You applied for the job. A week passes. Then two weeks.
Nothing. The silence is frustrating but normal. Most SA employers receive
hundreds of applications per role. Following up the right way can move your
application to the top of the pile. Following up the wrong way can destroy your
chances.
When to Follow Up
Wait at least 7 to 10 business days after the application
deadline. If no deadline was listed, wait two weeks from the date you applied.
Following up too early signals impatience. Following up too late suggests you
forgot about it.
If the job ad said "only shortlisted candidates will
be contacted," you can still follow up once. But accept that silence after
your follow-up means they moved on.
How to Follow Up by Email
Keep the email short. Three to four sentences is enough.
State the role you applied for, the date you applied, and your continued
interest. Attach your CV again in case the original was lost in their inbox.
Subject line: Follow-up:
Application for [Job Title] – [Your Name]
Open with "I hope this message finds you well"
or similar. State that you applied on [date] for the [role] position. Express
your continued interest in one sentence. Close by saying you are happy to
provide any additional information. Sign off with your full name and phone
number.
How to Follow Up by Phone
Only call if you have a direct number for the hiring
manager or HR contact. Switchboard calls to "ask about my
application" rarely work. If you do call, be brief. Introduce yourself,
mention the role, and ask if there is an update on the process. Do not push for
an answer on the spot.
What Not to Do
Do not follow up more than twice. Do not send the same
email three times. Do not message the hiring manager on LinkedIn with "Did
you see my CV?" Do not call every day. Persistence and pestering are not
the same thing.
Do not take silence personally. Companies sometimes
freeze roles, change direction, or fill positions internally. It is rarely
about you.
Use the Waiting Time Wisely
While you wait, keep applying elsewhere. Update your
VulaMart profile with any new skills or experience. Ask for verified references
through the platform so your profile is stronger for the next opportunity.
Build
trust with verified work references on VulaMart → vulamart.co.za/references