Now what?
You’ve tailored your CV, double-checked your cover letter, and finally hit submit. For many lawyers, this is where the uncertainty kicks in. Do you follow up? Reach out? Or just wait and hope for the best? The reality is, what you do after applying can influence whether your application gets noticed - or quietly overlooked.
Give It a Moment (But Not Too Long)
It’s tempting to follow up straight away, but timing matters. Most firms take a few days (and sometimes longer) to review applications, particularly if they’re managing multiple roles or waiting for a closing date.
As a general guide, allow around 5–7 business days before taking any action, unless the role has been flagged as urgent. In the meantime, resist the urge to sit in limbo, there are far more productive things you can be doing.
Use the Time Strategically
Rather than refreshing your inbox, use this window to deepen your understanding of the role and the team. Look into the partners, the types of matters they work on, and how your experience aligns.
This does two things. Firstly, it prepares you if a call comes through quickly. Secondly, it allows you to follow up in a way that feels informed and intentional, rather than generic.
Connect with the Right People
One of the most underutilised steps is leveraging LinkedIn, thoughtfully. If you’ve applied for a role, it’s entirely appropriate to connect with:
the hiring partner
HR or internal talent teams
A simple, considered message goes a long way. Something along the lines of:
“I’ve recently applied for X role and would love to stay connected”
This isn’t about pushing for a response, it’s about putting a face to a name and showing genuine interest in the team. When done well, and if you have a well put together LinkedIn Profile, it can help your application feel more familiar when it lands on their desk.
Follow Up (When It Makes Sense)
A well-timed follow-up can be the difference between being one of many applicants and being remembered.
Keep it short and purposeful. Reaffirm your interest, reference the role, and highlight one or two reasons you’re a strong fit. Avoid long emails or repeating your CV, the goal is to prompt, not overwhelm. An example that you can tailor to your taste is:
"Hi [Name],
I hope you’re well.
I recently applied for the [Role Title] position and just wanted to touch base to reiterate my interest. The role really stood out to me, particularly given its alignment with my experience in [insert relevant area].
By way of background, I’ve had exposure to [1–2 brief, relevant examples], which I feel would translate well to the work your team is doing.
I appreciate you’re likely very busy, but I’d welcome the opportunity to be considered and to learn more about the role if suitable.
Thanks so much for your time, and I hope to speak soon.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]"
Keep the Momentum Going
One of the biggest traps is waiting on a single application. Strong candidates keep moving, not because they’re uncertain, but because they understand that hiring timelines can be unpredictable.
Continue exploring other opportunities, having conversations, and keeping options open. It puts you in a stronger position when decisions do come through.
Don’t Overread the Silence
A lack of response doesn’t always mean a lack of interest. Firms are often balancing competing priorities, internal approvals, and multiple candidates.
That said, if you’ve followed up and still haven’t heard anything, it’s okay to mentally move forward while staying open to a response down the track.
Be Ready for Movement
Hiring processes can be slow, until they’re not. When a firm decides to progress, things can move quickly.
Make sure you’re prepared. Have your availability in mind, your referees ready, and a clear sense of your expectations. Being organised at this stage can make a significant difference.
Final Thought
Hitting “submit” isn’t the end of the process, it’s just the beginning.
The steps you take next can shape how your application is received, perceived, and ultimately progressed.
If you’re unsure how your application is landing, or want guidance on positioning yourself more effectively, feel free to reach out to the Law Staff team.
We’re always happy to help.