How to Ask a Recruiter for an Update

You tap your foot impatiently as you stare at your phone, willing it to ring with an update from the recruiter you’ve been working with. It’s been over a week since your last conversation and the radio silence is making you anxious. What should you do?

Reach Out Politely for an Update

It’s completely reasonable to check in with your recruiter after about a week without any contact. A quick phone call or email lets them know you’re still interested in the role while giving you the chance to get valuable feedback.

When you reach out, make sure to:

Be Polite and Professional

A recruiter’s time is valuable so politely ask if they have a few minutes to provide an update. Thank them for their efforts on your behalf and reiterate your interest in the position.

Ask About the Next Steps

Inquire if they’ve received any feedback, positive or negative, from the hiring manager. See if they know the next steps, like scheduling a second interview. Sometimes the process moves slower than expected.

Also Check: How Much Do Recruiters Get Paid?

Check if More Information is Needed

See if additional information or references are needed from you. Be proactive and offer to provide anything that could help move your application forward. For example, there are times when the hiring company needs to have a non-disclosure agreement signed before scheduling an interview. Ask if this is the case and who will be sending the email.

Express Appreciation

Regardless of the update, let your recruiter know you appreciate them facilitating the process. Recruiters work hard on behalf of candidates, so a little gratitude goes a long way.

Follow Up Appropriately

• If they have feedback, use it to evaluate your fit and interest in the role. Follow the recruiter’s advice on any suggested next steps.
• If the process is still ongoing, thank them for the update and highlight your continued interest.
• If you don’t get a response within a couple days, send a polite follow up. Recruiters are busy, so a reminder email may have gotten lost in the shuffle.

The job search process can be frustrating when things go quiet. But staying professional and proactive is the best way to get the answers you need to keep moving forward. With a little politeness and patience, you’ll get the update you’ve been waiting for in no time!

Ask a Recruiter for Update FAQs

What’s the best way to contact the recruiter?

A phone call is ideal if possible. It establishes a more personal connection and allows you to have an actual conversation. If unavailable by phone, a polite and professional email works too.

How long should I wait before contacting them?

Wait about 1 week after your last conversation before checking in. Giving it a little time shows patience on your end and allows the recruiter a chance to potentially get new information for you.

What if the recruiter doesn’t know any updates yet?

If it’s still early in the hiring process, politely ask when they expect to potentially have more details. Get clarity on the anticipated timeline and if any additional information is needed from you in the meantime.

What if I still don’t get a response after following up?

If your follow up goes unanswered after a couple days, try contacting them one more time. Include that it’s your second attempt to connect and politely underscore your interest in the role. If you still don’t hear back, it may be time to expand your search.

Could repeatedly contacting them hurt my chances?

It shouldn’t, especially if you only follow up twice and keep communications brief, polite, and professional. But use good judgment and don’t risk pestering them. If it’s radio silence after two attempts, redirect your efforts elsewhere.