How to Ask for an Update in a Resume Email Reply
If you have sent your resume and received no reply, or if you are waiting for a decision after an interview, you need to know how to ask for an update politely. This guide gives you direct, professional phrases you can use in a resume email reply to check on your application status without sounding pushy or impatient.
Quick Answer: Asking for an Update
Use a polite, brief request that shows respect for the recipient’s time. A safe formula is: Greeting + Reason for writing + Polite question + Thank you.
Example:
“Dear Ms. Chen, I hope you are well. I am writing to politely follow up on my application for the Marketing Coordinator position. Could you kindly let me know if there are any updates on the hiring timeline? Thank you for your time.”
Formal vs. Informal Tone
Your choice of words depends on your relationship with the recipient and the company culture.
| Context | Tone | Example Phrase |
|---|---|---|
| Large corporation, unknown hiring manager | Formal | “I would appreciate it if you could provide an update at your earliest convenience.” |
| Startup, friendly recruiter | Informal | “Just checking in—any news on my application?” |
| After an interview, with a direct contact | Semi-formal | “I wanted to follow up on our conversation last week. Do you have any updates?” |
Nuance note: In formal emails, avoid contractions and use complete sentences. In informal emails, a shorter, warmer tone is acceptable, but never rude or demanding.
Natural Examples
Here are three realistic examples you can adapt.
Example 1: Formal follow-up after sending a resume
Subject: Follow-up on Application – Software Engineer
Dear Mr. Patel,
I hope this message finds you well. I submitted my application for the Software Engineer position on March 10 and wanted to politely inquire about the status of my application. Please let me know if you need any additional information from me. Thank you for your consideration.
Best regards,
Alex Rivera
Example 2: Semi-formal follow-up after an interview
Subject: Interview Follow-up – Project Manager Role
Hi Sarah,
Thank you again for the opportunity to interview last Tuesday. I remain very interested in the Project Manager role. Could you kindly share any updates on the next steps? I appreciate your help.
Best,
Jordan Lee
Example 3: Informal check-in with a recruiter
Subject: Quick check-in
Hi Tom,
Hope you’re having a good week. Just wanted to check if there’s any news on my application for the Graphic Designer position. Thanks!
Cheers,
Mia
Common Mistakes
Avoid these errors when asking for an update.
- Being too direct or demanding: “Tell me what’s going on with my application.” This sounds rude. Instead, say “Could you please let me know if there are any updates?”
- Using overly casual language in a formal context: “Hey, what’s up with my job?” is not appropriate for a corporate email. Match the tone to the situation.
- Asking too soon: Wait at least one week after submitting your resume or after an interview before following up.
- Forgetting to thank the recipient: Always end with a polite thank you, even if you are frustrated.
Better Alternatives to Common Phrases
Replace weak or pushy phrases with these stronger, polite options.
| Weak or Pushy Phrase | Better Alternative |
|---|---|
| “I haven’t heard back yet.” | “I wanted to follow up on my application.” |
| “When will you decide?” | “Could you kindly share the expected timeline?” |
| “Did you get my resume?” | “I wanted to confirm receipt of my application.” |
| “I need an answer now.” | “I would appreciate an update when you have a moment.” |
When to use it: Use the better alternatives in any professional email to maintain a respectful tone and increase your chances of a positive response.
Mini Practice Section
Test your understanding with these four questions. Write your own answers, then check the suggested responses below.
Question 1: You applied for a job two weeks ago and have heard nothing. Write a formal email asking for an update.
Question 2: You had an interview yesterday. Is it appropriate to ask for an update today? Why or why not?
Question 3: Rewrite this rude request politely: “I need to know if I got the job. Tell me now.”
Question 4: You are emailing a recruiter you have met twice. Write a semi-formal follow-up.
Suggested answers:
Answer 1: “Dear Ms. Park, I hope you are well. I am writing to follow up on my application for the Data Analyst position submitted on March 1. Could you kindly let me know if there are any updates? Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Sam Kim.”
Answer 2: No, it is too soon. Wait at least five to seven business days after an interview. Asking the next day may seem impatient.
Answer 3: “I am very interested in the position and would appreciate any update you can share about the hiring decision. Thank you.”
Answer 4: “Hi Chris, hope you’re doing well. I wanted to check in on my application for the Sales Associate role. Do you have any updates? Thanks a lot! Best, Priya.”
FAQ: Asking for an Update in a Resume Email Reply
1. How long should I wait before asking for an update?
Wait at least one week after submitting your resume and at least five business days after an interview. If the job posting mentioned a timeline, respect that.
2. What if I get no reply after my follow-up?
Send one more polite follow-up after another week. If you still hear nothing, it is best to move on and focus on other opportunities. Do not send multiple emails in a short period.
3. Can I ask for an update by phone?
Only if you have a direct phone number and the company culture allows calls. Email is safer because it gives the recipient time to respond. If you call, be brief and polite.
4. Should I mention my interview in the follow-up?
Yes, if you have had an interview. Referencing the interview reminds the recipient of your conversation and shows you are engaged. For example: “Thank you again for the interview on Tuesday. I wanted to follow up on next steps.”
Final Tips
Always proofread your email before sending. Keep your request short and focused. Remember that hiring managers are busy, so a polite, clear message is more likely to get a response. For more help with starting your email, visit our Resume Email Reply Starters section. To practice writing your own replies, check out Resume Email Reply Practice Replies. If you have further questions, see our FAQ or contact us.
