From knowing about job openings the moment they post to following up promptly after an interview, being strategic about timing can make the difference between missing out on an opportunity and being hired. Mike Caldwell, executive director of TCU’s Center for Career & Professional Development, shared insights on how to stay a step ahead in the job search.

How can I improve my timing as a job applicant?

Organizations that you really want to work with — sign up for their email alerts, set up a profile, get job announcements sent to you so that you don’t miss the timing of new jobs. Government jobs will open in a window; it will open for 48 hours, and then it will close. Prioritize the jobs that you know have been posted recently. Some of my colleagues are hearing from employers that, because of the rise of AI bots applying to jobs on behalf of people, employers are capping the number of applicants.

What do successful candidates do after turning in their applications?

Find out if you have a contact within the organization — maybe it’s a TCU alum — and let that person know that you’ve applied; that can help you stand out as a candidate. You’re reaching out to find some insights about the company or the organization, asking if your contact has any additional advice. If the position has a closing date, pay attention to that as well. If it closed and you haven’t heard anything back, prioritize your new applications to other roles. You might hear back still, but maybe that means you weren’t selected in the first round.

After an interview, how soon should you send a thank-you note?

Immediately — that day. You could be the first interviewee; you could be the last interviewee. It shows that you’re conscious of time and that you’re motivated to follow up in a timely manner. It can really help set you apart. It used to be handwritten letters; if you’re interviewing on-site, a lot of applicants hand a thank-you note to the person at the front desk as they’re going out the door. That way, you’re still making that handwritten, personalized connection.

If you don’t have that opportunity, follow up with an email; you might want to write a draft, save it, have it ready to go.

If the timing isn’t right at a company that you want to work for, how can you forge a relationship for when the timing might be better?

Not giving up, being persistent but not overly aggressive — just demonstrating your interest can really go a long way. If you miss out on an opportunity, you might be frustrated. But there might have been a better candidate in that circumstance; the next job, you might be the best candidate for that role. If you receive the rejection notice, thank them for their time. It really goes a long way if someone reaches out and says, “Thanks for letting me know. If there’s an opportunity in the future, I’d still love to work at your organization.”

 — As told to Laura Samuel Meyn