Submitting a job application is an important step in the hiring process. However, after submitting an application, you may realize you made a mistake or want to update your materials. So, can you edit a job application after submitting it? The short answer is maybe. Here is a detailed look at whether and how you can update a submitted job application.
Changing Contact Information
If you notice an error in your contact information after submitting a job application, it is important to correct it as soon as possible. Simple mistakes in your name, phone number, or email address can prevent the employer from reaching out to you about an interview. Most online job applications allow you to log back into your account and edit basic contact information. If you submitted a paper application, contact the company’s HR department to provide updated contact details.
Updating Your Resume or Cover Letter
If you want to update your actual resume or cover letter attached to a submitted application, the process depends on how you applied:
- Online application portals: Most portals do not allow you to replace resume or cover letter files after submitting. However, some may allow you to delete the old files and upload new ones.
- Email applications: If you emailed your application directly, simply email the new documents to the hiring manager or HR representative.
- Paper applications: You likely cannot edit paper applications after submission. You would need to reapply with new materials.
If the employer has already viewed your original application, it is better to leave it as is and explain any changes you want to make in your interview.
Adding Information to the Application
While you cannot always swap out full documents, you may be able to add information to a submitted application:
- Online portals – Some include optional fields or sections where you can add more details about your work history, skills, education, etc.
- Email applications – Follow up your original email with an additional email providing supplemental information.
- Paper applications – Unless specified, you cannot easily add information after submission.
Use your best judgment on whether adding information post-submission is beneficial or overwhelming for the employer. Introducing many new details could dilute your original application.
Withdrawing an Application
If you decide you are no longer interested in the role or company you applied to, you can withdraw your application by:
- Emailing the hiring manager or HR rep and asking them to disregard your application.
- Logging into an online portal and seeing if there is an option to withdraw your application.
- Calling the company to verbally withdraw if needed.
Withdrawing is generally only done before interviews start. Once you are in the interview process, see it through or politely decline any future interviews.
Asking the Company About Making Changes
If you are unsure if you can update your application materials or want to add information, it never hurts to ask. Contact the company’s HR department or your interviewer, explain what you want to change, and see if they will allow it. This ensures you follow proper protocol.
Here is a sample email you can adapt:
Dear [hiring manager],
Thank you for accepting my recent [job title] application. After reviewing my materials, I realized I left an important detail off my resume. Would it be possible to submit an updated resume that includes my experience with [skill]? Please let me know the proper process for making this change. I look forward to hearing from you.
Thank you,
[Your name]
When You Cannot Update Your Application
If you are unable to update your resume, cover letter, or other application materials, do not panic. You will still have other opportunities to provide the missing information or highlight important qualifications:
- Interview – Use the interview to expand on your background, skills, and experience verbally.
- Thank you email – Follow up your interview by emailing any crucial points you did not get to make.
- Job offer negotiation – When negotiating an offer, reiterate why you are qualified for the role.
While you may not be able to edit a submitted job application, following up diligently can still get key details about your candidacy to the hiring team when needed.
Should You Reapply to the Same Job?
If you are unable to update your application materials for a job post that is still open, you may be tempted to simply reapply with new documents. However, this is rarely recommended. Sending multiple applications can appear disorganized to employers and may work against you. Only reapply for the same job if:
- You withdrew your original application then had a major change, like gaining a new qualification.
- The employer directly instructs candidates to reapply after a certain period of time.
- The job has been reposted and the previous listing is closed.
Otherwise, look for chances to provide updated information to support your existing application when possible.
Key Takeaways
Here are some key points to remember when updating a submitted job application:
- You can typically edit contact information and small application details.
- Do not resend full documents unless the employer approves.
- Use interviews and follow up emails to update your qualifications.
- Withdraw an application if your interest changes.
- Avoid reapplying for the same open job listing.
Conclusion
While submitted applications are generally static, you do have some options to make changes. Pay close attention when applying to see if the employer allows document changes or additions. If not, leverage the interview and follow up communications to update your candidacy details. With a combination of diligence and flexibility, you can ensure the hiring team sees your most accurate and compelling application information.
Application Method | Edit Contact Info | Change Resume/Cover Letter | Add More Details |
---|---|---|---|
Online Portal | Usually Allowed | Sometimes Allowed | Often Allowed |
Resend with edits | Resend new docs | Follow up email | |
Paper | Contact company | Likely not allowed | Likely not allowed |
This table summarizes how feasible it is to change parts of your job application after submitting based on the method used.
Can You Edit Cover Letter After Submitting?
Updating your cover letter after submitting an application can be tricky. Most online portals do not allow you to replace cover letter files. For email applications, you can send a new cover letter document, but the employer may prefer you do not. Unless specified, avoid sending multiple cover letter versions.
Can You Edit Resume After Submitting?
As with cover letters, replacing an already submitted resume is often not possible. Online portals rarely have a way to delete and reupload resumes. Even for email applications, reviewers may frown on candidates sending unprompted new resumes. Use your interview to update key details instead.
Should You Notify Employer of Application Changes?
If you are able to update part of your submitted application, it is best to notify the employer. For small changes like contact information, simply note it in the submission portal or a follow up email. For larger changes, explain what you want to modify and ask if they will allow it before sending new materials.
How Do You Withdraw a Job Application?
Withdrawing a submitted application stops your candidacy for the role. First see if the online portal, hiring manager, or HR department has guidance on proper withdrawal process. If not, send a polite email asking for your application to be withdrawn from consideration for the job.
Can You Reapply for Same Job Posting?
Generally avoid reapplying to a job you already applied to, even if you want to submit updated materials. Duplicate applications often frustrate recruiters. Only reapply if you withdrew your previous application or the employer specifically invites reapplicants.
What If Application Closed After Submission?
If a job listing closes after you submit an application, you likely cannot edit your materials further. However, you are still under consideration. Use the interview and follow ups to provide updated details to support your existing application.
How Should You Handle a Mistake After Job Application Submission?
Here are tips for handling common mistakes noticed post-submission:
- Wrong contact info – Update ASAP in the portal or via email.
- Spelling errors – Explain briefly in interview; don’t resend docs.
- Left off experience – Verbally highlight in interview.
- Wrong job title – Clarify your official title in follow up communications.
- Submitted before finalizing – If portal closed, explain situation and highlight full qualifications in interview.
Focus any application changes on facts like titles and contact info. For other errors, use your interview wisely rather than trying to re-submit documentation.
Mistakes to Avoid When Trying to Update Your Application
As you try to make changes after submitting an application, keep these mistakes in mind:
- Resubmitting full application without asking – Do not resend unless the employer approves.
- Withdrawing then reapplying same day – This often annoys recruiters; only reapply later if qualifications change.
- Sending many follow up emails with changes – Funnel updates into one follow up email or interview.
- Reapplying after rejection – Move on and apply to new openings with this employer.
- Updating without explaining why – Brief reason helps employer understand application changes.
Ask first, consolidate your updates, and do not bombard the employer to avoid common post-submission mistakes.
Alternatives to Editing Existing Job Application
If you cannot edit your submitted job application, alternatives include:
- Mention key updates in job interview responses.
- Send a follow up email after the interview highlighting information you want the employer to know.
- Bring updated resume copies when you interview in person.
- Discuss desired application improvements when negotiating a job offer.
- Apply again later if the job reposts and you then meet qualifications you previously lacked.
With some strategic communication, you can still convey recent experience, skills gained, higher education, or other important updates without re-submitting your full application.
What to Do If Job Requires Application Editing?
Some employers and online portals allow candidates to revise submitted applications prior to the closing date. If edits are encouraged, take advantage by:
- Correcting any erroneous information.
- Adding additional experience or achievements not originally included.
- Reviewing and polishing your submissions for spelling, grammar, formatting.
- Customizing your documents further for the position.
- Ensuring your application is as strong as possible before review.
Application editing privileges are rare – when allowed, polish your materials to put your best foot forward and stand out.
Pro Tips for Submitting an Accurate Job Application
While mistakes happen, you can improve accuracy from the start by:
- Carefully proofreading all documents before submitting.
- Using current resume and cover letter templates you can easily update.
- Keeping application contact info handy so it’s error-free.
- Saving copies of any online submissions for reference.
- Taking your time filling in details; don’t rush.
- Asking someone to review your application before final submission.
Being organized and diligent when initially applying can minimize the need for edits down the road. But when post-submission changes are needed, follow up professionally to provide key updates about your qualifications.