What to do after you apply
How to keep track of applications, when to follow up, and how to handle silence or a rejection.
Keep track
Write down every job you apply for: the employer, the date, the closing date and how you applied. Keep a copy of the advert, because it may disappear after the closing date and you'll want it before an interview. On Kaziplat, marking a job as applied keeps this list for you.
When to follow up
Many employers only contact shortlisted candidates. If the advert gives a contact and doesn't say otherwise, a short, polite message about two weeks after the closing date is reasonable. Mention the job title and the date you applied. Don't send repeated messages.
A sample follow-up message
"Dear Ms Mrema, I applied for the position of Procurement Officer on 4 March, before the closing date of 14 March. I remain very interested in the role and would be grateful for any update on the process. Thank you for your time. Yours sincerely, Baraka Mollel, 0754 321 987."
Keep it this short. Send it once, to the contact the advert gave.
If you don't hear back
Silence is common and usually isn't about you: some jobs receive hundreds of applications. Keep applying while you wait, and don't stop your search for one job. If you're turned down after an interview, it's fine to ask politely for feedback.
If you are shortlisted
Reply to invitations promptly and confirm you will attend. If the date is impossible, say so straight away and ask politely whether another time is possible. Some employers can't change dates, especially for group tests. Write down the date, time, venue and what to bring, and keep your phone on.
After an interview
Send a short thank-you message the same day if you have a contact. If the panel told you when they expected to decide and that time has passed, a single polite message asking for an update is fine. Meanwhile, keep applying elsewhere: an interview is not an offer until you have it in writing.
Learn from each application
Every few weeks, look at your list. Which applications led to interviews, and which didn't? Were the ones that worked closer to your field, or written differently? Adjust your CV and letters based on what you learn. If you keep reaching interviews but not offers, practise interview answers with a friend.
Look after yourself
Searching for work can be discouraging. Set a routine, take breaks, stay in touch with friends and family, and count the steps you take, such as applications sent and courses finished, not only offers. Rejection is part of every job search and says little about your worth.
More guides
- How to write a CV employers read
- How to write an application letter
- How to prepare for a job interview
- How to apply for a job by email
- How to spot fake job adverts
- Documents to have ready before you apply
- Finding your first job after college
- Applying for government jobs in Tanzania
- Building the skills employers ask for
- How to read a job advert before you apply
- How to find an internship or field attachment
- How to search and apply for jobs using only your phone
- How to choose and prepare your referees
- How to prepare for written tests and aptitude tests
- What to check before you accept a job offer
- How to explain gaps in your CV
- How to find jobs through the people you know
- How to move into a new field
- How to do well in your first weeks at a new job