Submitting a job application in Finland is just the first step. A well-timed and professional follow-up can make all the difference in demonstrating your enthusiasm and standing out in a competitive market. Finnish recruiters value initiative, politeness, and professionalism, so following up the right way is essential. Here’s a guide to mastering the art of the follow-up.
Why Follow Up?
Employers in Finland often receive numerous applications for a single position. Following up shows initiative, reinforces your interest, and helps keep your application top of mind. A thoughtful follow-up can even give you an edge over candidates who don’t check in.
In Finland’s egalitarian and structured work culture, professionalism and attention to detail are highly prized. Following up not only emphasizes your enthusiasm but also reflects your understanding of these values, positioning you as a serious candidate.
In addition, many Finnish companies rely on streamlined hiring processes. A timely follow-up can serve as a gentle nudge, ensuring your application isn’t overlooked in busy periods.
When to Follow Up?
Timing your follow-up is critical. Finnish hiring processes are often structured, so patience and adherence to timelines are essential.
General Guidelines:
- Wait 7–10 Days: After submitting your application, give it about a week before following up.
- If a Deadline Is Mentioned: Wait a week after the deadline to allow the employer time to review applications.
For multinational companies based in Finland, response times might vary depending on the scale of operations and the volume of applications. Researching the company’s size and typical hiring timelines can help you better gauge when to follow up.
How to Follow Up Professionally
1. Find the Right Contact
Identify the appropriate person to reach out to. Check the job posting or the company’s website for the hiring manager’s name or email. If this information isn’t available, platforms like LinkedIn can be useful for identifying the right contact.
2. Craft a Polite Email
A follow-up email should be concise, professional, and polite. Here’s an example:
Subject: Follow-Up on Job Application for [Job Title]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I recently applied for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] on [Date of Application]. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and wanted to check on the status of my application.
Please let me know if there’s any additional information I can provide. Thank you for your time and consideration!
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Information]
3. Be Patient
If you don’t receive a response right away, wait at least another week before considering a second follow-up. Persistence is good, but pushing too hard can backfire.
What to Avoid?
- Calling Too Soon: Avoid following up the day after you apply. This can come across as impatient or unprofessional.
- Being Pushy: Maintain a polite and respectful tone in all communications. Finnish professionals value calm and considerate interactions.
- Spamming: Limit follow-ups to two polite emails unless the hiring manager explicitly invites you to send further updates.
How Job Application Builder Can Help
The follow-up process is important, but it all begins with a strong job application. A polished and professional application sets the stage for successful communication with potential employers. Job Application Builder can help you:
- Analyze job descriptions to identify key skills and keywords.
- Create tailored resumes and cover letters that align with Finnish workplace standards.
- Ensure your application is polished, professional, and ready to impress.
For more tips on crafting an engaging application, check out our article on Job Application Language. With a strong application, you can follow up confidently, knowing your materials make a lasting impression.