What to Do After Submitting a Job Application

Submitting a job application can feel like the hardest part of the job search, but your work shouldn't stop after clicking "Apply."

While waiting for a response, there are several things you can do to improve your chances of getting hired and prepare for the next opportunity.

Here are some practical steps to take after submitting a job application.

1. Keep a Record of Your Application

Don't rely on your memory.

Record important details such as:

1. Company name
2. Job title
3. Date you applied
4. Application link
5. Closing date, if available
6. Contact person, if provided

You can use a simple spreadsheet or notebook to track your applications.

This will also help you remember which position you applied for if the employer contacts you.

2. Read the Job Description Again

Take another look at the job description.

Pay attention to the skills, responsibilities and qualifications the employer mentioned.

This can help you prepare for a possible interview. If you're contacted, you will already have an idea of what the employer is looking for.

3. Prepare for an Interview

Don't wait until you receive an interview invitation before preparing.

Practise answering common questions such as:

1. Tell me about yourself.
2. Why do you want this job?
3. Why should we hire you?
4. What are your strengths and weaknesses?
5. What salary are you expecting?
6. Tell us about your previous experience.

Also prepare a few questions you can ask the employer.

4. Don't Stop Applying

One of the biggest mistakes job seekers make is stopping their job search after applying for one job.

You may be qualified, but there is no guarantee that you will be selected.

Continue looking for other suitable opportunities while waiting for a response.

One application should not stop your entire job search.

5. Follow Up Professionally

If the employer provided a contact person or application follow-up instructions, follow them.

If there is no specific instruction, you can consider sending a short and professional follow-up after a reasonable period.

Avoid sending multiple messages every day asking whether you have been selected.

A professional follow-up should be polite, brief and show continued interest in the position.

6. Improve Your CV and Skills

Use the waiting period productively.

Review your CV and identify areas that could be improved.

You can also learn a skill that is frequently required for the types of jobs you're applying for.

For example, if you're applying for administrative roles, you could improve your knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Google Workspace or other productivity tools.

7. Check Your Email and Phone Regularly

Employers may contact candidates through email or phone.

Check your inbox, spam folder and missed calls regularly.

Make sure your voicemail, email address and WhatsApp profile are professional enough for a potential employer to contact you.

8. Be Careful With Job Scams

Not every person who contacts you after a job application is a legitimate employer.

1. Be cautious if someone:
2. Demands a large payment before an interview or employment
3. Promises a guaranteed job
4. Requests sensitive information unnecessarily
5. Sends suspicious links or documents
6. Offers unrealistic salaries for very little work

Always verify the employer before providing sensitive information or making payments.

9. Stay Positive

Job searching can take time.

You may receive several rejections before getting an offer, and rejection doesn't necessarily mean you aren't qualified.

Use each application as an opportunity to improve your CV, interview skills and job-search strategy.

What If You Don't Get a Response?

Don't assume that silence means you should stop looking for work.

Continue applying for other positions.

If you eventually receive a rejection and the employer provides feedback, use it to improve your future applications.

The goal isn't to get every job you apply for. The goal is to find the right opportunity.

Final Thoughts

Submitting a job application is only one step in the hiring process.

After applying, prepare for an interview, track your application, follow up professionally, continue applying and keep improving your skills.

Most importantly, don't put your entire job search on hold while waiting for one employer.

Keep applying. Keep learning. Keep improving.

And when the right opportunity comes, you'll be ready.

Looking for new job opportunities in Nigeria? Check Joblink Nigeria regularly for the latest vacancies and career resources.