What to Do When You're Not Hearing Back After Applying
You’ve updated your CV, submitted your application, and now… silence. It’s frustrating, discouraging, and unfortunately, all too common, especially in healthcare, where hiring managers are often balancing recruitment alongside demanding clinical responsibilities.
If you're not hearing back after applying, you’re not alone but you’re also not powerless. Here’s what to do next to regain momentum and boost your chances.
1. Double-Check the Basics
Before assuming the worst, revisit your application with a critical eye:
- Did you tailor your CV and cover letter to the specific role?
- Did you meet the essential criteria listed in the job description?
- Was your contact information accurate and up to date?
- Did you follow all the application instructions carefully?
Even small missteps, like uploading the wrong document or omitting a required detail, can cost you a callback.
Tips:
- If you're applying to NHS or structured healthcare roles, make sure your application clearly addresses each point in the person specification. This is often what short listers use to filter candidates.
- Before your next application, create a checklist to verify you’ve met every requirement and ask someone you trust to review it.
2. Give It Time (But Know When to Follow Up)
Healthcare hiring timelines can be unpredictable. Shortlisting can take longer than expected, especially when multiple departments are involved.
If it’s been more than 7–10 business days since applying (and no closing date was listed) it’s perfectly reasonable to follow up.
Tips:
- Keep your message polite and concise. Demonstrating interest without pressuring the employer reflects well on you.
Example Follow-Up Message:
"I’m just following up on my application for the [Job Title] role submitted on [Date]. I remain very interested in the position and would welcome any updates at your convenience."
- Create a reminder system (within a calendar, spreadsheet, or app) to follow up on every application within a realistic timeframe.
3. Keep Applying - Strategically
One application rarely leads to one offer. The key is to keep applying but with intention.
- Focus on roles that genuinely match your experience and goals.
- Tailor each application and avoid the “spray and pray” approach.
- Take time to research each employer’s values, services, and challenges.
Tips:
- Keep a record of where, when, and how you’ve applied. This helps you track follow-ups and identify patterns, such as which types of roles attract more interest.
- Set a weekly target for high-quality applications (e.g., 3–5 well-targeted roles), and schedule time to reflect on outcomes.
4. Get a Second Opinion on Your CV
Sometimes the issue isn’t your experience, it’s how it’s presented.
Ask a trusted colleague, mentor, or recruiter to review your CV. They might spot things you’ve missed, such as:
- Overuse of jargon
- Gaps in clarity or structure
- A lack of measurable impact or outcomes
Tips:
- In healthcare, your CV should clearly show your clinical competencies, patient population experience, leadership roles, and any work related to audits, quality improvement, or service redesign.
- Haven’t had feedback on your CV in over six months? It’s time for a review, especially if your role or responsibilities have evolved.
5. Reach Out to Stroud Resourcing
Specialist recruiters offer insights that job boards can’t, we offer:
- Market insights: Know which employers are hiring and which roles are stalling.
- CV advice: Tailor your presentation to what employers are looking for now.
- Career alignment: Understand how your goals match emerging opportunities.
Tips:
- Even if we don’t have the perfect role for you today, connecting now helps us keep you in mind for future opportunities.
- Contact us or upload your CV directly on our website to stay on our radar. Let’s have a quick, no-obligation call to understand your goals.
6. Focus on What You Can Control
Rejections or no responses at all can feel personal, but often they’re not. Roles get frozen. Budgets change. Internal candidates emerge at the last minute.
What you can control is how you respond:
- Keep improving your application materials
- Prepare for interviews ahead of time
- Keep growing your network
Find out how Stroud Resourcing can support your career progression, call us on 01904 239910.
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