Navigating the job application process and getting your career off the ground can be tricky, especially if you’re uncertain whether a position you’re interested in is still open. To make matters worse, the labor market is pretty tight right now, with unemployment remaining low at around 4.1% for the month of October. As for total job openings, they’ve actually declined slightly over the past year, down 1.9 million from last September and now sitting around 7.4 million total openings. 

In a tough market, any little things you can do to get an edge is worth considering. Asking about the status of a job shows initiative and keeps you informed about potential opportunities. Here’s how to inquire respectfully and professionally.  

Research First  

Before reaching out, check the company’s website and job posting platforms to confirm whether the position is still listed. Some organizations update their listings regularly, while others may leave old posts online. If the role has been removed or marked as filled, it may no longer be available.  

Choose The Right Contact Method  

If the job is still listed but unclear, reaching out to the right person can make all the difference. Use the contact details provided in the job posting, or search for the hiring manager or recruiter on platforms like LinkedIn. Sending an email is often the most professional approach, as it provides a written record and allows the recipient to respond at their convenience.  

Craft A Polite And Direct Inquiry  

Similar to writing a cover letter, your message should be concise and courteous. Start with a brief introduction, mentioning the position you’re inquiring about and where you found it. For example:  

“Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],  

I hope this message finds you well. I recently came across the posting for the [Job Title] position on [Platform/Website] and wanted to confirm if the role is still available. I’m very interested in the opportunity and would love to learn more about the application process. Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you.”  

Consider that hiring managers receive dozens, if not hundreds of applications and emails every day. There’s a chance that upon asking if a job is still available, you will not hear anything back at all. If you don’t get a reply, it’s best to not put all of your eggs into this opening’s basket and assume that it’s no longer available.

Follow Up Appropriately  

If you don’t hear back within a week, it’s sometimes acceptable to send a polite follow-up. Keep your tone professional and avoid coming across as impatient. For example:  

“Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],  

I’m following up on my previous message regarding the [Job Title] position. I understand you may be busy, but I wanted to reiterate my interest in the role. Please let me know if there are any updates or additional steps I can take. Thank you again for your time.”  

If you’re still met with radio silence, it’s best to consider this job closed and move on.

Why Asking Is Important  

Inquiring about a job’s availability demonstrates enthusiasm and a proactive nature, traits that employers value. It also provides clarity, saving you time and effort if the position has already been filled. Even if the role is no longer available, your professionalism may leave a positive impression, opening the door to future opportunities with the company.  

Reaching out tactfully and confidently can set you apart as a serious candidate, showing that you’re not just waiting passively but actively pursuing your career goals.