Top 25 Production Management Interview Questions & Answers

1. Introduction

Preparing for an interview in the realm of production management requires a deep understanding of the key concepts and practical skills relevant to the industry. In this article, we will explore production management interview questions that are commonly asked by hiring managers. Whether you’re an aspiring production manager or looking to elevate your career, knowing how to effectively respond to these inquiries can set you apart from other candidates.

Production Management Insights

When stepping into the world of production, it’s crucial to grasp the multifaceted nature of the role. Production management is not merely about overseeing the manufacturing process; it encompasses a strategic orchestration of resources, technology, and personnel to achieve efficient and cost-effective production outcomes. Effective managers are those who can balance these elements while driving continuous improvement and innovation. A successful interviewee will demonstrate not just technical expertise, but also the leadership and problem-solving skills that ensure a harmonious and productive operation. Let’s delve into the skillsets and perspectives that will be scrutinized through these interview questions.

3. Production Management Interview Questions

Q1. Can you describe your experience with production planning and scheduling? (Experience & Skills)

How to Answer:
When answering this question, highlight your experience in production planning and scheduling. Discuss the various tools and techniques you’ve used, such as ERP systems or production scheduling software. Mention any specific industries or types of products you have worked with. Explain how you’ve managed resources, timelines, and adjusted plans to meet changing demands or resolve issues.

My Answer:
Certainly, I have extensive experience with production planning and scheduling, having worked in the manufacturing sector for over a decade. I’ve been responsible for:

• Developing detailed production schedules to ensure that all tasks are completed on time and within the resource constraints.
• Utilizing ERP systems, such as SAP and Oracle, to streamline production processes and improve efficiency.
• Collaborating with various departments, including procurement, logistics, and quality control, to ensure that the production plan aligns with broader business objectives.
• Implementing lean manufacturing principles to minimize waste and optimize workflow.

I’ve worked with both make-to-stock and make-to-order production strategies, which have honed my ability to forecast demand and manage inventory effectively.

Q2. How do you ensure that production goals are met while maintaining quality standards? (Quality Management)

How to Answer:
Discuss the strategies you employ to balance productivity and quality, such as implementing quality management systems (QMS), regular training, and continuous improvement programs. Mention any specific standards or methodologies you are familiar with, like ISO 9001, Six Sigma, or TQM.

My Answer:
To ensure that production goals are met without sacrificing quality, I focus on:

• Establishing clear quality objectives that align with production targets.
• Implementing a robust Quality Management System (QMS) that adheres to ISO 9001 standards.
• Conducting regular training programs for the workforce to enhance their skills and understanding of quality importance.
• Utilizing Six Sigma techniques to analyze and improve processes, thereby reducing defects and enhancing overall quality.
• Encouraging a culture of continuous improvement where feedback is actively sought and used to refine processes.

I also believe in proactive problem-solving and regularly reviewing key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify areas for improvement before they become issues.

Q3. What methods do you use for demand forecasting and capacity planning? (Demand Forecasting & Capacity Planning)

How to Answer:
Mention the techniques and tools you use for demand forecasting, like historical data analysis, market analysis, and statistical methods. For capacity planning, discuss how you match production capabilities with predicted demand. Analytical software or simulations might be part of your toolkit as well.

My Answer:
For demand forecasting, I use a combination of:

• Qualitative techniques: such as market research and expert opinion to understand potential changes in the market.
• Quantitative methods: involving statistical analysis of historical sales data and trend analysis to predict future demand.

In terms of capacity planning, I employ:

• Resource leveling and smoothing: to balance the workload within the capacity constraints.
• What-if analysis: using simulation software to anticipate the impact of various scenarios on production capacity.

I also continuously monitor market trends and sales patterns to adjust forecasts in real-time. This agile approach allows for more accurate capacity planning.

Q4. Can you discuss a time when you had to manage a production crisis? (Crisis Management)

How to Answer:
Reflect on a specific incident where you successfully navigated a production issue. Explain the situation, the actions you took, and the result. Highlight your problem-solving skills, ability to remain calm under pressure, and your strategic thinking.

My Answer:
A few years ago, we faced a significant production crisis when a key piece of machinery broke down unexpectedly.

Immediate Response:

• I formed a crisis management team comprising cross-functional leads.
• We assessed the situation to determine the fastest way to get the production line back up while minimizing the impact on delivery schedules.

Long-Term Solutions:

• Implemented a preventive maintenance schedule to avoid similar issues in the future.
• Improved training for operators to enhance their skills in identifying potential equipment issues early on.

The result was a downtime of only 48 hours, with minimal impact on our delivery commitments, and we improved our overall maintenance strategy to prevent future crises.

Q5. How do you approach reducing production costs without compromising quality? (Cost Reduction Strategies)

How to Answer:
Explain your methodology for identifying cost-saving opportunities that do not affect product quality. This could include lean manufacturing practices, supplier negotiation, or investment in more efficient technology.

My Answer:
To reduce production costs without compromising quality, I:

• Conduct value stream mapping: to identify and eliminate non-value-adding steps in the production process.
• Negotiate with suppliers: for better rates or bulk discounts without affecting the quality of materials.
• Invest in energy-efficient technologies: which reduce long-term operational costs.
• Implement lean manufacturing principles: like 5S, to enhance efficiency and minimize waste.

Here is a table outlining some of the strategies I’ve applied:

Strategy	Description
Preventive Maintenance	Regular maintenance of equipment to prevent costly downtime.
Supplier Relationships	Building strong relationships with suppliers to negotiate better pricing.
Lean Manufacturing	Applying lean principles to streamline processes and reduce waste.
Staff Training	Upskilling staff to increase productivity and reduce errors.
Technology Investment	Investing in automation and high-efficiency equipment to lower long-term costs.

These strategies have helped me achieve a significant reduction in production costs while maintaining, or even improving, product quality.

Q6. What is your experience with implementing Lean manufacturing or other continuous improvement processes? (Process Improvement)

How to Answer:
When addressing your experience with implementing lean manufacturing or other continuous improvement processes, you should outline specific initiatives you’ve been involved in or led, the results achieved, and how you engaged the team in the process. Highlight any certifications or training you might have in Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies.

My Answer:
I have over five years of experience in implementing Lean manufacturing principles within the automotive industry. My key initiatives have included:

• Value Stream Mapping (VSM): I led a cross-functional team to map out the manufacturing process of a critical product line. We identified non-value-added steps and were able to reduce the overall production time by 25%.

• 5S Implementation: I initiated a 5S program which improved workplace organization and cleanliness. This not only improved employee morale but also reduced the time spent searching for tools and materials, leading to a 10% improvement in overall productivity.

• Kaizen Events: I facilitated multiple Kaizen events where we focused on quick, incremental changes to processes. One such event resulted in a redesigned workflow for a packaging line, increasing throughput by 15%.

• Kanban Systems: I implemented Kanban systems to better control inventory and reduce waste. This system helped to cut down excess inventory costs by 30% and improved material flow.

Through these experiences, I have learned the importance of involving team members in the process and ensuring continuous improvement is a part of the company culture.

Q7. How do you manage and develop your production team? (Team Management)

How to Answer:
Discuss your leadership style, how you set goals, and how you engage with your team to foster development. Mention any specific training or mentorship programs you’ve implemented or participated in.

My Answer:
My approach to managing and developing a production team is centered around clear communication, goal-setting, and continuous learning:

• Goal Setting: I work with each team member to set individual and team goals aligned with our overall production targets.

• Regular Feedback: I conduct regular one-on-one meetings to provide feedback and discuss progress on goals.

• Training and Development: I advocate for and facilitate ongoing training opportunities, whether in-house or external, to ensure that team members are up-to-date with the latest industry practices.

• Empowerment: Encouraging team members to take ownership of their work and contribute ideas for process improvements.

• Recognition: I believe in recognizing and celebrating successes, both big and small, to keep the team motivated.

Q8. What experience do you have with supply chain management? (Supply Chain Management)

How to Answer:
Detail specific responsibilities you’ve had in previous roles overseeing supply chains, including any strategies you’ve implemented to optimize the supply chain, how you’ve managed relationships with suppliers, and how you’ve dealt with supply chain disruptions.

My Answer:
In my previous role as a Production Manager, I was responsible for managing the end-to-end supply chain for a mid-sized consumer electronics manufacturer. My experience includes:

• Supplier Management: Negotiating terms and building relationships with suppliers to ensure the best price, quality, and delivery times.

• Inventory Control: Implementing just-in-time (JIT) inventory management to minimize holding costs and reduce waste.

• Risk Management: Assessing and mitigating risks within the supply chain by diversifying the supplier base and maintaining contingency plans.

• Continuous Improvement: Regularly analyzing the supply chain for inefficiencies and potential improvements.

• Technology Integration: Utilizing supply chain management software to forecast demand and track inventory levels.

Q9. How do you prioritize and handle multiple projects simultaneously? (Project Management)

How to Answer:
Explain your approach to project management, including how you prioritize tasks, manage resources, and keep projects on track. Discuss any specific methodologies or tools you use.

My Answer:
My approach to handling multiple projects simultaneously is rooted in strong organizational skills and effective prioritization. Here’s how I manage:

• Prioritization Matrix: Utilize a prioritization matrix to assess which projects have the highest impact and urgency.

• Resource Allocation: Ensure that resources are allocated efficiently across projects, making adjustments as needed to meet shifting priorities.

• Project Management Tools: Use tools like Asana or Trello to keep project tasks organized and visible to all stakeholders.

• Regular Check-Ins: Hold weekly meetings to review project statuses, address bottlenecks, and adjust plans accordingly.

• Delegation: Empower team members by delegating tasks, which helps in managing workload and developing their skills.

Q10. What strategies do you use to maintain effective communication with all departments involved in production? (Communication)

How to Answer:
Discuss your approach to cross-departmental communication and how you ensure that all relevant parties are informed and aligned with production goals. You can also mention any challenges you’ve overcome in this area.

My Answer:
Effective communication across departments is vital to ensure smooth production operations. My strategies include:

• Cross-Functional Meetings: Regularly scheduled meetings where all departments can synchronize on production schedules, challenges, and achievements.

• Clear Documentation: Maintaining clear and accessible documentation, such as SOPs and production schedules, to ensure that everyone has access to the information they need.

• Open-Door Policy: Encouraging an open-door policy where team members can voice concerns or suggestions at any time.

• Communication Tools: Utilizing tools like Slack or email newsletters to keep everyone updated on important changes or updates.

• Feedback Loops: Implementing feedback loops to gather input from various departments and incorporate their insights into production planning.

Here is a table summarizing the tools and strategies I use for maintaining effective communication:

Communication Strategy	Tool/Method	Purpose
Regular Meetings	Cross-Functional	Synchronize on production updates and challenges.
Documentation	SOPs, Production Schedules	Provide clear information access to all parties.
Open Communication	Open-Door Policy	Encourage feedback and suggestions.
Updates	Slack, Newsletters	Keep teams informed on changes and achievements.
Gathering Feedback	Feedback Loops	Incorporate insights from various departments.

Q11. How do you ensure health and safety regulations are followed on the production floor? (Health & Safety Compliance)

How to Answer:
In answering this question, highlight the proactive measures and systems you put in place to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations. Consider mentioning regular training sessions, safety audits, and how you foster a culture of safety on the production floor.

My Answer:
To ensure health and safety regulations are followed on the production floor, I take the following steps:

• Regular Training: Conduct regular health and safety training sessions for all employees, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and emergency procedures.
• Clear Signage: Install clear signage throughout the production facility to remind staff of safety practices and hazard locations.
• Safety Audits: Perform routine safety audits to identify potential risks and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Maintenance of Equipment: Ensure regular maintenance and safety checks of all production equipment.
• Incident Reporting System: Implement an incident reporting system to quickly address any safety concerns and prevent future incidents.
• Safety Committee: Establish a safety committee that includes representatives from various departments to keep safety policies current and effective.

Q12. What role does technology play in your production management strategy? (Technology Integration)

How to Answer:
Discuss how technology helps to improve efficiency, accuracy, and overall performance in production management. Mention specific technologies like automation, data analytics, and IoT that you have implemented or are planning to implement to enhance production processes.

My Answer:
Technology is integral to my production management strategy. It plays the following roles:

• Automation: Reducing manual intervention and streamlining processes for better efficiency and consistency.
• Real-Time Monitoring: Using sensors and IoT devices for real-time monitoring of production lines which helps in predictive maintenance and reducing downtimes.
• Data Analytics: Employing data analytics tools to analyze production data for insights that inform decision-making and continuous improvement.
• Collaboration Tools: Utilizing collaboration software to improve communication between different departments and stakeholders involved in the production process.

Q13. Can you provide an example of how you’ve used data analysis in your production management? (Data Analysis)

How to Answer:
Provide a specific example that demonstrates your ability to use data to make informed decisions to improve production processes, increase efficiency, or reduce costs. Explain the situation, the analysis performed, and the outcome.

My Answer:

In my previous role, we had issues with bottlenecks on the production line, which were causing delays. I spearheaded a project to collect and analyze data from various stages of production. Here’s an example:

Production Stage	Average Time (hr)	Throughput (units/hr)
Stage 1	1.5	200
Stage 2	2	150
Stage 3	1	300

After analyzing this data, it became clear that Stage 2 was the bottleneck. We used this insight to re-allocate resources and streamline workflows. As a result, we increased the throughput of Stage 2 to match adjacent stages, which improved the overall efficiency by 20% and reduced the lead time by 15%.

Q14. How do you handle supply chain disruptions? (Supply Chain Problem-Solving)

How to Answer:
Explain your strategies for minimizing the impact of supply chain disruptions. Discuss your approach to risk management, contingency planning, and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers.

My Answer:
To handle supply chain disruptions, I undertake the following steps:

• Risk Assessment: Perform regular risk assessments to identify potential vulnerabilities in the supply chain.
• Diversified Suppliers: Ensure a diversified supplier base to mitigate the impact if one supplier faces issues.
• Contingency Planning: Develop contingency plans for different scenarios, including alternative suppliers and routes.
• Communication: Maintain open lines of communication with suppliers for early warnings about potential disruptions.
• Inventory Management: Adopt a strategic inventory management approach, such as safety stock or just-in-time inventory, to balance the cost of carrying inventory with the risk of disruption.

Q15. What is your approach to employee training and development in a production environment? (Employee Training)

How to Answer:
Outline your strategy for creating an effective training program that ensures employees are skilled and knowledgeable. Mention the importance of continuous learning and adapting to technological advancements.

My Answer:
My approach to employee training and development includes:

• Needs Assessment: First, conduct a training needs assessment to identify knowledge gaps and skills that need development.
• Customized Training Programs: Develop customized training programs that cater to the specific needs of the production environment and the skills required for various roles.
• On-the-Job Training: Implement on-the-job training for practical experience and reinforcement of learned skills.
• Cross-Training: Encourage cross-training to increase workforce flexibility and knowledge sharing.
• Professional Development: Offer opportunities for professional development to foster career growth and keep employees engaged.
• Technological Up-Skilling: Provide training on new technologies and tools that are relevant to the production processes to ensure employees are up-to-date with industry standards.

In summary, these strategies ensure a well-trained workforce that can efficiently manage production while maintaining quality and safety standards.

Q16. Describe a situation where you had to deal with a difficult team member. How did you handle it? (Conflict Resolution)

How to Answer
To answer this question effectively, it is important to demonstrate your conflict resolution skills and ability to work with diverse personalities. Structure your response to show your approach to the problem, how you communicated with the team member, and what the outcome was. Emphasize the steps you took to resolve the issue without compromising team dynamics or project outcomes. Your answer should reflect maturity, empathy, and leadership.

My Answer
At my previous job, I had an experience where a team member was consistently missing deadlines, which was affecting the whole production schedule. Here’s how I handled the situation:

• Assessment: I first evaluated the tasks the team member was responsible for and whether these were clearly defined and understood.
• Communication: I approached the team member for a one-on-one discussion to understand their perspective and challenges.
• Support: I found out that the team member was overwhelmed with the workload and lacked certain skills required for the job.
• Action: We agreed on a plan where the team member would receive additional training and we would redistribute some of the workload in the interim to ensure deadlines were met.
• Follow-up: Regular check-ins were scheduled to monitor progress and provide support where necessary.

The outcome was positive – the team member was able to improve their performance, and the team as a whole became more cohesive and productive.

Q17. How do you ensure that production equipment is properly maintained? (Equipment Maintenance)

To ensure that production equipment is properly maintained, I implement a comprehensive maintenance strategy that includes the following steps:

• Scheduled Preventive Maintenance: Regularly scheduled maintenance tasks based on the manufacturer’s recommendations and industry best practices.
• Routine Inspections: Daily or weekly inspections to identify any potential issues before they escalate into major problems.
• Record Keeping: Maintaining detailed records of all maintenance activities to track the equipment’s history and predict future maintenance needs.
• Training: Ensuring that all team members are properly trained on the correct operation and basic maintenance of the equipment they use.

The effectiveness of these measures is assessed regularly to ensure the highest level of equipment reliability and uptime.

Q18. Can you explain your experience with inventory management and control? (Inventory Management)

Throughout my career, I have managed various inventory systems, both manual and digital, for efficient stock control. My experience includes:

• Forecasting: Using historical data and sales trends to predict inventory needs.
• Just-In-Time Inventory: Implementing JIT systems to reduce holding costs and minimize excess stock.
• Stock Audits: Conducting regular stock audits to ensure that the inventory records match the physical stock.
• Inventory Turnover: Focusing on inventory turnover rates to optimize buying decisions and reduce obsolescence.

I have also utilized inventory management software to streamline these processes, improve accuracy, and provide real-time data for decision-making.

Q19. What metrics do you track regularly to assess production performance? (Performance Metrics)

To assess production performance, I regularly track a range of metrics, which include:

• Throughput: Measures the amount of product produced within a given time frame.
• Efficiency: Compares actual output to potential output within a set period.
• Quality Rates: Monitors the percentage of products that meet quality standards.
• Downtime: Tracks the amount of time production is stopped due to equipment or process failures.

Here’s a table summarizing some key production metrics:

Metric	Description	Importance
Throughput	The quantity of goods produced during a time period	High
Efficiency	Ratio of actual output to standard output	High
Quality Rate	Percentage of products that meet quality criteria	Critical
Downtime	Total time production is halted due to various issues	Moderate to High

Q20. How do you implement sustainable practices in production management? (Sustainability)

Implementing sustainable practices in production management is crucial for environmental stewardship and long-term business success. Here’s how I approach sustainability:

• Resource Efficiency: Optimize the use of raw materials and energy to minimize waste.
• Recycling: Implement systems for recycling materials and byproducts where possible.
• Supplier Selection: Choose suppliers who also engage in sustainable practices.
• Eco-friendly Equipment: Invest in equipment with lower energy consumption and emissions.
• Employee Training: Educate employees on sustainable practices and encourage them to contribute ideas for improvements.

By integrating these practices, we can significantly reduce the environmental impact of production processes and enhance the overall sustainability of the business.

Q21. Describe how you manage relationships with vendors and suppliers. (Vendor & Supplier Relations)

How to Answer:
When discussing relationships with vendors and suppliers, emphasize your communication skills, your approach to negotiation, and your strategies for building long-term partnerships. Mention any specific systems or processes you use to evaluate and select vendors, monitor their performance, and ensure they meet your company’s standards and requirements.

My Answer:
Managing relationships with vendors and suppliers is critical for ensuring a smooth production process. I prioritize clear and consistent communication, setting expectations from the outset, and maintaining a professional yet collaborative approach.

• Communication: Regular meetings and updates help in keeping both parties informed about the ongoing processes, changes, and feedback.
• Negotiations: I ensure that terms of contract and negotiations are mutually beneficial, focusing on creating win-win situations.
• Performance Evaluation: Implementing regular performance reviews against key metrics, such as delivery times, quality, and cost.
• Long-term Partnerships: Building relationships based on trust and reliability, which include loyalty programs, volume discounts, and collaborative planning for future needs.
• Problem Resolution: Addressing any issues promptly and working together to find solutions while maintaining a positive relationship.

Q22. How do you assess and manage production risks? (Risk Management)

How to Answer:
For risk management, highlight your ability to identify potential risks before they become issues, describe the tools or frameworks you use for risk assessment, and explain how you prioritize and address risks. Share any past experiences where you successfully mitigated production risks.

My Answer:
Assessing and managing production risks involves a proactive approach, which includes:

• Risk Identification: Through brainstorming sessions, SWOT analysis, and historical data review to identify potential risks.
• Risk Assessment: Evaluating the probability and impact of identified risks using a risk matrix.

Risk	Probability	Impact	Priority
Machine Downtime	High	Medium	High
Supply Delay	Medium	High	High
Quality Issues	Low	High	Medium

• Risk Mitigation: Developing strategies to reduce the likelihood or impact of risks. For example, having backup suppliers or investing in preventive maintenance for equipment.
• Monitoring: Continuously tracking risk indicators and adjusting mitigation strategies as necessary.
• Contingency Planning: Having plans in place for potential scenarios to minimize disruption to production.

Q23. What methodologies do you use for quality assurance during production? (Quality Assurance)

How to Answer:
Share specific quality assurance methodologies and how they are integrated into the production process. Mention any certifications or industry standards you adhere to and any tools or techniques you employ to maintain quality.

My Answer:
For quality assurance, I employ a combination of methodologies to ensure the highest quality of production:

• Six Sigma: Utilizing DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) framework for continuous improvement.
• Lean Manufacturing: Focusing on value-add activities and eliminating waste to improve quality.
• ISO Standards: Adhering to ISO 9001 standards for a systematic approach to quality management.
• Statistical Process Control (SPC): Using data-driven decision-making to monitor and control production processes.
• Root Cause Analysis: When issues arise, conducting thorough investigations to prevent recurrence.

Q24. How would you handle a significant change in product demand? (Adaptability & Scalability)

How to Answer:
Discuss your ability to adapt to changing market conditions and customer demands. Explain how you forecast demand, plan for scalability, and adjust production schedules, inventory, and resource allocation to align with demand fluctuations.

My Answer:
Handling a significant change in product demand requires both strategic planning and operational flexibility:

• Demand Forecasting: Using market analysis and historical data to predict changes in demand.
• Scalable Processes: Designing production systems that can be easily scaled up or down.
• Agile Scheduling: Adjusting production schedules to align with current demand without sacrificing quality or delivery times.
• Inventory Management: Balancing inventory levels to be responsive to demand changes while minimizing excess stock.
• Supplier Relationships: Working closely with suppliers to ensure they can meet changing requirements.

Q25. Describe how you’ve used software tools for production management in the past. (Software Proficiency)

How to Answer:
Here, provide specific examples of the software tools you have used for production management, highlighting the features that you found most integral to your work. Describe how these tools helped you achieve efficiency, accuracy, and real-time decision-making.

My Answer:
In previous roles, I’ve utilized various software tools to enhance production management:

• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP): Software like SAP or Oracle for integrating all facets of an operation, including product planning, development, manufacturing processes, sales, and marketing.
• Project Management Tools: Applications like Microsoft Project and Trello for scheduling, resource allocation, and tracking progress.
• Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES): For real-time tracking of the production floor activities and improving production efficiency.
• Inventory Management Systems: Tools like Fishbowl and NetSuite to manage stock levels, orders, and deliveries.
• Quality Management Software: Implementing programs like Minitab for statistical analysis and quality control.

4. Tips for Preparation

Before walking into the interview, dive deep into the company’s production methods, product lines, and industry standing. Understanding their operations will allow you to tailor your answers to show how your skills can benefit them specifically. Focus on reviewing core production management principles, lean methodologies, and relevant software you might be expected to use.

Brush up on your leadership and problem-solving examples, as these soft skills are crucial in a production management role. Anticipate questions about crisis management and team leadership, and prepare structured responses using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to concisely convey your experiences.

5. During & After the Interview

During the interview, exude confidence and clarity. Interviewers are looking for a candidate who can not only manage production efficiently but also lead teams and communicate effectively. Pay attention to non-verbal cues, maintain good posture, and be concise with your answers, showing you value the interviewer’s time.

Avoid common pitfalls such as speaking negatively about previous employers or appearing too rigid in your methods. Be prepared with insightful questions for the interviewer to demonstrate your interest in the role and the company, such as asking about their biggest production challenges or the team you’ll be working with.

After the interview, send a personalized thank-you email to express gratitude for the opportunity and to reiterate your interest. This follow-up can leave a lasting positive impression. Keep in mind that the feedback process varies by company, but typically you can expect to hear back within a couple of weeks. If you haven’t heard anything by then, it’s appropriate to send a polite follow-up to inquire about the status of your application.