Applying to VA is a commitment, and the results of your effort will show when you land that job you’ve been waiting for. However, there are a few points in the application process where you will probably feel like you should have heard something—anything—so you know where you stand.
First of all, relax. Take a beat, take a breath, and remember that you could be one of dozens, if not hundreds, of candidates applying for the same job. Processing that number of qualified applicants can take some time, so patience is paramount.
If you’re still uncertain, and want to reach out, follow these helpful tips on when and how to follow up with a hiring manager. You’ll get your answers, and they’ll appreciate that you made the effort.
Reaching out after your application
After you’ve applied, remember that the hiring team won’t look at your application until the job announcement closes to ensure that all applicants are treated fairly. None of the applicants, including you, will hear anything until after the closing date listed in the job announcement.
Once the announcement closes, you can generally expect to hear from the hiring team about 15-30 days after the announcement closes. That may seem like a long time, but remember, you’re just one of many people applying, so give the hiring team some time.
Outside of that window, though, you can contact the hiring office listed in the announcement to inquire about the status of your application.
When reaching out:
- Keep your email professional and positive. Inquire about where you stand in the process, or if the hiring team needs any more information.
- If they decided you didn’t make the cut, ask if there was anything more you could have done, or something that helped other candidates stand out.
- Accept any feedback graciously and remember that any information they provide can help better your chances the next time.
Reaching out after the interview
After the applications are processed, the highest-qualified applicants will be referred to the hiring manager, who will do their own review and begin interviews.
As you move into the interview phase of the hiring process, most of the communication will be flowing in one direction—to you, rather than from you. Answer promptly, but more importantly, answer thoroughly.
However, an email after the interview is a great way to recap the experience and provide a positive reminder of your interactions with the hiring manager. While it won’t guarantee you the job, the extra effort has made more than one candidate shine.
When reaching out:
- Send a quick thank-you note to the hiring manager in the first few days following your interview. Keep it short and professional.
- Include something you learned during the interview to show your interest and that you were paying attention.
- Close by thanking them for their time and saying you look forward to speaking with them again soon.
Reaching out during the hiring process
It’s important to remember that the hiring timeline can be affected by any number of factors. The number of positions to be filled, the need for the position, and even the number of candidates can slow down or speed up the process.
Still, we know the wait can be stressful, and you may be tempted to write off your chances if you don’t hear anything. However, reaching out for more information can be just the thing to put your mind at ease.
When reaching out:
- In the weeks following your interview, send a brief email to the hiring manager.
- Follow the same outline as above: be brief, be interested, and be polite.
- Stay positive, and leave the door open to any additional information or clarification.
Work at VA
Remember, when it comes to getting the job you want, patience is key, but good communication is one of the most important factors on your path to a career serving Veterans.
- LEARN about the application process.
- EXPLORE our FAQ for applicants.
- READ more Job News and Advice.
- FIND more at VA Careers.
