Fortune in Follow-Up

According to a survey of 150 hiring executives, recently conducted by Robert Half International, a whopping 82% said job seekers should follow-up within two weeks of submitting application materials. Only 5% said professionals should refrain from communicating once a resume has been sent.

Executives were asked, "How long should a job seeker wait to follow up with the hiring manager after submitting a resume?" Their responses:

• One week or less 37%
• One to two weeks 45%
• Two to three weeks 9%
• Three weeks or more 3%
• Don't follow up 5%
• Don't know 1%

Executives also were asked, "In your opinion, what is the best way for a job seeker to follow up with a hiring manager after submitting a resume?" The top three responses were via e-mail (38 percent), telephone (33 percent) and a handwritten note (23 percent).

Bottom line? Executives expect you to follow-up. Don't fall into the trap of thinking you're being a pest by checking on the status of your application.
Source: Jobs and Moms Newsletter, March 1, 2006