1. Introduction
Preparing for an interview at Grainger? The questions you’ll face are a critical part of the hiring process, designed to gauge your suitability for the role. This guide delves into the common grainger interview questions to help you understand what might come your way. From industry knowledge to cultural fit, we’ve got insights to help you nail your Grainger interview.
2. Exploring the Grainger Hiring Landscape
W.W. Grainger, Inc., a Fortune 500 industrial supply company, is renowned for its extensive product offerings and commitment to exceptional customer service. Grainger prides itself on a workforce that understands the demands of industrial distribution and is agile enough to adapt to an ever-evolving marketplace. A successful candidate must not only possess technical skills and industry knowledge but also align with Grainger’s core values and culture. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and excellence, the interview process is carefully crafted to identify individuals who can contribute to and thrive within the company’s dynamic environment.
3. Grainger Interview Questions
1. Can you tell us about your experience in industrial supply or distribution? (Experience & Industry Knowledge)
How to Answer:
This question allows you to showcase your direct experience in the industry. You should mention specific roles you have held, the tasks you were responsible for, and any achievements or improvements you contributed to your previous positions. It’s important to be concise, but provide enough detail to demonstrate your expertise and how it is relevant to the role at Grainger.
My Answer:
Certainly! Over the past five years, I have worked in various roles within the industrial supply chain. My most recent position was as a Supply Chain Coordinator at XYZ Corp, where I was responsible for:
- Coordinating between vendors and our warehouse to ensure timely delivery of industrial components.
- Using inventory management systems to track stock levels and to forecast needs.
- Implementing a vendor evaluation program that improved our supply chain reliability by 15%.
- Developing strong relationships with key suppliers, which often allowed me to expedite orders and negotiate better terms.
2. Why do you want to work at Grainger? (Cultural Fit & Brand Attraction)
How to Answer:
For this question, you should demonstrate your knowledge about Grainger and align your professional values and career goals with the company’s mission and culture. Research the company beforehand and mention specific initiatives, values, or aspects of the company culture that resonate with you.
My Answer:
I am eager to join Grainger because of its reputation as an industry leader in industrial supply and its commitment to excellent customer service. I admire Grainger’s dedication to sustainability and its approach to ethical business practices. Moreover, Grainger’s focus on continuous improvement and employee development aligns with my professional growth goals. I am particularly excited about the possibility of joining a company that invests in its employees and encourages innovation at all levels.
3. How would you handle a situation where a product is out of stock but a customer needs it urgently? (Customer Service & Problem-Solving)
How to Answer:
When discussing customer service scenarios, it’s crucial to show your problem-solving skills and your commitment to providing excellent customer service. Outline the steps you would take to resolve the issue and maintain customer satisfaction.
My Answer:
If I encountered a situation where a product was out of stock but a customer needed it urgently, I would take the following steps:
- Apologize to the customer for the inconvenience and assure them that I will do everything possible to resolve the issue.
- Check alternative sources within the company’s network to find the product at another location.
- Contact suppliers to see if a direct shipment to the customer is possible.
- Provide alternatives by suggesting similar products or models that meet the customer’s needs.
- Keep the customer informed throughout the process, setting clear expectations on possible timelines and next steps.
- Follow up to ensure that the solution has been satisfactory and to regain the customer’s trust.
4. Describe a time when you had to work with a difficult team member. How did you handle it? (Teamwork & Conflict Resolution)
How to Answer:
This question aims to assess your interpersonal skills and your ability to handle conflicts professionally. Describe a specific instance, the strategies you used to address the situation, and the outcome. Focus on the positive aspects, such as how the experience improved the team dynamics or what you learned from it.
My Answer:
There was a time when I worked with a team member who was often uncooperative and resistant to new ideas. To handle the situation, I:
- Listened to the colleague’s concerns to understand the reasons behind their behavior.
- Communicated openly by expressing my perspective and the importance of collaboration for the team’s success.
- Sought common ground by identifying shared goals and values to foster a sense of team unity.
- Involved our supervisor when necessary, to facilitate a productive dialogue and find a resolution.
Ultimately, by maintaining a professional attitude and open communication, we were able to improve our working relationship and collaborate more effectively on future projects.
5. What do you consider the most important trends in industrial supply today? (Industry Knowledge & Trends Awareness)
How to Answer:
This question is designed to assess your awareness of industry trends and your ability to stay informed. Discuss several key trends that are shaping the industrial supply sector and how these trends might impact a company like Grainger.
My Answer:
The industrial supply sector is currently influenced by several important trends:
| Trend | Impact |
|---|---|
| Digital Transformation | Streamlining the supply chain and improving efficiencies through automation and data analytics |
| Sustainability | Increasing focus on eco-friendly products and reducing the carbon footprint in manufacturing and distribution |
| E-Commerce Growth | Changing customer buying behaviors and increasing demand for online ordering and delivery capabilities |
| Globalization | Expanding opportunities and competition, as well as complexities in logistics and regulatory compliance |
| Skilled Labor Shortage | Creating a need for more training programs and a push towards more automation |
These trends are critical for a company like Grainger to consider in order to stay competitive, meet customer expectations, and address the evolving landscape of industrial supply.
6. How do you prioritize tasks when you have multiple urgent deadlines? (Time Management & Prioritization)
How to Answer:
When you’re asked about prioritizing tasks, the interviewer wants to know if you can efficiently manage your workload and deadlines. Be sure to discuss your ability to evaluate the importance and urgency of tasks, allocate time accordingly, and communicate with stakeholders.
My Answer:
When faced with multiple urgent deadlines, I take a systematic approach to prioritize tasks effectively:
- Assess Urgency and Impact: I determine which tasks have the closest deadlines and which ones will have the greatest impact on the business or project.
- Prioritize According to Deadlines and Goals: Tasks that align with the company’s immediate goals and have the nearest deadlines are given top priority.
- Communicate and Delegate: If possible, I collaborate with my team to delegate tasks, ensuring that everyone is working on assignments that match their strengths and workload capacity.
- Adjust and Reassess: Priorities can shift, so I stay flexible, reassessing task priorities if new information or deadlines arise and adjusting my plan accordingly.
- Utilize Tools: I use tools such as to-do lists, project management software, or the Eisenhower Matrix to keep organized and focused.
7. What strategies would you use to build long-term relationships with clients? (Sales & Relationship Management)
How to Answer:
When answering this question, emphasize your people skills, communication abilities, and other relevant strategies that contribute to successful relationship building with clients. This is the chance to showcase your understanding of client needs and your commitment to customer service.
My Answer:
To build long-term relationships with clients, I would employ the following strategies:
- Consistent Communication: Regularly touch base with clients through emails, calls, or in-person meetings to keep them informed and engaged.
- Understand Needs: Take time to understand each client’s unique business needs and tailor solutions accordingly.
- Reliability: Always follow through on promises and meet deadlines to build trust.
- Add Value: Regularly provide insights, industry updates, or helpful resources that are relevant to the client’s business.
- Seek Feedback: Actively seek and respond to client feedback to demonstrate commitment to continuous improvement.
- Personal Touch: Remember personal details and significant events to foster a more personal connection.
8. Describe your experience with inventory management systems. (Technical Skills & Experience)
How to Answer:
When discussing your experience with inventory management systems, focus on specific platforms you’ve used, problems you’ve solved, and how your involvement with these systems contributed to operational efficiency.
My Answer:
My experience with inventory management systems spans several years and involves a variety of platforms. Here’s a breakdown of my experience:
- Implementation: Assisted in implementing an RFID-based inventory tracking system at my previous job, which improved inventory accuracy by 25%.
- Daily Operations: Regularly used systems such as Oracle NetSuite and SAP for everyday inventory tasks, including stock level monitoring and reordering.
- Optimization: Worked on optimizing inventory turnover rates through better demand forecasting and just-in-time inventory practices.
- Troubleshooting: Acted as a point of contact for resolving system errors and training new staff in the use of inventory management software.
9. How comfortable are you with data analysis and making data-driven decisions? (Data Analysis & Decision-Making)
How to Answer:
This question assesses your analytical skills and your comfort level with using data to inform your decisions. Speak to specific examples of data analysis tools you’ve used and decisions you’ve made based on data.
My Answer:
I am very comfortable with data analysis and consistently rely on data to make informed decisions. My experience includes:
- Data Analysis Tools: Proficient in tools such as Excel, SQL, and Tableau for analyzing datasets and uncovering trends.
- Critical Thinking: Ability to evaluate data critically to ensure that decisions are based on accurate and relevant information.
- Data-Driven Decisions: Successfully increased sales by 15% in a previous role by analyzing customer purchase patterns and adjusting marketing strategies accordingly.
10. What do you think sets Grainger apart from its competitors? (Market Knowledge & Company Insight)
How to Answer:
For this question, showcase your knowledge about Grainger and how it differentiates itself in the market. Focus on its unique selling propositions, market reputation, products, services, and company culture.
My Answer:
What sets Grainger apart from its competitors includes several key factors:
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Product Range | Grainger offers a broad and diverse range of products, making it a one-stop shop for customers. |
| Service Excellence | The company’s commitment to outstanding customer service ensures a reliable and positive experience. |
| Digital Leadership | Grainger’s innovative use of technology and e-commerce platforms enhances convenience and access for customers. |
| Sustainability Initiatives | Grainger has a strong focus on sustainability, which appeals to environmentally conscious consumers and businesses. |
| Inventory Management | The company provides advanced inventory management solutions that help clients save time and reduce costs. |
Understanding these aspects of Grainger can help candidates demonstrate a genuine interest in the company and its mission during the interview process.
11. How do you ensure safety in the workplace? (Safety & Compliance)
How to Answer:
When answering this question, consider specific strategies and protocols that you’ve implemented or followed in previous roles to maintain a safe work environment. Emphasize your understanding of industry standards, compliance with regulatory requirements, and your proactive approach to identifying and mitigating risks.
My Answer:
Safety in the workplace is a critical concern that requires a multi-faceted approach. To ensure safety, I follow these key steps:
- Risk Assessment: Regularly conduct risk assessments to identify potential hazards in the workplace.
- Training: Provide comprehensive safety training to all employees, including emergency response drills and proper equipment handling.
- Safety Protocols: Implement and enforce strict safety protocols, such as proper signage, maintaining clear pathways, and ensuring all machinery is up to code.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Ensure that proper PPE is available and used correctly by all staff.
- Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance and inspections of equipment and facilities to prevent malfunctions that could lead to accidents.
- Open Communication: Foster a culture of open communication where employees feel comfortable reporting safety concerns without fear of repercussions.
By consistently applying these strategies, I work to maintain a safe workplace and comply with all relevant health and safety regulations.
12. Can you discuss a time when you identified a process inefficiency and how you improved it? (Process Improvement & Critical Thinking)
How to Answer:
Reflect on a specific example from your past experience where you used your critical thinking skills to identify a bottleneck or inefficiency in a process. Explain the steps you took to analyze the problem, the solution you implemented, and the positive outcome that resulted from your actions.
My Answer:
During my time at Company X, I noticed that the inventory restocking process was causing significant delays in order fulfillment. The issue stemmed from the manual tracking of stock levels which often led to inaccuracies and overstocking.
- Analysis: I conducted an analysis of the restocking process, tracking the time taken for each step and identifying the manual tracking as the central inefficiency.
- Solution: To address this, I proposed the implementation of an automated inventory management system.
- Implementation: After securing approval, I led the integration of the new system, which included staff training on its use.
- Outcome: As a result, stock levels were updated in real-time, reducing overstocking and understocking incidents. This led to a 30% improvement in order fulfillment speed and a reduction in inventory costs.
13. What is your approach to learning new products and technologies? (Learning Ability & Adaptability)
How to Answer:
Discuss your learning process, which might include research, hands-on practice, and seeking feedback. Highlight how you stay updated with industry trends and your ability to adapt to new tools or systems quickly.
My Answer:
My approach to learning new products and technologies includes:
- Research: I start by conducting thorough research, reading documentation, and reviewing case studies or customer reviews.
- Hands-On Practice: I believe in hands-on learning, so I engage with the product or technology directly, either through a trial version or sandbox environment.
- Training & Workshops: I attend relevant training sessions or workshops to deepen my understanding.
- Networking: Engaging with other professionals and experts in the field provides me with insights and practical tips.
- Feedback Loop: I set up a feedback loop where I regularly assess my understanding and skills, seeking feedback from peers or mentors, and making adjustments to my learning plan accordingly.
This systematic and proactive approach allows me to quickly become proficient with new products and technologies, ensuring that I can effectively integrate them into my work.
14. How would you deal with a client who has had a negative experience with Grainger in the past? (Customer Service & Problem-Solving)
How to Answer:
This question assesses your problem-solving and customer service skills. A good answer should demonstrate empathy, active listening, and a commitment to resolving the customer’s issues.
My Answer:
To deal with a client who has had a negative experience with Grainger in the past, I would:
- Listen: Begin with actively listening to the client’s concerns without interruption, showing empathy and understanding.
- Apologize: Offer a sincere apology for any inconvenience or frustration they’ve experienced.
- Assess: Evaluate the situation to understand the root cause of the negative experience.
- Solution: Propose a realistic and satisfactory solution to address their concerns.
- Follow-Up: Ensure that the solution is implemented effectively and follow up with the client to confirm their satisfaction.
By taking these steps, I aim to rebuild trust and demonstrate Grainger’s commitment to exceptional customer service.
15. Can you provide an example of a successful negotiation you were a part of? (Negotiation & Sales Skills)
How to Answer:
Share a concrete example of a negotiation in which you played a key role, focusing on your negotiation strategy, the interpersonal skills you used, and the mutually beneficial outcome achieved.
My Answer:
In my previous role, I was responsible for negotiating contracts with suppliers. One significant negotiation involved a long-term contract with a key supplier that was up for renewal.
- Preparation: I carefully prepared by analyzing our purchase history, the supplier’s pricing, and market trends.
- Strategy: My strategy was to secure a discount by committing to a larger volume of purchases.
- Negotiation: During the negotiation, I highlighted the benefits of our continued partnership and the guaranteed volume we would bring to the supplier.
- Outcome: The supplier agreed to a 10% discount on unit prices, which amounted to substantial cost savings for our company over the life of the contract.
| Negotiation Phase | Action Taken | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation | Analyzed purchase history and pricing | Informed negotiation strategy |
| Strategy | Proposed higher volume commitment | Gained leverage for discounted pricing |
| Negotiation | Highlighted mutual benefits | Secured a 10% discount on unit prices |
| Outcome | Finalized and signed the new contract | Achieved cost savings for the company |
This negotiation demonstrated my ability to blend analytical skills with strategic thinking, ultimately leading to a successful outcome that benefited both parties.
16. How do you stay motivated during repetitive tasks? (Motivation & Work Ethic)
How to Answer:
When answering this question, think about strategies you use to maintain focus and motivation when faced with monotonous work. Employers ask this question to gauge whether you can maintain productivity and a positive attitude even when the work isn’t particularly exciting. It can be helpful to mention specific techniques you’ve used in the past, such as setting mini-goals or rewarding yourself for completing tasks.
My Answer:
To stay motivated during repetitive tasks, I employ several strategies:
- Breaking down tasks into smaller goals: This helps create a sense of progress and accomplishment, which can be motivating.
- Reminding myself of the bigger picture: Understanding how these tasks fit into the overall goals of the company or project can provide motivation to continue.
- Listening to music or podcasts: This can make the time pass more enjoyably and can sometimes enhance my focus.
- Taking short breaks: Periodically stepping away from the work to clear my mind helps maintain my overall productivity.
17. Describe a situation where you had to adhere to strict deadlines and budget constraints. (Project Management & Financial Acumen)
How to Answer:
Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your response. Explain the situation you were in, the task that was required, the actions you took to adhere to the deadlines and budget, and the result of your actions. Be specific about your role and how you managed the constraints effectively.
My Answer:
Situation: In my previous role, I was responsible for leading a team to launch a new product within a quarter.
Task: The challenge was to complete the project under a tight deadline and within a fixed budget that was non-negotiable.
Action: I took several steps to ensure we met our goals:
- Created a detailed project plan with clear milestones
- Conducted weekly budget reviews to manage costs effectively
- Reallocated resources when necessary to keep on schedule
- Implemented overtime only when critical to meet a milestone
Result: Despite the challenges, we launched the product on time and under budget, which contributed to a successful market entry and a 10% increase in departmental revenue for that fiscal year.
18. How would you approach a new market or territory for Grainger’s products? (Market Strategy & Business Development)
How to Answer:
Discuss your methodology for entering new markets, including market research, competitive analysis, understanding customer needs, and developing marketing strategies. It’s important to show that you have a structured and analytical approach to business development.
My Answer:
To approach a new market or territory for Grainger’s products, I would:
- Conduct Market Research: Understand the demographics, needs, and preferences of potential customers in the new territory.
- Analyze Competition: Identify local competitors and analyze their strengths and weaknesses.
- Tailor Product Offerings: Adapt Grainger’s product offerings to meet the specific needs and regulatory requirements of the new market.
- Develop Strategic Partnerships: Establish relationships with local distributors or businesses that could aid in market penetration.
- Marketing and Promotion: Create targeted marketing campaigns that resonate with the local audience.
19. What experience do you have with e-commerce platforms? (E-Commerce & Digital Literacy)
How to Answer:
Provide details about your experience with e-commerce, including the platforms you’ve used, the scope of your responsibilities, and any achievements or improvements you’ve made. Your answer should reflect a strong understanding of e-commerce principles and the ability to leverage digital tools for business success.
My Answer:
I have extensive experience with e-commerce platforms including Magento, Shopify, and WooCommerce. My responsibilities have included:
- Setting up online stores: From choosing the right platform to customizing the design and functionality.
- Managing product listings: Creating and optimizing product descriptions and images for maximum impact.
- Implementing SEO strategies: To increase organic traffic and improve search engine rankings.
- Analyzing data: Using Google Analytics and platform-specific reporting tools to monitor performance and make data-driven decisions.
In one project, I increased an online store’s conversion rate by 20% through A/B testing and optimizing the checkout process.
20. How would you handle a significant change in company policy or strategy? (Adaptability & Change Management)
How to Answer:
Discuss your approach to managing change, including staying informed, communicating effectively with team members, adjusting plans as necessary, and maintaining a positive attitude. Employers value candidates who can demonstrate resilience and the ability to adapt to new circumstances.
My Answer:
When faced with significant changes in company policy or strategy, I would:
- Stay Informed: Ensure I fully understand the changes, the reasons behind them, and the expected outcomes.
- Communicate: Discuss the changes with my team, addressing their concerns and emphasizing the benefits.
- Adjust Plans: Review current projects and plans to align with the new direction.
- Be Flexible: Stay open to continuous learning and adjust my approach as the situation evolves.
- Lead by Example: Maintain a positive attitude to inspire confidence and adaptability in my team.
21. Can you discuss a project you led from conception to execution? (Project Management & Leadership)
How to Answer:
When answering this question, consider structuring your response using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Describe the context of the project, your specific role, the steps you took to lead the project, any challenges you faced, and the outcomes of the project.
My Answer:
Certainly. In my previous role as a Project Manager, I led a project aimed at automating the inventory management system for our warehouse.
- Situation: The company was facing issues with manual tracking causing frequent stock discrepancies and inefficiencies.
- Task: My role was to oversee the project from the initial planning phase to the implementation of the automated system.
- Action: I executed the following steps:
- Conducted a needs analysis to understand warehouse operations and requirements.
- Researched and selected a software solution that aligned with our needs.
- Developed a project plan, with timelines, budget, and resource allocation.
- Organized a cross-functional team to tackle various aspects of the project.
- Facilitated communication between the software provider and our IT department.
- Oversaw the testing phase and addressed any issues raised.
- Managed the training of staff on the new system.
- Rolled out the system while ensuring minimal disruption to operations.
- Result: The project was delivered on time and within budget. After implementation, we saw a 30% reduction in stock discrepancies and a 20% improvement in warehouse operational efficiency.
22. What role does sustainability play in industrial supply, and how have you implemented it in past roles? (Sustainability & Environmental Awareness)
How to Answer:
Discuss the importance of sustainability in industrial supply and provide specific examples of how you have incorporated sustainable practices into your previous roles. Highlight any initiatives you have led or participated in that resulted in more environmentally friendly operations.
My Answer:
Sustainability is increasingly vital in industrial supply as it leads to long-term cost savings, risk mitigation, and corporate responsibility. It also aligns with customer values and regulatory requirements.
In my last role, I worked to implement sustainability by:
- Optimizing logistics to reduce carbon emissions from transportation.
- Introducing a recycling program for used materials in the production process.
- Selecting suppliers who have certified sustainable practices and materials.
| Initiative | Description | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Optimized Logistics | Implemented route optimization software for delivery trucks. | Reduced fuel consumption by 15%. |
| Recycling Program | Set up a system for recycling materials within the production process. | Diverted 40% of waste from landfills. |
| Sustainable Suppliers | Shifted to suppliers with sustainability certifications. | Improved sustainability score by 25%. |
23. How do you approach goal setting and performance tracking for your team? (Leadership & Performance Management)
How to Answer:
Discuss the techniques and tools you use to set realistic and challenging goals for your team and how you measure performance. Explain how you ensure these goals align with organizational objectives.
My Answer:
I approach goal setting by ensuring that each objective is Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART). To track performance, I use a combination of key performance indicators (KPIs), regular check-ins, and performance reviews.
For goal setting, the process involves:
- Collaborating with team members to set individual and team goals that contribute to the company’s broader objectives.
- Breaking down larger goals into smaller, actionable tasks.
For performance tracking:
- KPIs are established for each goal, providing clear benchmarks for success.
- Regular check-ins and progress reports help in monitoring ongoing performance.
- Annual or semi-annual performance reviews provide an opportunity to evaluate and recalibrate goals if necessary.
24. Can you tell us about a time you went above and beyond for a customer? (Customer Service & Initiative)
How to Answer:
Share a specific example that demonstrates your commitment to excellent customer service and how you took initiative to go the extra mile for a customer.
My Answer:
Absolutely. Once, a key customer faced an urgent issue when their production line was halted due to a missing component that we supplied. Despite it being after-hours, I took the initiative to:
- Immediately contact our warehouse to check the stock availability.
- Arranged for an emergency dispatch directly to the customer’s site.
- Personally monitored the situation until the component was delivered and the production line was back up and running.
The customer was incredibly grateful for the swift action, and it strengthened our relationship, leading to future business opportunities.
25. What methods do you use to stay up-to-date with industry regulations and compliance? (Regulatory Knowledge & Continuous Learning)
How to Answer:
Discuss the proactive steps you take to ensure you remain knowledgeable about industry regulations and compliance, which could include specific publications, courses, seminars, networking, or regulatory bodies you follow.
My Answer:
To stay abreast of industry regulations and compliance, I utilize various methods:
- Subscriptions to Industry Journals: Regularly reading publications like ‘Industrial Supply Magazine’ and ‘Supply Chain Management Review’.
- Professional Development: Attending webinars, workshops, and conferences related to industrial supply and compliance.
- Networking: Joining professional organizations and online forums where peers discuss regulatory changes.
- Regulatory Bodies: Following updates from relevant regulatory bodies like OSHA and EPA.
- Continuing Education: Pursuing certifications like the Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) which requires ongoing education.
By using these methods, I ensure that I’m always aware of the current and upcoming regulations that impact our industry.
4. Tips for Preparation
Success in a Grainger interview not only hinges on your ability to answer questions effectively but also on the depth of your preparation. Start with thorough research on Grainger’s history, values, product lines, and market position. Familiarize yourself with industry trends and how they impact the company.
For role-specific preparation, reflect on how your experience aligns with the job description. Brush up on your technical knowledge if you’re applying for a role that demands it, such as inventory management systems. Likewise, rehearse answers for scenarios that showcase your soft skills, like conflict resolution and teamwork. Tailor your examples to demonstrate leadership and problem-solving within the context of Grainger’s industry.
5. During & After the Interview
In the interview, first impressions matter. Dress professionally, arrive early, and convey confidence through your body language. Be ready to articulate how your skills and experiences make you a fit for the role. Listen actively and answer questions with clarity and relevance.
Avoid common pitfalls such as speaking negatively about past employers or appearing unprepared. Remember, the interview is also your opportunity to assess if Grainger is the right fit for you. Prepare thoughtful questions about the company’s culture, expectations for the role, or upcoming projects.
After the interview, follow up with a personalized thank-you email to express your continued interest in the position and to reiterate how you can contribute to the company. Be patient but proactive; if you haven’t heard back within the timeline provided, it’s acceptable to send a polite inquiry regarding your application status.