is going well. I wanted to quickly follow up on our last conversation regarding the [Job Title] role. You mentioned next steps might be around [timeframe], so I just wanted to check in and see if there are any updates.
Still very interested and happy to provide anything needed.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
How to follow up without sounding insecure
- ✅ Keep the tone neutral and respectful
- ✅ Reaffirm interest without over-selling
- ✅ Show that you’re proactive, not impatient
What not to do:
- ❌ Ask “Did I get the job?” too early, too direct
- ❌ Say “Just following up again…” repeatedly, it sounds anxious
- ❌ Apologize for following up, no need to say “Sorry to bother you”
How often should you follow up?
Once after the call, and once again if you haven’t heard back in a reasonable window (usually 5–7 business days).
After that? Move forward, but leave the door open. You never know when a new opportunity with that same recruiter will pop up again.
Optional: a soft close follow-up
Hi [Name],
Just following up one last time in case things are still in motion. Totally understand if priorities have shifted, would be happy to stay connected for future roles as well.
All the best,
[Your Name]
Follow-up isn’t about pressure. It’s about presence.
Following up isn’t a power move. It’s a signal: I’m still here, I’m still interested, and I know how to communicate like a professional.
Final thought: Candidates who follow up the right way don’t come across as pushy. They come across as people who know how to lead.