You’ve spent time searching through LinkedIn job postings, tailored your resume and cover letter, and submitted your application with excitement. But then…nothing. Days go by without any response from the company or recruiter. The waiting game can be frustrating and make you question if your application was even seen. Here’s some guidance on why you may not be hearing back and what steps to take.
Why you aren’t getting responses
There are a few common reasons your LinkedIn job applications may be going into a black hole:
- The position has already been filled – Often companies forget to remove job postings or delay taking them down. You may be applying after they’ve already hired someone.
- Your application was filtered out – Large companies can get flooded with hundreds of applicants. They use tracking systems that scan for keywords and auto-reject applications that don’t have them.
- You weren’t a top candidate match – Recruiters review applicants and cherry pick the ones that seem like the best fit for the role and team.
- You applied late – Some roles get so many applicants within the first few days that reviewers never make it down to later submissions.
- A hiring freeze – The company may have decided to pause or cancel the opening due to budget cuts or changing needs.
- Technical issues – There’s a small chance your application had trouble getting through or went to the wrong person.
Following up on your application
Don’t let silence stop you from pursuing an opportunity. After about 1-2 weeks without a response, it’s appropriate to follow up. Here are some tips:
- Double check you have the right contact – Make sure your follow-up is going to the correct recruiter or hiring manager.
- Keep it short and simple – A brief message reiterating your interest and fit for the role is sufficient.
- Mention specifics – Reference the position title and where/when you applied to jog their memory.
- Be gracious – Maintain a positive tone even if you feel discouraged.
- Offer your assistance – Say you’re happy to provide any additional information needed.
- Follow-up again if needed – Allow 1-2 weeks for a reply, then send one more short follow-up.
For example, your message could be:
“Hi [name], I wanted to follow up on the [position] role I applied for on [date]. I’m very interested in the position and believe I would be a great fit. Please let me know if you need any additional information from me. I look forward to hearing from you soon.”
Other ways to get noticed
Beyond directly following up, here are some other tactics you can use to stand out and get your LinkedIn application attention:
- Leverage your network – See if you have any connections at the company who could put in a referral.
- Show off your knowledge – Comment on the company’s posts to display your passion and expertise.
- Personalize your messages – Highlight specific skills or experience you have that matches the role.
- Use LinkedIn messaging – Try sending the recruiter an InMail if you can’t find their email address.
- Connect with the recruiter – Ask to add them on LinkedIn if you haven’t already.
- Check for updates – See if the job posting has been relisted which may indicate they are still reviewing applicants.
When to move on
If you’ve sent a follow-up or two with no reply after several weeks, it may be time to shift your focus elsewhere. Continuing to message repeatedly is unlikely to change the outcome. Take the lack of response as a “no” for now and apply your effort toward new opportunities. But all hope isn’t lost…
Getting a late response
Occasionally companies or recruiters experience delays and you may still hear back weeks or months later. If you receive a response to your LinkedIn job application asking you to interview or move forward, congratulations! Be sure to schedule a time promptly if you’re still interested.
Let the recruiter know if the timing no longer works for you, whether you’ve accepted another role or have other commitments. A late response is still a positive update that your application was seen and you made the shortlist. Keep the door open for future chances.
Key takeaways
- Don’t take lack of response personally – hiring processes are complex.
- Follow up politely 1-2 weeks after applying.
- Try connecting with company insiders to get visibility.
- If you haven’t heard back after several attempts within a few weeks, move on.
- Stay open minded if they do reach out months later.
With persistence, the right opportunities will recognize your skills and potential. Use silence as a chance to improve your LinkedIn profile, grow connections, and find roles that are an even better match. Patience and perseverance in your job search will pay off.
