Getting on a waitlist can feel like a step in the right direction, but sometimes it's not enough to simply be placed on it. To increase your chances of moving off that waitlist and into your desired spot, a well-crafted follow-up can make all the difference. This guide will walk you through exactly how to write a waitlist follow up letter that stands out.
The Art of a Stellar Waitlist Follow Up
When you're navigating the often-uncertain waters of a waitlist, knowing how to communicate effectively is key. A compelling waitlist follow up letter demonstrates continued interest and can subtly remind those reviewing applications of your qualifications. The importance of a well-written follow-up cannot be overstated ; it can be the deciding factor between remaining on the waitlist and securing your spot.
To craft an effective follow-up, consider these elements:
- Reiterate your strong interest in the opportunity.
- Highlight any new achievements or experiences since your initial application.
- Maintain a polite and professional tone.
- Keep it concise and to the point.
Here’s a breakdown of what makes a great follow-up:
- Subject Line: Make it clear and easy to identify. Something like "Waitlist Follow Up - [Your Name] - [Application ID/Program]" is ideal.
- Opening: Briefly remind them of your original application and your current position on the waitlist.
- Body: This is where you can add value. Think about what has changed since you applied. Did you complete a project? Receive an award? Learn a new skill relevant to the opportunity?
- Closing: Reiterate your enthusiasm and thank them for their time and consideration.
Sometimes, presenting information in a clear, organized way is best. Consider how you might use a table to highlight key updates:
| Area of Update | Details |
|---|---|
| Academic Achievement | Completed advanced calculus course with an A. |
| Extracurricular Involvement | Assumed leadership role as Treasurer of the debate club. |
How to Write a Waitlist Follow Up Letter When You Have New Achievements
Subject: Waitlist Follow Up - [Your Name] - [Application ID] Dear [Admissions Committee/Hiring Manager Name], I am writing to follow up on my application for the [Program Name/Position] and to reiterate my strong interest. I was pleased to be placed on the waitlist and continue to be very enthusiastic about the prospect of joining [Institution/Company Name]. Since submitting my initial application, I have had several achievements that I believe further demonstrate my suitability for this opportunity. I recently [mention a specific achievement, e.g., "successfully completed a challenging research project on X, which resulted in Y outcome," or "received the 'Excellence in Leadership' award for my work with Z organization"]. I have also [mention another relevant achievement or skill development, e.g., "achieved a perfect score on my recent [relevant exam]," or "gained proficiency in [new software/skill]"]. I am confident that these experiences, coupled with my existing qualifications, would allow me to make a significant contribution to your [program/team]. I remain incredibly eager to be a part of [Institution/Company Name] and am available at your earliest convenience for an interview or to provide any further information you may require. Thank you for your continued consideration. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Contact Information]How to Write a Waitlist Follow Up Letter to Express Renewed Enthusiasm
Subject: Renewed Interest - Waitlist Inquiry - [Your Name] Dear [Admissions Committee/Hiring Manager Name], I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to you today to express my continued and very strong interest in the [Program Name/Position] at [Institution/Company Name]. I was delighted to learn that I have been placed on the waitlist, and I remain exceptionally eager about the possibility of becoming a member of your [program/team]. The [program/company]’s commitment to [mention a specific value or aspect you admire, e.g., "innovation in sustainable technology," or "fostering a collaborative learning environment"] is something that deeply resonates with me, and I believe my [mention a relevant skill or quality, e.g., "dedication to problem-solving," or "passion for community engagement"] would be a valuable asset. I understand that waitlist decisions can take time, and I want to assure you that my enthusiasm for this opportunity has only grown. I am actively following [mention a recent development or news from the institution/company] and am even more convinced that this is the ideal place for me to [mention your goals, e.g., "further my academic pursuits," or "develop my career"]. Thank you for keeping my application under consideration. I look forward to any updates you may have. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Contact Information]How to Write a Waitlist Follow Up Letter After a Significant Time Lapse
Subject: Waitlist Status Update - [Your Name] - [Application ID] Dear [Admissions Committee/Hiring Manager Name], It has been some time since my initial application for the [Program Name/Position] at [Institution/Company Name], and I am writing to respectfully inquire about the status of the waitlist. I understand that the admissions/hiring process can be lengthy, and I wanted to reconfirm my strong interest in this opportunity. Since my application, I have continued to [mention ongoing relevant activity, e.g., "pursue my studies in [relevant field]," or "work diligently in my current role"]. I remain very impressed by [mention a specific aspect of the institution/company, e.g., "the groundbreaking research being conducted by your faculty," or "the company's recent success in [project/market]"]. I am still very keen to contribute to your [program/team] and believe that my skills in [mention 1-2 key skills] would be a good fit for the challenges and opportunities at [Institution/Company Name]. Thank you for your time and for considering my continued interest. I would be grateful for any information you can provide regarding the waitlist. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Contact Information]How to Write a Waitlist Follow Up Letter Addressing a Minor Concern
Subject: Waitlist Follow Up & Clarification - [Your Name] - [Application ID] Dear [Admissions Committee/Hiring Manager Name], I am writing to follow up on my application for the [Program Name/Position] and to respectfully offer a brief clarification regarding [mention the specific area, e.g., "a discrepancy in my submitted transcript," or "an omission in my extracurricular activities list"]. I understand the importance of accurate information in the application process and wanted to proactively address this. Upon reviewing my submitted documents, I realized that [explain the minor concern clearly and concisely, e.g., "the older transcript for [course name] may not have reflected my most recent grade," or "I inadvertently forgot to mention my involvement in the [club/activity]"]. I have attached the corrected/updated document [or explain how they can access the updated information] for your review. My interest in the [program/position] remains exceptionally high, and I am confident that this clarification does not detract from my qualifications. I am eager to demonstrate my commitment and capabilities to [Institution/Company Name]. Thank you for your understanding and for your continued consideration. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Contact Information]How to Write a Waitlist Follow Up Letter After Receiving Another Offer
Subject: Waitlist Update & Decision - [Your Name] - [Application ID] Dear [Admissions Committee/Hiring Manager Name], I am writing to follow up on my application for the [Program Name/Position] at [Institution/Company Name]. I remain very interested in this opportunity and was pleased to be placed on the waitlist. In the meantime, I have received another offer for [mention the other opportunity, e.g., "a similar program at [another institution]," or "a position at [another company]"]. While I am grateful for this offer, my preference remains with [Institution/Company Name] due to [mention a specific reason, e.g., "its renowned [specific department/research area]," or "its strong focus on [specific industry/skill]"]. I would appreciate it if you could provide an update on my waitlist status, as I need to respond to the other offer by [mention the deadline, e.g., "the end of next week"]. If there is a possibility of an opening at [Institution/Company Name], I would be delighted to consider it. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Contact Information]How to Write a Waitlist Follow Up Letter to Decline an Offer (but keep the door open)
Subject: Waitlist Status - [Your Name] - [Application ID] Dear [Admissions Committee/Hiring Manager Name], I am writing to provide an update on my application for the [Program Name/Position] at [Institution/Company Name]. I was recently offered a position in [mention the other opportunity], which I have decided to accept. While I am excited about this new direction, I want to express my sincere gratitude for the opportunity to have been considered for the [program/position] at [Institution/Company Name]. I was particularly impressed by [mention a specific positive aspect, e.g., "the innovative curriculum," or "the strong sense of community"]. I understand that my circumstances have changed, and I will therefore be removing myself from the waitlist. However, I wish to thank you again for your time and consideration. I have a great deal of respect for [Institution/Company Name] and would welcome the opportunity to connect in the future should our paths cross again. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Contact Information]How to Write a Waitlist Follow Up Letter After an Interview
Subject: Following Up - Waitlist Status - [Your Name] - [Application ID] Dear [Admissions Committee/Hiring Manager Name], I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to follow up on my application for the [Program Name/Position] and to express my continued enthusiasm after our interview on [Date of Interview]. I truly enjoyed our conversation about [mention a specific topic discussed] and learned even more about what makes the [program/company] such a special place. My time spent discussing the role and meeting with [mention interviewer's name(s) if applicable] further solidified my belief that my skills in [mention 1-2 key skills] and my passion for [mention relevant interest] would be a strong asset to your team. I am still very eager to contribute to the [program/company] and believe I would thrive in this environment. I understand that you are still reviewing candidates for the waitlist. I wanted to reiterate my strong interest and to let you know that I remain available should any openings become available. Thank you for your time and for considering my continued interest. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Contact Information]How to Write a Waitlist Follow Up Letter Asking for Feedback
Subject: Waitlist Follow Up & Feedback Request - [Your Name] - [Application ID] Dear [Admissions Committee/Hiring Manager Name], I am writing to follow up on my application for the [Program Name/Position] at [Institution/Company Name]. I was placed on the waitlist and continue to be very interested in this opportunity. While I understand that decisions are still being made, I would be incredibly grateful if you could offer any brief feedback on my application. I am always looking for ways to improve, and any insights you might be able to provide regarding areas where I could strengthen my profile for future opportunities would be highly valued. I remain very enthusiastic about [Institution/Company Name] and the prospect of contributing to your [program/team]. Thank you for your time and for considering my request. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Contact Information]In conclusion, a well-timed and thoughtfully written waitlist follow up letter is a powerful tool that can significantly improve your chances of success. By reiterating your interest, highlighting new achievements, and maintaining a professional demeanor, you can make a memorable impression and potentially move off that waitlist into your desired opportunity.