The Fine Line Between Persistent and Annoying

You had a great interview in Victoria Island. They said, “We will get back to you in two weeks.” Three weeks have passed, and nothing. Silence. You are refreshing your email every 5 minutes and staring at your phone.

Should you call them? Should you send an email? Will you look desperate?

As an HR professional, let me tell you: following up is good. It shows initiative. But there is a right way to do it.

Here are the golden rules for following up on a job application:

  1. Respect the Timeline: If they said they will get back to you by Friday, do not email them on Wednesday. Wait until the following Monday.
  2. Use Email First: Do not call a recruiter’s personal phone number unless they explicitly told you to. A polite email is the professional standard.
  3. Keep it Short and Polite: Do not sound accusatory. (“You promised to call me last week…”). Instead, reiterate your interest.
  4. Add Value in the Follow-up: Share an article or a quick thought related to something you discussed in the interview.
  5. The 3-Strike Rule: If you follow up three times (spaced a week apart) and get no response, move on. They have likely hired someone else and ghosted you.

The Perfect Follow-Up Template

Subject: Following up on [Job Title] Interview - [Your Name]

“Hi [Interviewer’s Name],

I hope you’re having a great week.

I’m following up on my interview for the [Job Title] position on [Date]. I remain very interested in the role and the opportunity to help the team with [mention a specific problem discussed].

Please let me know if there are any updates regarding the next steps, or if you need any additional information from my end.

Best regards, [Your Name]“

Accept Rejection Gracefully

If they reply saying they went with another candidate, reply and thank them for their time. Nigeria is a small place; that same recruiter might move to another company next year and remember your professionalism. Don’t burn bridges.