Wait around one week after applying, then send a short, polite email or call to confirm your application was received and restate your interest. Keep it brief and friendly. Following up shows initiative and can help your application stand out among first-time job seekers.
When is the right time to follow up on a job application in NZ?
Around five to seven working days after you submit your application is a sensible window. This gives the employer enough time to receive and review applications without you seeming impatient. If the job ad specifies a closing date, it is usually better to wait until just after that date has passed.
If the ad mentions a specific timeline for contacting candidates, respect that first before reaching out. Following up too soon, within a day or two, can come across as anxious rather than proactive.
What should I actually say when I follow up?
Keep it short, specific and easy to respond to. State the role you applied for, the date you applied, and a brief line reaffirming your interest. Avoid restating your whole CV or adding new information unless it is genuinely relevant, like a new certificate or reference.
A phone call works well for smaller employers, especially in trades, hospitality or retail, while email is usually safer for larger companies or graduate programmes where applications go through a formal process.
Does following up actually help, or does it look pushy?
Done well, it looks proactive rather than pushy. Employers reviewing large numbers of entry-level applications often appreciate a polite nudge, because it shows genuine interest and confirms you are still available and keen. The key is tone: friendly, brief, no pressure.
- Wait at least five working days unless a deadline says otherwise
- Keep your message to a few sentences
- Reference the exact job title and application date
- Reaffirm interest without repeating your whole CV
- Ask politely about next steps rather than demanding an answer
- Thank them for their time regardless of the response
- Avoid following up more than once unless invited to
Key takeaways
- Around one week after applying is a good general rule for following up.
- Keep the message short: role, date applied, brief reaffirmation of interest.
- A phone call suits smaller employers, email suits larger or more formal hiring processes.
- One respectful follow-up is proactive, repeated follow-ups can tip into pushy.
Frequently asked questions
Is it okay to follow up if the job ad says "only successful applicants will be contacted"?
Yes, a single polite follow-up is still fine even with that wording. It shows initiative, and most employers will not hold it against you as long as your message is brief and respectful.
Should I follow up by phone or email in NZ?
Email is generally safer for larger companies or formal processes, while a phone call can work well for smaller employers in hospitality, retail or trades. If the ad lists a contact name and number, that is a useful cue that a call is welcome.
What if I don't hear back after following up?
It is reasonable to leave it there after one follow-up. Continuing to chase can start to feel like pressure. Focus your energy on other applications rather than repeated check-ins with the same employer.
Should I mention that I've applied elsewhere when I follow up?
Generally no, unless you have a genuine competing offer with a deadline. Keep the follow-up focused on your interest in their specific role rather than turning it into leverage.
If you are not sure how to word your follow-up message, Write This Email gives you a ready-to-send version in seconds.