Picture this: You happen to encounter a recruiter or hiring manager at a job fair, alumni event or even within a social situation. You are very familiar with the company and know that your skills would be a great fit. You inquire if he/she has any suggestions for getting an interview or the best way that you can apply.

The answer: "You can apply on our website at www....".

Huh? Did the person think you were not aware of the website? That you did not know that an online application can feel like sending a message into a black hole never to heard from again? Does he or she want you to waste your time filling out pages and pages of information for an ATS that will never be read? Or does he or she want you to just buzz off?

Not necessarily but maybe.

Telling you to go to the website and apply can be a convenient way to get rid of you. Maybe you are asking too many questions or being too aggressive. You may not have established enough of a relationship or proven yourself yet to be in the position to ask for anything. In some cases, this person could refer you for a job but is choosing not to.

But... in some cases, the Resume must go through the Applicant Tracking systems.

Some examples:

1. In academia, there is a formal hiring process done by a committee and you can't just hand in a resume.

3. Huge corporations do need you in the applicant tracking system before anything can be done.

So, what can you do about all of this? Have a simple Follow up response:

"Thank you so much. I do regularly check the website for appropriate job listings. As you know, your company is very popular and I am afraid that the resume might not be seen. Would it be a good idea to follow up with someone once I've sent it? What would you suggest?"

He or she may have no further suggestions but the person may give you some additionally clarity into the process, give you a name to follow up with or even give you his or her own card for follow up.

Image. Katie Lips. Swat