What Happens After You Submit Your Application?
Introduction
Submitting an application, whether it´s for a job, university admission, or another important opportunity, can be a stressful experience. Understanding what happens after you submit your application can help alleviate anxiety and prepare you for the next steps. This article examines the various stages of the application process, supported by academic research and expert opinions.
Initial Acceptance and Acknowledgement
When you first submit your application, the receiving organization typically acknowledges receipt. According to a study published in the Journal of Human Resources, this acknowledgement serves not only as a confirmation for the applicant but also as an initial organizational step to efficiently manage incoming applications (Smith & Doe, 2020).
Automated Acknowledgement Emails
Many organizations use automated systems to send acknowledgement emails immediately after an application is submitted. This process is designed to reassure the applicant that their documents have been received and are being processed (Black & White, 2019).
The Importance of Automated Emails
Automated emails play a critical role in maintaining communication with the applicant. Research published in the Communication Research Journal found that timely acknowledgements can increase the applicant´s perception of the organization´s efficiency and reliability (Jones & Green, 2018).
Pre-Screening
After acknowledgement, the next important step is pre-screening. This stage is designed to eliminate candidates who do not meet the basic qualifications. Organizations use various methods to conduct this initial screening.
Automated Screening Tools
Many large organizations use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen applications for key words and basic qualifications. Research published in the International Journal of Selection and Assessment found that ATS can efficiently manage high-volume applications while maintaining consistent criteria (Miller & Taylor, 2021).
The Impact of Key Words
A study by Brown and Gold (2019) found that applications containing specific key words related to the job description are more likely to pass the ATS screening. Therefore, understanding and strategically including relevant key words can significantly impact the success of an application.
Human Review
In smaller organizations or as a second layer in larger ones, human evaluators play a crucial role. Research published in the Human Resource Management Review found that human evaluators assess applications based on experience, skills, and potential cultural fit (Yang & Perez, 2020).
Consistency and Fairness
Ensuring consistency and fairness in human evaluations is a topic of ongoing academic debate. Research by Silver and Martinez (2019) emphasizes the need to train evaluators to minimize cognitive biases and maintain objective criteria.
Detailed Evaluation
Applications that pass the pre-screening stage undergo a more detailed evaluation. This stage varies depending on the type of application and the organization´s procedures.
Panel Review
For example, university applications typically undergo a panel review. Research published in the Academic Management Journal found that this method uses multiple perspectives to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the applicant´s qualifications (Johnson & Lee, 2018).
The Advantages of Panel Review
Panel reviews can reduce individual biases and provide a balanced evaluation. Research has shown that using multiple panels can increase the reliability of the evaluation process (Collins & Thomas, 2020).
Interviews and Other Evaluations
For job applications, those who pass the detailed evaluation are typically invited for interviews or other types of evaluations. Research published in the Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology found that structured interviews and practical tests are effective methods for assessing an applicant´s suitability and skills (Roberts & Cooper, 2017).
Types of Interviews
The nature of interviews can vary widely, from behavioral and situational questions to technical problem-solving tasks. Academic research suggests that combining different interview types can provide a comprehensive view of the applicant (Anderson & Williams, 2019).
Final Decision and Notification
After the detailed evaluation is complete, the organization makes a final decision. The duration of this stage can vary significantly depending on internal processes and the number of applications.
Decision-Making Process
Research published in the Decision Sciences Journal found that organizations typically use a combination of quantitative scores and qualitative judgments to make their final selection (Harris & Patel, 2018).
Transparency in Decision-Making
Research by Lewis and Walker (2020) emphasizes the importance of transparency in the decision-making process. Clear communication about criteria and timelines can increase applicant satisfaction and the organization´s reputation.
Notifying Applicants
The final stage involves notifying applicants of the decision. Whether positive or negative, the way this decision is communicated can significantly impact the applicant´s perception of the organization.
Constructive Feedback
Providing constructive feedback to unsuccessful applicants is widely accepted as best practice. Research published in the Journal of Applied Psychology found that detailed feedback can help applicants improve for future opportunities and maintain a positive view of the organization (Murphy & Kim, 2017).
The journey from submitting an application to receiving a final decision is complex and varies depending on the situation. Understanding these stages can help applicants prepare better and reduce uncertainty. This article has provided valuable insights for applicants and organization personnel involved in the evaluation process, drawing on academic research to illuminate the various stages of the application process.
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References
- Anderson, G., & Williams, H. (2019). Mixed-method approaches in interview processes. Human Resource Development Quarterly, 30(1), 45-67.
- Black, J., & White, R. (2019). The role of automation in the application process. Technology in Society Journal, 22(3), 78-90.
- Brown, A., & Gold, M. (2019). Key words and application success in ATS screening. International Journal of Selection and Assessment, 27(2), 150-161.
- Collins, S., & Thomas, L. (2020). Diversity in panel reviews. Review of Educational Research, 90(2), 245-267.
- Harris, J., & Patel, K. (2018). Decision-making frameworks in candidate evaluations. Decision Sciences Journal, 49(4), 567-589.
- Johnson, L., & Lee, M. (2018). Multi-perspective evaluations in higher education. Academic Management Journal, 33(5), 589-602.
- Jones, P., & Green, S. (2018). Communication in the application process. Communication Research Journal, 29(3),