Understanding Application Status Terms
Job application statuses can vary between companies, but they often follow similar patterns.
Knowing what different terms mean helps you track your progress through the hiring process.
Common Application Statuses
When you submit a job application, you’ll typically see various status updates.
These may include:
- Applied
- Received
- Under Review
- Interviewing
- In Progress
- Pending
Each status provides insight into where you stand in the hiring process.
Understanding these terms can help manage your expectations and decide if you should follow up.
Status: Applied and Received
“Applied” means you’ve successfully submitted your application.
This is the first step in the process.
You may see this status immediately after applying.
“Received” indicates the employer has acknowledged your application.
It’s often an automated response.
This status doesn’t necessarily mean a human has reviewed your materials yet.
Status: Under Review and Interviewing
“Under Review” suggests your application is being evaluated.
Hiring managers or recruiters are likely examining your qualifications at this stage.
“Interviewing” means you’ve progressed to the next phase.
The company is actively considering you for the position.
This status may appear after you’ve completed initial interviews.
Status: In Progress and Pending
“In Progress” typically indicates active movement on your application.
The hiring team may be conducting background checks or contacting references.
“Pending” can mean different things depending on the employer.
It might indicate they’re waiting on something specific, like additional documents from you.
It could also mean they’re finalizing a decision.
These statuses aren’t always linear.
You might move back and forth between them as the hiring process unfolds.
The Hiring Process Explained
The hiring process typically involves several key stages that candidates navigate as they seek employment.
From initial screening to final selection, each step plays a crucial role in determining the best fit for a position.
Initial Application Screening
When you submit your application, it enters a pool of candidates vying for the same position.
HR professionals or hiring managers review resumes and cover letters to identify qualified applicants.
They look for relevant skills, experience, and qualifications that match the job requirements.
Key factors considered during this stage:
- Education and certifications
- Work history and accomplishments
- Specific skills and competencies
- Cultural fit indicators
If your application passes this initial screening, you’ll move forward to the next phase of the process.
Interviews and Assessments
Once selected for further consideration, you’ll likely participate in one or more interviews.
These may include:
- Phone screenings
- Video interviews
- In-person meetings
During interviews, you’ll discuss your qualifications, experience, and career goals.
Employers often use behavioral questions to assess how you’ve handled situations in the past.
Many companies incorporate additional assessments:
- Skills tests
- Personality evaluations
- Work simulations
These tools help employers gauge your abilities and potential fit within the organization.
Final Deliberation and Selection
After completing interviews and assessments, the hiring team deliberates to choose the best candidate.
They compare notes, discuss impressions, and weigh the strengths of each applicant.
Factors influencing the final decision:
- Interview performance
- Skills and experience alignment
- Cultural fit and team dynamics
- References and background checks
Once a primary candidate is selected, an offer is extended.
If accepted, the hiring process concludes.
If declined, an alternate candidate may be considered.
Interpreting Post-Interview Application Status
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After your interview, the application status can provide valuable insights into where you stand in the hiring process.
Understanding these statuses helps manage expectations and plan next steps.
Being a Primary or Alternate Candidate
As a primary candidate, you’re at the top of the employer’s list.
This status suggests you’ve made a strong impression and are likely to receive an offer if background checks and references are satisfactory.
Your qualifications closely align with the job requirements.
Being an alternate candidate means you’re still in the running, but not the first choice.
The employer sees potential in you but may have concerns or prefer another candidate slightly more.
Stay prepared for a possible offer if the primary candidate declines or doesn’t work out.
What ‘Under Consideration’ Really Means
‘Under consideration’ indicates you’re still in contention for the role.
The hiring team is evaluating all candidates and hasn’t made a final decision.
This status can last days or weeks, depending on the company’s hiring process.
During this time, the employer may be:
- Interviewing other candidates
- Conducting reference checks
- Discussing budget constraints
- Finalizing job details
Stay patient but proactive.
A follow-up email showing continued interest can keep you on the employer’s radar without seeming pushy.
Outcomes of the Application Process
The application process can result in several different outcomes for job seekers and employers.
These outcomes impact both parties and shape the next steps in their professional journeys.
Offer Extended and Declined Applications
When your application impresses the employer, you may receive a job offer.
This exciting outcome means you’ve successfully navigated the selection process.
If offered a position, carefully review the terms and consider negotiating salary or benefits if needed.
Not all applications lead to offers.
You might receive a decline notification if the employer chooses other candidates.
While disappointing, this outcome allows you to refocus your job search efforts.
Request feedback when possible to improve future applications.
Some employers may place you on a waitlist or consider you for future openings.
Stay in touch professionally if you remain interested in the company.
Withdrawing an Application
You might decide to withdraw your application during the hiring process.
This can happen if you accept another job offer, change your career goals, or realize the position isn’t a good fit.
To withdraw professionally:
- Contact the employer promptly
- Express gratitude for their time
- Briefly explain your decision (optional)
- Maintain a positive tone
Withdrawing gracefully keeps doors open for future opportunities with the company.
Completed, Closed, and Withdrawn Positions
Sometimes, the hiring process concludes without a hire.
Employers may mark positions as “completed” after filling the role or “closed” if they decide not to proceed.
Reasons for position withdrawal include:
- Budget changes
- Restructuring
- Internal candidate selection
- Shift in business needs
If a position you applied for is withdrawn, don’t take it personally.
Continue your job search and stay open to new opportunities.
Employers may reopen the position later or have similar roles available.
Effective Communication with Applicants
Clear and timely communication is essential during the job application process.
Keeping applicants informed about their status helps maintain a positive candidate experience and reflects well on your organization.
Importance of Clear Status Updates
Regular status updates show respect for applicants’ time and effort.
You should notify candidates promptly when their application is received, reviewed, and moved to the next stage.
Be specific about timeframes and next steps to manage expectations.
Use clear, jargon-free language in your communications.
Avoid vague phrases like “under review” without context.
Instead, provide concrete information: “Your application is being evaluated by the hiring manager.
We expect to schedule interviews within two weeks.”
Personalize messages when possible to make applicants feel valued.
Address them by name and reference specific details from their application or resume.
Role of Application Tracking Systems
Modern Application Tracking Systems (ATS) streamline communication with applicants.
These tools automate status updates, ensuring candidates stay informed throughout the process.
You can set up customized email templates for different stages of the application journey.
Many ATS platforms, such as Workday and Handshake, offer candidate portals.
These allow applicants to check their status in real-time, reducing the need for manual follow-ups.
Encourage candidates to use these self-service options.
Configure your ATS to send timely reminders about pending tasks or upcoming interviews.
This helps keep the hiring process on track and demonstrates your organization’s efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Job seekers often have questions about the application review process.
Understanding what different statuses mean and what to expect can help ease anxiety during the job search.
What does it mean when a job application status indicates it’s being reviewed?
When your application status shows as “being reviewed,” it means the employer is actively evaluating your qualifications.
This typically involves hiring managers or HR personnel examining your resume, cover letter, and other submitted materials.
How long does the application review process typically take?
The review process duration varies widely depending on the company and position.
It can range from a few days to several weeks.
Factors like the number of applicants and urgency to fill the role influence the timeline.
Is being ‘under review’ indicative of a certain stage in the hiring process?
Being “under review” usually signifies you’ve passed initial screening.
Your application has caught the employer’s attention, and they’re considering you for further steps like interviews or assessments.
What should a candidate expect after their application is reviewed?
After review, you may receive an invitation for an interview, a request for additional information, or a notification that you’re not moving forward.
Some employers may also place promising candidates on hold for future opportunities.
Are candidates notified if their application has been rejected during the review phase?
Many companies notify rejected candidates, but practices vary.
Some may only contact those moving forward.
If you haven’t heard back after a few weeks, you can politely inquire about your application status.
Does a change in application status to ‘reviewed’ imply an imminent hiring decision?
A “reviewed” status doesn’t guarantee an imminent decision.
It simply means your application has been assessed.
The hiring process may involve multiple review stages before a final decision is reached.