What is follow-up etiquette after applying for a job?

Dear Sam: I applied online for a position I thought was perfect for my background. In addition, I sent a copy of my resume to the VP of Operations via Priority Mail. Ten days later, I sent the following message via Linkedin:

“Dear Mr. Smith, Hello. I wanted to follow up on my letter and resume, mailed a few weeks ago, to ensure you received them. I have been doing a great deal of research on your company and am very interested in joining the team! Being a business owner for the past 18 years, I believe I can bring my skills and knowledge to help your franchisees be successful!

With sincere interest,

~ Peter Jones”

I have not received a response, but I can see from my

Linkedin activity that he and one of the company’s district managers did look at my Linkedin profile. What would be my next move?

– Peter

Dear Peter: I would avoid saying you have already applied for the job in your follow-ups. It is evident you have done so, as this is a follow-up, but stating it could make someone think, “If I wasn’t interested the first time, why would I be the second time?”

Perhaps opening your message like this might be more impactful.

“Dear Mr. Smith,

As the founder, owner, and manager of an awardwinning, million-dollar-plus restaurant and catering company, I was intrigued and engaged by your posting for a Franchise Consultant. Having owned two franchises before rebranding as my own restaurant, I am equipped with an uncommon level of knowledge serving as a franchisee and owner.

Of course, you can peruse my Linkedin profile for highlights of my career, but as they relate to your business, I wanted to note:

1. I offer significant experience developing first-time policies, processes, and protocols to ensure quality and consistency.

2. I have demonstrated strengths in sourcing, training, and retaining high-caliber teams.

3. I am highly engaged within the community and embed the business as a key community stakeholder.

I know you are busy, but I am confident it would be valuable for us to meet. May I buy you coffee or spend a few minutes with you on the phone to confirm what I know will be a mutually beneficial fit?

With genuine interest.

Peter Jones”

Do you see how that’s a bit more targeted? Be specific and give the reader a reason to take a second look at your candidacy. Great job on the follow-up efforts; I am sure you will be successful!