After sending an application, it is easy to wonder whether your CV reached the right person. A follow-up can be useful when it adds context or asks a clear question. Several messages saying “Any update?” usually give the reader more work without giving them more information.

Before you send anything, reopen the vacancy and your original application. Check for a closing date, a response timeline or a request not to contact the employer directly.

Let the employer’s instructions guide the timing

If the listing says shortlisted applicants will be contacted after a deadline, allow that process to run. If the recruiter gave you a date for an update, use it as your reference point. A follow-up shortly after applying may be unnecessary unless you need to correct an important error.

Where no timeline is given, use your judgement about the role and the application date. A brief check-in after a reasonable interval is usually more useful than repeated messages over a few days. There is no universal timetable that every employer follows.

Use the original conversation

Reply to the application email when that is an appropriate contact route. This keeps the role, attachment and date together. If you applied through a portal, check its status page or contact instructions first. Avoid finding an employee’s personal number and moving the conversation there without an invitation.

Identify the role, mention when you applied and ask one question. The purpose is to make your application easy to locate, not to ask the reader to reassess your entire CV in the message.

An example of a concise follow-up

Dear Hiring Team,

I am following up on my application for the Customer Service Representative position, submitted on [date]. I remain interested in the role and would appreciate any update you can share about the next stage.

Please let me know if you need any further information from me.

Thank you for your time.
[Your name]

Replace the role and date with the correct details. If you spoke with a named recruiter, address them directly. Mention a relevant update only if it is real, such as completing a requested qualification or becoming available on a different date.

Correct mistakes clearly

If you attached the wrong CV, send a short correction that identifies the right file. Do not write a long explanation that makes the reader search for what changed. Check the replacement carefully before sending it.

If your contact details have changed, say exactly which details should be used. Our CV tips include a final accuracy check that can prevent these problems.

Know when to move on

A lack of response is not enough information to judge your ability or the employer’s reason. Hiring can be delayed, changed or closed. Record your follow-up, respect any instructions you receive and continue considering other roles.

Keep your attention on actions you can control: finding suitable UAE vacancies, making each application relevant and preparing for interviews. If a recruiter replies with an interview invitation, our interview guide can help you organise the next step.

Be cautious if a supposed update asks you to pay for an interview or send sensitive documents through an unverified account. Review our job-search safety advice before acting on an unusual request.