5 Great Incomplete Application Email Templates To Copy & Paste

It's always a bit of a puzzle when a promising candidate doesn't complete their application. Often, a simple, well-timed email is all it takes to bring them back to finish the process.

Relying on a template removes the guesswork and helps you craft a clear, effective message quickly. Here are five different types of incomplete application emails you can adapt for your own workflow.

Tips for Writing Incomplete Application Emails

• Keep it short and sweet. Your candidate already knows who you are. Skip the long introductions and get right to the point. A clear subject line like "Finish your application for [Job Title]" is often all you need.
• Provide a direct link. Don't make them hunt for the application page again. Include a prominent button or link that takes them exactly where they left off. The less friction, the better.
• Offer a helping hand. Technical issues or confusing questions can stop an application in its tracks. Let them know they can reply directly to the email for support. It shows you're there to help, not just to nudge.
• Create a gentle sense of urgency. Mentioning an application deadline or that you're beginning the review process can encourage them to act. Frame it as helpful information, not a demand.
• Remind them of the 'why'. A quick, one-sentence reminder about what makes the role or your company great can help rekindle their initial excitement. Connect it back to their potential contribution.

Types of Incomplete Application Email Templates We Will Cover

1. Missing Documents Email Template
2. Incomplete Form Email Template
3. Unfinished Application Email Template
4. Missing Information Email Template
5. Additional Details Email Template

5 Incomplete Application Email Templates

1) Missing Documents Email Template

<template>

Subject: A few documents needed for your [*Job Title*] application

Hi [*Candidate Name*],

Thanks again for your interest in the [*Job Title*] position at [*Company Name*]. We’ve reviewed your application and noticed a few documents are missing.

To move your application forward, we need you to upload the following: [*List of Missing Documents, e.g., portfolio, cover letter*]. These documents are an important part of our review process and help us get a complete picture of your qualifications.

You can add the missing files by logging back into your application here: [*Link to Application*]

If you have any questions or run into any issues, just reply to this email. We’re happy to help.

Best,

[*Your Name*]

[*Your Position*]

[*Company Name*]

</template>

2) Incomplete Form Email Template

<template>

Subject: Just one more step for your [*Job Title*] application

Hi [*Candidate Name*],

Thanks for taking the time to apply for the [*Job Title*] role. We're excited to learn more about you.

It looks like you’ve almost completed the application form, but a few sections were left blank. To help us get a full view of your skills and experience, could you please fill out the following: [*List of Incomplete Sections, e.g., Work History, Skill Assessment*].

You can jump right back in and complete the form here: [*Link to Application*]

If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reply to this email. We're here to help.

Best,

[*Your Name*]

[*Your Position*]

[*Company Name*]

</template>

3) Unfinished Application Email Template

<template>

Subject: Pick up where you left off with your [*Job Title*] application

Hi [*Candidate Name*],

We noticed you started an application for the [*Job Title*] position at [*Company Name*]. We were looking forward to reviewing your information.

If you’re still interested, you can jump right back in and finish up. Your progress has been saved, so you can pick up exactly where you left off.

Complete your application here: [*Link to Application*]

Sometimes things come up, so no pressure. If you ran into a technical issue or have any questions about the role, simply reply to this email. We’re happy to help.

Best,

[*Your Name*]

[*Your Position*]

[*Company Name*]

</template>

4) Missing Information Email Template

<template>

Subject: A few more details for your [*Job Title*] application

Hi [*Candidate Name*],

Thank you for submitting your application for the [*Job Title*] position. We appreciate you taking the time to share your experience with us.

As we reviewed your materials, we found we need a bit more information to get a complete picture. To help us move your application forward, could you please provide the following details: [*List of Missing Information, e.g., contact details for a reference, specific dates of employment*].

You can simply reply to this email with the information, or update your application directly here: [*Link to Application*]

If you have any questions, just let us know. We’re happy to help.

Best,

[*Your Name*]

[*Your Position*]

[*Company Name*]

</template>

5) Additional Details Email Template

<template>

Subject: A quick question about your [*Job Title*] application

Hi [*Candidate Name*],

Thanks for your application for the [*Job Title*] position at [*Company Name*]. We enjoyed reviewing your experience.

To help us get a better understanding of your qualifications, we were hoping you could provide a bit more detail on the following: [*List of Questions or Topics, e.g., your specific contribution to a project, more about your experience with a particular skill*].

This additional context will give us a clearer picture of how your background aligns with the needs of the role.

You can simply reply to this email with the information. If you have any questions for us, please feel free to ask.

Best,

[*Your Name*]

[*Your Position*]

[*Company Name*]

</template>

What About Using Flodesk?

Sending and managing these incomplete application emails is straightforward with the right tool. Flodesk provides intuitive email marketing tools designed for small businesses, helping you communicate effectively with candidates. You can build, send, and automate your emails without needing any background in coding or design, allowing you to focus on connecting with your audience.

Our platform is built around a simple email builder and powerful automation features, giving you everything required for effective email marketing without the usual complexity. Flodesk empowers both beginners and experienced users to send well-designed, high-converting emails with ease, so you can manage your hiring communications confidently.

Wrapping Up

Re-engaging candidates with incomplete applications doesn't have to be complicated. These templates provide a clear, effective starting point for your follow-up.

Flodesk gives you the tools to build and automate these communications, helping you manage your hiring outreach with confidence. Sign up to start sending well-designed emails today.