Top Reasons to Reach Out After You Apply

A thoughtful, low-pressure follow-up can make a huge difference in your job search. Here’s why reaching out is so powerful—and how it benefits you:

1. You Stand Out

Let’s be honest: most applicants don’t follow up. In fact, the bar is low. The simple act of reaching out—professionally and respectfully—immediately sets you apart from dozens (or even hundreds) of other candidates.
It signals interest, initiative, and professionalism. You’re not just applying and disappearing into the void. You’re showing that you care about the role and are taking ownership of your career.

2. You Build Trust

When someone receives a thoughtful message from a real person who has taken the time to engage, it builds instant credibility.
You’re no longer just another bullet-point list on a resume. You become a real person with clarity, confidence, and a genuine desire to contribute. In fields like biostatistics, where collaboration and communication are key, this presence is crucial and will stick with hiring managers.

3. You Get Insider Info

The job description only tells part of the story.
When you connect with someone on the team—or even with someone adjacent to it—you can gain valuable insights into what really matters to the hiring manager. You’ll learn about immediate challenges they’re facing, the type of candidate who would thrive, and sometimes even get intel on the hiring timeline, team structure, or where they are in the process. This kind of information can help you prepare better and stay engaged with the hiring process.

4. You Create Referral Potential

This is where the real magic happens.
A thoughtful message or casual conversation might not lead to an immediate job offer—but it could lead to someone remembering you down the line. You may get a referral, an introduction, or even just a passing mention: “Hey, I talked to this great candidate who might be a perfect fit.”
Referrals don’t always come from best friends or former coworkers. Sometimes, they start with a single, well-timed conversation.

5. You Grow Your Network

Even if this particular role isn’t the right fit—or doesn’t pan out—you’ve still made a new connection in your field.
That connection could point you toward another opportunity, keep you in mind six months from now, or introduce you to someone else who’s looking for exactly your skill set.
Follow-up isn’t just about securing this job; it’s about playing the long game and growing your career network.

TL;DR

Reaching out after you apply is low risk, high return.
It helps people remember you, trust you, and advocate for you. Even if nothing comes of it immediately, the relationship you spark now could open doors later.

So, yes—send the message. Start the conversation. It’s always worth it.

💡 Action Step: Don’t Skip This Step—Reach Out
Biostatisticians are often more introverted by nature, and it can feel intimidating to reach out after applying. But trust me—this step can have a huge impact.

• Don’t skip the follow-up. Craft a short, respectful message to someone on the hiring team or in the department.

• Focus on building rapport—not asking for the job. Highlight something specific about the team or the company, and ask a thoughtful question.

• Push through any hesitation. The effort will help you stand out, build trust, and open doors for future opportunities—even if nothing happens immediately.

It may feel uncomfortable, but this small act of reaching out could be the game-changer that gets you noticed.