One of the biggest mistakes that we see job seekers making when using our job board or others is failing to follow-up with the employers after applying to work for them. The old adage about the squeaky wheel getting the grease is absolutely true. Some employers will disregard applications from candidates unless they follow-up because the employers perceive -- often incorrectly -- that a lack of follow-up is indicative of only passing interest and candidates who follow-up are more interested and therefore more likely to accept an offer. We counsel job seekers to follow-up to every application four to five business days after the employer should have received the application. Unless the candidate has mailed or overnighted an application, that means that they should be on the phone one week after submitting their application.

Most candidates would do so but don't know how to reach the appropriate person. Virtually every employer web site has a Contact Us or About Us section and there's almost always a phone number listed there. Call and ask for human resources and then ask them to confirm that they've received your application. A week is typically not enough time for them to decide whether to interview you and it is best for the initial call to be non-confrontational. You should even explain that you know that some applications never arrive due to technical problems so you just want to make sure that yours didn't fall into some black hole. Make a joke out of it. When they confirm they've received your resume, ask them for the timeline. When will it be reviewed? When should you hear back? Then follow-up one to two business days after that deadline and repeat the process.