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What to Say When Emailing a Resume (with Examples)

10 min read · Updated on June 12, 2024

Introduce yourself professionally when you email your resume

You've written the perfect resume and tailored it to the role you're aspiring to. What should you do next? A few years back, you'd have printed it off on some quality paper, addressed an envelope in your best handwriting, posted it off, and settled in to wait for a response. These days, though, it's more common to email your resume. It's faster, it's more professional, and it's easier to share a file than a printout.

But if you're going to email your resume, what should you say? Should you attach a cover letter? How much detail should you include? 

So many questions! 

But fear not, TopResume is here to help you decide what to say when emailing a resume, and we have answers to all these questions and more. Settle in as we guide you through it.

Should I email my resume?

Yes! It's absolutely fine to email your resume when you apply for a job. In fact, it's usually preferred to printed correspondence these days. Of course, the most important point is that you should follow the instructions on the job posting. If it requests a printed resume or a resume uploaded via an online portal, you should definitely apply in line with those instructions. However, if there are no specific instructions, an email application is advisable. Just make sure you're addressing it to the right person!

General rules for emailing your resume

Before we get into the specifics, let's refresh on some general guidelines for emailing your resume to a company. After all, first impressions count, so using proper email etiquette is important.

Use a professional email address. “ HotLips69@...” may have seemed cool and funny when you set up the account, but does it really convey that you're a credible professional? If necessary, set up a new email account to use for job applications – and remember to check it regularly for responses!

Add a clear subject line. Make the point of your email clear with a logical  subject line – you could include the job title of the vacancy you're applying for, for example, or refer to the fact that the email is a job application or resume.

Choose a professional greeting. Think “Dear [name],” or even just “[name],” rather than “Hiya” or “Greetings.” While email is less formal than a letter, you still need to keep the tone professional.

Be concise. Short,  snappy paragraphs are easier to read on a screen, and no one wants to trudge through pages of waffle to find the information they need. Respect the reader's time by keeping it simple.

Add a formal sign-off. A version of “thank you” and your name is sufficient – you may also want to add your professional title, a contact number, and a link to your portfolio if you have one.

Don't forget the attachments! Make sure that you've actually attached your resume (and your cover letter, if required). Ensure they have sensible file names, too: “Jay Miller – Resume” or “J Miller – Sales Executive Resume” is more professional and easier to retrieve than something like “JM 010224 v3” or simply “Resume.” Also, double-check the file type that you're sending – check out our article  Word vs PDF  if you're not sure.

What to say when emailing your resume – the detail

So now we've reviewed the basics of email etiquette, let's get down to business. You need to know what to say when emailing a resume. Well, the exact wording will vary depending on the situation, the role, and your personality, but you'll certainly need to include the following:

Why you're emailing

Your reader may have a ton of open vacancies and is likely to receive many resumes for each one. Make their life easier by clearly stating the role you're interested in applying for. If you have a reference number for the vacancy, you can include that too.

Your elevator pitch

Briefly explain who you are , what you do, and why you're the right person for the open role. This doesn't need to take up a lot of space or be very detailed – the key thing here is to be convincing enough for them to want to open your resume document to find out more. Include whatever information is most pertinent to the role – that could be your academic qualifications, your industry experience, awards and accolades, or particular skills. Refer to the job posting to find out what the company wants to see in a successful candidate and ensure the requirements are reflected in your email.

A call to action

Encourage the reader to open your resume, reach out with further questions, or schedule an interview. This one little line can show your enthusiasm for the role, emphasize your professionalism, and prompt your reader to take the next step in progressing your application.

What to say when emailing a resume – sample messages

Do you need a bit more inspiration to craft your message? Take a look at these sample emails and use them as a frame for your own resume email. Remember, the job advert is your cheat sheet when it comes to deciding what details to prioritize here.

What to say when cold emailing a resume

To: Katie French

From: Matthew Cole

Subject: Sales resume

I've long admired XYZ Inc. as a leading supplier of home tech solutions and have heard many positive reviews about your company as an employer. To that end, I am attaching my resume in the event that a sales vacancy may soon arise.

As you can see, I have enjoyed a successful 10-year career in technology sales and am a committed user and advocate of your products. This year, I am on track to exceed my sales target by 46%. I would bring an extensive network of industry contacts and a proven ability to motivate sales teams to surpass expectations.

If there are no suitable vacancies at the moment, please feel free to keep my resume on file for future reference. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Matthew Cole

Sales Manager, Acme Products

What to say when emailing a resume in response to a job posting

Subject: Sales Executive vacancy (Ref: ABC123)

In response to your advertisement for a Sales Executive, I am attaching my resume. As you can see, I combine eight years of sales experience with a degree in Marketing and three awards for excellence in sales roles. 

The advertised role is particularly interesting to me, as it will allow me to leverage my expertise in technical sales, provide the opportunity for international growth, and establish trusted relationships with your clients to open new avenues for revenue and increased sales.

Please don't hesitate to reach out to me if you have any questions; I look forward to discussing my suitability further with you at an interview.Thank you for your consideration,

Sales Executive, Acme Products

What to say when emailing a resume to a recruiter

Subject: Healthcare Roles

Dear Katie,

I saw on JobBoard.com that you are recruiting for several healthcare roles, and would like to submit my resume for your consideration. I combine 10 years' experience as a Healthcare Assistant with numerous industry certifications and consistently receive positive patient feedback.

I look forward to hearing from you,

What to say when emailing a resume to follow up on a conversation

Subject: Finance Manager follow-up

Following our phone discussion earlier today, I would like to reiterate my interest in the Finance Manager position and attach my resume for your consideration.

As you can see, I am currently fulfilling the Finance Manager role at XYZ Company and am looking forward to developing my career within a global organization. I have a master's degree in Business Administration, as well as extensive experience in managing the finance function within a security business. I look forward to bringing my leadership skills to your team of finance experts.

Please reach out to me at 555-555-5555 when you have had a chance to review my attached resume.Regards,

Finance Manager, XYZ Company

What to say when emailing a resume following a referral

Subject: Events Manager vacancy

Dear Ms French,

Please find attached my resume. I have been referred to the Events Manager position by one of your colleagues, John Day, who I previously worked with at ABC Inc. Having delivered many successful events with John as my manager, I'm flattered that he has now asked me to apply for your open role. 

I've recently delivered a conference for 800 international delegates and a team building event for 5 national teams, both of which were very well received and were completed within challenging budgets. I am confident that I can bring a similar level of client satisfaction to DEF Inc. and look forward to discussing the position further with you.

Please don't hesitate to get in touch to schedule an interview at your convenience,

555-555-5555

Should you attach a cover letter when emailing a resume?

Now we've covered what to say when emailing a resume, it's time to consider the cover letter. As you can see, we recommend that the body of the email be kept short and concise. If you feel the need to include more detail, you can consider attaching a cover letter as well as a resume. There's no obligation to do this unless a letter is specifically requested as part of the application instructions, but it does give you the opportunity to expand on key points of interest.

Top tip: You may like to read our article on  how to write a cover letter to make sure you get this part of your application bang on!

How long does it take to hear back after emailing a resume?

Don't panic if you don't hear back immediately! While email is a speedy way to apply, recruiters and hiring managers receive many resumes for every open role and need time to sift through them, create shortlists, and schedule interviews. That said, certain recruiters have a reputation for ghosting unsuitable candidates, or your application may simply have been overlooked, so there's no harm in following up after a week or two if you haven't heard anything.  

What to write in a follow-up email

Subject: Communications Assistant vacancy (ref: 12345)

I emailed my resume to you last week in response to your advertisement for a Communications Assistant. I just wanted to check that you'd received it, and to reiterate that I remain very interested in the role.

If you didn't receive the resume or have further questions regarding my application, please do get in touch with me either via email or by phone at 555-555-5555.

Email with confidence

Now you know what to say when emailing your resume in any situation, you're ready to apply for your dream job! Use this checklist to make sure you've nailed it before you hit the send button:

Correct email address and personalized greeting

Appropriate subject line

Clarification of the role you're applying for

Elevator pitch

Call to action

Professional sign-off

Attachments attached

Final proofread

If you feel that your resume isn't quite ready to be unleashed upon the world, why not get an expert opinion? Our free resume review will explain which areas need further work before you submit your application.

Recommended reading:

How to Write the Perfect Goodbye Email to Co-Workers & Clients

The Networking Email That Works Every Time

How To Use AI To Prepare For A Job Interview

Related Articles:

Guide to Writing a Great Resume with No Work Experience

How To Write a Sick Leave Letter (with Template and Example)

Resume Mistakes: Red Flags Employers Are Looking For

See how your resume stacks up.

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How to Email a Resume and Cover Letter Attachment

Sample Email for a Job Application With Attachment

Ashley Nicole DeLeon / The Balance

Depending on the job for which you're applying, you may need to attach your resume and cover letter to an email as you reach out to the hiring manager. That's often the case with smaller employers. For other employers, you'll generally apply online or via a job board, but you'll still want to know how to properly attach a resume and cover letter in case you're coordinating any interviews via email.

What's the easiest way to attach your resume and cover letter to an email message? When you're asked to send a resume or cover letter via email, follow these steps to ensure you have correctly attached your documents. You'll also want to explain what you are sending and why, add your signature to the email, and include a subject line that will get your message opened and read by the recipient.

Key Takeaways

• Most employers request a Microsoft Word document or a PDF file of your resume. 
• It's easy to save your documents in the file format requested by an employer.
• When saving your documents, use your name as the file name.
• Include a subject line that states who you are and what job you are applying for in the email message.

Check the Employer's Instructions

When you apply for jobs via email , the employer may require you to send your resume and cover letter as an attachment to an email message. It's important to send your attachments correctly, include all the information you need so your email message is opened and read, and let the receiver know how they can contact you to schedule an interview.

What's most important is to follow the employer's instructions and send exactly what they have asked for in the format it's requested. If you don't, your message may end up in a spam or trash folder.

Save Your Cover Letter and Resume

When sending your cover letter and resume attachments, the first step is to save your resume as a PDF or a Word document. The job posting should specify how to send the attachment. This way, the receiver will get a copy of the resume in the original format.

If there aren't instructions on how to send your documents, submit your resume as either a Microsoft Word document (.doc or .docx) or as a PDF file. These are the formats most commonly preferred by employers, and it's easy to save the documents and add them as attachments to your email message.

You can either save your cover letter in document format or write it directly in the email message.

Save as a Word Document

If you have word processing software other than Microsoft Word, save your resume as a Word (.doc or .docx) document. Select File , then Save As .

Save a Google Doc as a Word Document

If you don't have Microsoft Word, you can save a Word (.docx) version of a Google Doc. Select File then Download and choose Word Document (.docx).

How to Save as a PDF

Whether the employer requests a PDF file or you opt to send a PDF, here's how to convert a document file.

To save a Word document as a PDF:

• Select  File then Save As  in Microsoft Word.
• Select  PDF  from the  Format  drop-down menu.

To save a Google Doc as a PDF:

• Select  File then Download and choose  PDF Document .

Choose a Unique File Name

When saving your document, use your name as the file name , so the employer knows whose resume and cover letter it is, i.e., janedoeresume.doc or janedoecoverletter.doc.

Don't simply use "resume" as a file name because it will be hard to differentiate your resume from those of the other applicants.

Include a Subject in the Email Message

The subject line is one of the most important parts of the email messages you send to apply for jobs. If you don't include one, your message may not even get opened. 

Your email message must include a subject line, and it should explain to the reader who you are and what job you are applying for. Be specific, so the recipient knows what he or she is receiving. Employers often hire for many positions at the same time, so include both your name and the job title.

Add a subject to the email message before you start writing it. That way, you won't forget to include it afterward.

Here's what to write:

Subject: Your Name - Job Title

If the employer requests additional information, like a job ID number, be sure to include that too.

Write an Email Message to Send With Your Resume

Once you have saved your resume and cover letter, and they are ready to send, the next step is to write an email message to send with your documents.

First, open your email account. Then click on Message at the top left of the screen or click on File > New > Message .

You can either write your cover letter as part of the email message or send it as an attachment. Here's how:

Write Directly in the Email

You can either type your cover letter directly into the email message , copy and paste it from a word processing document, or if the company requests an attachment, send your cover letter and resume with the email message. So, your choices are to send a cover letter attachment or to use the email message as your cover letter.

If you are attaching a cover letter, your email message can be brief. Simply state that your resume and cover letter are attached. Offer to provide additional information and let the reader know how you can be contacted.

Be sure to follow the directions in the job posting for how to apply when sending your cover letter and resume or your application may not be considered.

Adding Your Signature to the Email

It is important to include an email signature with your contact information, so it's easy for hiring managers and recruiters to get in touch with you.

Include your full name, your email address, and your phone number in your email signature, so the hiring manager can see, at a glance, how to contact you. If you have a LinkedIn profile , include it in your signature. Do the same with any other social media accounts you use for career and business purposes.

Sample Email Signature

Jared Harshbarner jared.harshbarner@email.com 617-123-3790 linkedin.com/in/jared.harshbarner

How to Add Your Signature

To add your signature to your email message, click on File > Insert > Signature if you have a signature saved that you use for job searching. If you haven't created an email signature, type your contact information (name, email address, phone, LinkedIn) at the bottom of your message.

Attach Your Resume and Cover Letter to an Email Message

Once your email message is ready to send, you need to attach your resume and cover letter to your message:

Click on Insert > Attach File. Your email client will display a list of files in the default file folder of your computer. If your resume and cover letter are stored in a different folder, click on the appropriate folder.

Click to select the file you want to add to your email message , and then click on Insert to attach the document to your email message. Take the time to carefully proofread the message before you send it.

Before you click Send , send the message to yourself to be sure all the attachments come through, and your email message is perfect.

Send a copy of the message to yourself, as well as to the company, so you have a copy for your records. Add yourself as a BCC (blind carbon copy) by clicking BCC and adding your email address.

Then click Send , and your cover letter and your resume will be on their way to the employer.

Review a Sample Email Message

Here's a sample email message sent with resume and cover letter attachments to apply for a job.

Subject: Sarah Smith – Museum Docent

Dear Ms. Cooper,

I’m writing to apply for the summer docent program at the Museum of Local History.

I have extensive docent experience, having volunteered at both the Harbor Museum and ABC Art, and have led tours both as a student leader and a member of the town historical society. In addition, I’m a lifelong town resident and an enthusiastic amateur historian.

I’ve attached my cover letter and resume for your review. I hope you’ll contact me at your convenience to discuss the program and arrange an interview. Thank you for your time.

Sarah Smith sarah.smith@email.com 555-555-1234 linkedin.com/in/sarahsmith

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it better to send a word document or a pdf to apply for a job.

A PDF file retains the format of your resume and letter, so the recipient will see them as you wrote them when they open the file(s) you sent. A Word document is easily read by the Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) that employers use to manage job applications. What's most important is to follow the company's application guidelines.

How can I be sure my documents are formatted correctly?

Send a test message, and email your resume and cover letter to yourself before you send it to the employer. That way, you'll know your documents are formatted and attached correctly.

ZipJob. “ Should You Send Your Resume as a PDF or Word Doc? "

Google. " Create, View, or Download a File ."

Microsoft. " Save or Convert to PDF or XPS in Office Desktop Apps ."

Adobe. " How to Convert a Google Doc to a PDF ."

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What To Write in an Email When Sending a Resume to an Employer? (+3 Email Templates)

• Klara Cervenanska , 
• Updated January 12, 2024 7 min read

Have you found a job posting that asks you to submit your resume via email? Or maybe you’ve decided to approach your dream company directly. If so, you’re probably asking yourself right now — what to write in an email when sending my resume so I will stand out?

Sometimes employers provide clear instructions on what the email format should include. If that’s the case, follow the employer’s directions closely. 

But if you can’t find any instructions, don’t worry — you can follow the best practices described in this article!

Additionally, there are also 3 email templates for what to write in an email when sending a resume to an employer that you can download and edit to your liking.

Table of Contents

Click on a section to skip

3 sample emails for sending your resume to recruiters:

How to email a resume: a few tips to keep in mind before sending the email.

• Write an effective subject line. It's the first thing they're going to see

Email body for sending a resume: Keep it crisp, yet formal

Attaching files — resume and cover letter, what should you do before sending your email, what to write in your resume email key takeaways.

Feel free to use any of these templates as your first draft.

#1 Template of an email to send with your resume

#2 template of an email to send with your resume, #3 template of an email to send with your resume.

Additionally, these 10 more job application email templates will give you the help you need at any stage of the hiring process.

Finally, if you already have a fantastic LinkedIn profile but no resume, there's no need to write your CV from scratch. You can  convert your LinkedIn profile into resume  in seconds.

Before you start writing, ask yourself this:   Who is the person you're writing to?

Try to find the hiring manager's contact details so you can address them by name. A slightly more personal approach can decrease the chance of your resume being forgotten or disposed of.

Remember that   your email address needs to be professional . Emails like julezizcoolz@yahoo may have been cool in 2005, but not anymore. Instead, create a professional email address that consists of your first and last name.

You should also consider when to email your resume. In general, you want your email to be among the first ones they receive that day. This means you should send it very early — ideally before 8am.

The same applies for days of week. The later in the week you send your email, the lower the probability that someone reviews it. This is why you should send it very early on a Monday morning.

Naturally, do not put off applying if it's a first come first serve kind of job application. 

Key takeaways:

• Look up the hiring manager's contact details;
• Your email address needs to be professional;
• Send it on a Monday, ideally well before 8am;

Write an effective subject line. It's the first thing they're going to see

Sure, the subject line is just a tiny part of the whole email. However, it's also the very first thing the recruiter is going to see. That's why you want the subject line of your resume email to be absolutely spot on.

First of all, check the job posting for instructions regarding the submission. There may be a preferred subject format the company uses. If that's the case, then you need to stick to it.

However, if there are no instructions, you should stick to the standard format for subject lines :

• Subject: ‘Job application’ – Job title, Job ID (if applicable) — Your Name
• Example: Job application – Office Manager, Job ID #1553 — Ian Lumberjack
• Example (with referral): Referral from John Wick: Job application – Graphic Designer, Job ID #1554  — Nina Hughes

If someone recommended you for the job, definitely make this clear in the subject line. You can add your title or qualification if you wish — but remember, keep the subject line succinct.

Start off with a formal greeting and address the hiring manager by name (preferably last name).

In the first short paragraph you should state who you are, why you are sending this email and what the email contains.

Continue the next paragraph with a short but effective introduction of your best and proudest achievements. Of course, only mention those achievements that are relevant for the job. Close this paragraph by saying what value you would bring to the company and which skills you will use to accomplish this.

In the closing paragraph you need to say that you're looking forward to hearing back from them and meeting in person. You may add a captivating call for action   but be careful not to sound rude or overly keen.

Yours faithfully (US English) or Yours sincerely  (British English).

And finally, a professional signature is a must! Remember to include your contact details.

[Your name]

[Your job title]

[Email address]

[Phone number]

[LinkedIn profile] -  optional 

Remember, you want to keep the body of the email short and succinct. Don't go in too much detail otherwise you might loose the hiring manager's attention. 

Keep in mind that you simply cannot elaborate on every accomplishment and every work experience due to limited space. The email needs to be informative and concise.

This should go without saying but, don't forget to attach your resume to the email! 

Consider whether it's relevant to also attach your cover letter . When you apply for a job in bigger companies you may actually benefit from sending your cover letter as well as your resume. Just remember not to repeat yourself too much in your email body and your cover letter.

Avoid naming the attachments generically or randomly. Names like fghjvh.pdf or resume2.pdf can make it hard for the hiring manager to find these documents later. Name your a ttachments in a way that makes them easy to find   — Name_Surname_Resume.pdf and Name_Surname_Cover_Letter.pdf

The best format for sending your resume and cover letter is .pdf or .doc. We suggest saving your documents as  PDFs , since it's a universally accepted file format, it's easy to open and will not distort the formatting of your documents.

If you’re considering sending a video resume, you should know  how to convert video to MP4 , as it’s the most common format supported across different browsers and devices.

Keep in mind that files should not be larger than 10MB. Otherwise  they might be considered suspicious.

Last but not least, before sending it out, get your resume analyzed to make sure it contains everything it should.

• Resume and cover letter need to be sent as attachments;
• Name your attachments in a way that makes them easy to find;
• Save documents in the PDF format;
• Files should not be larger than 10MB.

Before you send the email with your resume and cover letter, you should check it for any spelling or grammatical mistakes.

Having bad grammar is definitely not something you want to be remembered for. Ask a friend to proofread all your documents. It can make a big difference. 

Additionally, it may be a good idea to send yourself a test email to see whether the formatting and layout of the email is up to the expected standard.

Don't forget to test download and open your files. Check whether you've attached the right file(s).

Also, avoid using any colorful fonts, pictures or emoticons. 

We can check your resume for you.

Scan your resume for issues and see how it compares against other resumes in our database.

Sending your resume attached to a well-written email can be a very effective strategy. It can help you find a way around ATS algorithms that filter out unsuitable resumes before they can even get to an HR employee for evaluation.

So how do you write one?

• Before you start writing the email, make sure you know who to address. Knowing the hiring manager's name will make the email feel more personal and decrease the chance of it being forgotten.
• Your resume address should sound professional. Send your resume email early on a Monday morning for maximum effectiveness.
• We have provided you with email templates. No matter which one you choose, remember — keep the email short, informative and professional.
• Attach your resume and cover letter in the PDF format and name them in a way that makes them easy to find, for example  Name_Surname_Resume.pdf and Name_Surname_Cover_Letter.pdf
• After you have written the email and attached the documents, ask someone to proofread it for you to avoid any grammar errors and typos. Lastly, send yourself a test email to check the formatting and test download the files. 

After you send in your resume, cover letter and your job application, wait for a couple of days before sending a follow up email .

Christy's word of advice

For bigger companies, your application will probably be forwarded straight to the ATS, so just a short email referencing the attached cover letter/resume is fine. An exception is if you’ve been referred to them directly, in which case, keep it formal but mention the referee’s name. For smaller companies where your application is more likely to be manually reviewed, showing a bit of personality will help you to stand out.

Christy Morgan, Resident HR Expert

Concluding thought — even if you construct the perfect email to send with your resume, you still need to make sure you have an impressive resume and cover letter.  

We've got you covered. Check out these articles to help you create the perfect resume and cover letter:

• How to Write a Resume: The Only Resume Guide You’ll Need in 2024
• The Only Cover Letter Guide You’ll Need in 2024 (+Examples)

When emailing your resume to a hiring manager, start with a formal greeting using their last name. In the first paragraph, briefly introduce yourself and explain the purpose of your email. Next, highlight your most relevant and proud achievements, linking them to the value you can bring to the company and the skills you'll use to achieve this. Conclude by expressing your eagerness to hear back and the hope of meeting them in person. Sign off with "Yours faithfully" (US English) or "Yours sincerely" (British English), and include a professional signature with your contact details.

When sending your resume to a hiring manager via email, the subject should always include your name and purpose, e.g. Job application – Job title — Your Name .

In your email when sending a resume with a reference, briefly introduce yourself, mention the position you're applying for, and how you came to know about it. Specifically mention your reference's name and your relationship with them . Then continue by highlighting your most relevant and proud achievements, linking them to the value you can bring to the company. Conclude by expressing your eagerness to hear back and meeting them in person. Sign off.

Klara graduated from the University of St Andrews in Scotland. After having written resumes for many of her fellow students, she began writing full-time for Kickresume. Klara is our go-to person for all things related to student or 'no experience resumes'. At the same time, she has written some of the most popular resume advice articles on this blog. Her pieces were featured in multiple CNBC articles. When she's not writing, you'll probably find her chasing dogs or people-watching while sipping on a cup of coffee.

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Dive Into Expert Guides to Enhance your Resume

How to Email a Resume and Cover Letter to an Employer

When you are job hunting,  emailing your resume and cover letter  is a standard part of the process. But what is  the best way to email a resume ?

Potential employers are very quick to judge so it is essential to  make a positive first impression . The email you send is the first thing they see so it is important to get it right.

If you have spent time writing an attractive  professional resume  it would be tragic to fall at the first hurdle by making a mistake when you  email a resume and cover letter .

Thankfully, it is not rocket science. Using this step-by-step on  how to email a resume to a potential employer  will help to get your resume noticed.

Follow the employers’ instructions

When you are  sending your resume by email  it is important to follow the employer’s instructions to the letter. Failure to do so will show that you either have not read the job posting properly, or you have poor attention to detail.

The job advert normally gives detailed instructions on  how to send your resume in an email . The details often state the  resume format  you should use, what you should include in the subject line of the email, what attachments you should send, and when the deadline is, among other information.

How to choose the correct resume file format

Employers normally ask for resumes to be sent either as a PDF document or as a Word document (.doc). If the required resume format is not stated in the job posting you can send your  email resume as a .pdf or .doc.

There are various mistakes that candidates make on their resumes, so before you save it, make sure you have avoided the  most common mistakes when writing a resume .

To save your resume as a Word document  click ‘File’, ‘Save as’, then there should be an option to save it as a Word (.doc or .docx) file.

How to save your resume as a PDF  depends on what word processing software you use. Normally, you can click ‘File’, ‘Print to PDF’/’Export as PDF’, and then save the file. Read some tips on  choosing a good resume file name  to make sure that it is named appropriately.

Writing a cover letter

Depending on the position, you might need to  write a cover letter  to provide additional information on your  experience , expertise, why you are  applying for the job , and why you are a good fit for the position.

Sometimes employers give specific instructions on what you should write about in your cover letter, make sure you follow these. The  resume cover letter  should demonstrate why you are a strong candidate for a position.

The cover letter should be as well written as your resume and any other documentation you send an employer.  Use formal English .

There are two email  formats which you can use to include your cover letter . You can either copy and paste it into the main body of the email, or  include it as a PDF or Word document .

If you send the  resume cover email  as an attachment, you still need to write an email for attaching the resume.  Write a  formal email  stating why you are applying for the position and that your resume and cover letter are attached.

How to email a resume to a company: final checklist

Once you have written your  resume email and cover letter ,   there are some crucial things you should check before you send the email. There are some typical rookie mistakes to avoid, using a  resume builder  will help you to achieve this. Here are some final tips on  how to email a resume to a company.

Keep it simple

Do not use a fun, crazy, or alternative font, use a simple one such as Arial, Calibri or Verdana. Also, avoid using HTML as you do not know if the employer will be able to see it.

Send attachments correctly

It is incredible how many people forget to attach their resume to their email. This looks forgetful and amateurish. Double check you have included all the correct attachments before you send the email.

Don’t Forget the Details

The  email with your resume  should include a subject line and a signature with your contact details. The subject line should include the position which you are applying for, if you do not include this your email may never be opened.

Proofread everything many times

Typos and small mistakes look unprofessional. Before you  email a resume,  proofread all of the documentation. Check it for clarity, spelling, and grammar. Also, pay special attention to names.

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Email cover letter

The right tone for an email job application sample:

If you send an introductory email with your resume and cover letter attached, it is an additional opportunity to sell yourself. Why wouldn't you? This email cover letter should never replace your cover letter PDF document (as emails are easily deleted), but it should not be a simplistic "please find my documents attached" one-liner, either.

Hiring managers wouldn't expect you to replicate the entire contents of a cover letter in an email, so does this offer additional opportunities to sell your career story or should you just keep it simple and leave it to a few introductory lines? Our recommendation would be to make the most of the opportunity.

So, where do the potential opportunities of an email cover letter lie?

The following chapters are designed to help you:

• Decide whether to send your cover letter in the body of an email or as an attachment
• Analyze a real cover letter sample to model your email cover letter
• Write the best email cover letter for your prospective employer
• Create an email job application sample that increases your chances of hearing back

What is an email cover letter?

The definition of an email cover letter is pretty straightforward: it’s a cover letter sample sent in the body of an email as opposed to one that’s sent through an online application portal or as an attachment to an email.

You might attached the normal cover letter (as an attachment can be then sent to other people and not lost in an email chain), but as every email will be likely read to the end, the content that you share can make an impact.

While an email cover letter might not be seen as a formal part of the application process, it is your opportunity to stand out from the crowd. While you should definitely keep it short and sweet, the fact that you are putting some thought into the content will set you apart from the vast majority of other candidates who make do with a one-liner about attaching their resume and cover letter. That formality is simply a missed opportunity.

Email job application sample

To get you started, here’s an email job application sample (or email cover letter sample) that was designed based on real hiring practices and recruiter experience:

As you can see, this application letter example is based on a job opening for an Executive Assistant position, but you can use this as inspiration for your own cover letter. Accomplishments are front and center, examples are quantified and every part of the story is relevant to the role in question. You can also check out our library of free cover letter examples , perhaps you’ll find your own profession or industry there.

People will read emails on various devices and screen sizes, so keep paragraphs short and bullet points tight. A wall of text is somewhat off-putting, so make your email cover letter easy to scan. Lead with the most important pieces of information and make sure that you quantify any achievements. Numbers always jump off the page.

To determine whether you might choose to insert a similar cover letter into the email directly or send it as an attachment, read on below.

Make sure that you keep a copy of the email for future reference. You could either trawl through your sent items or alternatively you could BCC it to your email address and organize a folder that collates all of your job search email correspondence. Why waste time and energy looking for an email that you sent three weeks ago?

Do you write a cover letter in an email or attach it?

The answer to whether you should paste your cover letter into the body of the email or attach it largely depends on the job description. A hiring manager will usually instruct you as to how they want the cover letter to be delivered. Some job postings will even tell you which subject line to use. Make sure to follow the instructions exactly, since any deviation may cause a hiring manager to pass over your application.

If submitting as an attachment: This is the easier of the two options since you’ll simply need to attach your existing cover letter file to the email. You should still write a few introductory sentences in the body space of the email in order to bring the hiring manager’s attention to the attached cover letter (and other application materials.) Just how much information you include in the body of the email itself is up to you. For everything you need to know about writing a great cover letter, check out our cover letter guide complete with examples!

You can refer to the email cover letter example in the chapter directly above this one when you’re submitting a cover letter as an attachment. Obviously, you can also do both.

And here’s a simple idea of what you can write in the body for that same email cover letter example.

Dear (Hiring manager’s name),

I’d like to submit my application for the position of XYZ at (Company name). You’ll find my CV, cover letter and work samples attached to this email.

Thank you for your consideration,

(Your name)

If you’re wondering how to send an email with an attachment, here’s a quick overview: click the icon to compose a new email. Fill out the To and Subject fields. Write a few sentences in the body paragraph referencing the attachment of the application materials. Click on the paperclip icon to open your file browser. Navigate to your cover letter file and click “open.” Your cover letter is now attached!

Don’t forget to change the file name to something descriptive, even if it’s as simple as Last name_cover letter . This simple step ensures the hiring manager will keep track of your cover letter throughout the application process.

If sending in the body of the email: You’ll have to pay a bit more attention to how you send your cover letter in the body of an email. Brevity is key, so you’ll want to pick and choose only the most relevant examples from your full cover letter. Keep your email cover letter sample to a maximum of three short paragraphs plus the greeting and signature. 

Here are the steps:

• Address the hiring manager by name whenever possible or use “Dear Hiring Manager.”
• Introduce yourself and mention the position you are applying for.
• Offer 1-2 related accomplishments or skills that make you an excellent candidate.
• Finish your email cover letter with a call to action that invites the hiring manager to contact you.
• How to end a cover letter with a respectful signature like “Sincerely” followed by your name.

One benefit of an email cover letter is that you can include hyperlinks. You might choose to link to your online resume or LinkedIn profile and you could equally link to a longer cover letter. One drawback is that an email cover letter cannot be saved in many ATS systems, so think carefully if you decide not to attach a cover letter.

Here’s an short email cover letter example for an attached resume:

Dear Mrs. Greenspan,

It was great to hear you speak at last week’s Women in Marketing event. I have attached my resume to apply for the position of associate marketing manager with DGI Global. I believe my six years of experience running digital ad campaigns for target audiences has prepared me for your role.

In my last position, I developed advertising strategy for an up-and-coming clothing brand. During my three years with the company, I grew our Instagram account from 300 follows to over a quarter million. Via targeted ad placement and the creation of an innovative web gallery, I increased the company’s online sales by more than 15 percent last year. 

I’d love to speak with you more about my ideas for expanding DGI’s online presence within the marketing manager role. Feel free to reach me by email or at 446-731-0080. I look forward to hearing from you.

Trisha Roberts

If the job description doesn’t tell you how to submit your cover letter, you’ll have to make an educated guess. First, consider whether you’re being asked to send other application materials as attachments. If a cover letter is just one document in a long list, you’ll likely want to write a brief introductory email with the full cover letter and all the other materials included as attachments.

Conversely, if a cover letter isn’t mentioned at all, you can write it into the body of your email as a way of weaving it into the application naturally. Below you can find a great example of an email cover letter with attached resume that you can modify for your own needs.

Here is exactly how you can write a cover letter that will stand out from the crowd, and help you land that interview.

How do you write an email cover letter?

When it comes to how you should write an email cover letter, there are a few adjustments you may want to make in terms of formatting and tone.

Email cover letter format:

One major distinction of an email cover letter format is that it lacks a header. Therefore, it’s important that you incorporate key pieces of personal information into the final sentences. Sign off with your full name and include your phone number in your call to action or in your email’s automatic signature. That’s also a great place to link to your LinkedIn, relevant social media accounts, online portfolio or personal website.

Just like with a standard cover letter, your email cover letter format should also be highly readable. Use standard email font styles and sizes with the color black. Don’t forget to include a blank space (or maybe two) between each paragraph. 

When submitting your email cover letter sample as an attachment, an email cover letter template can make great formatting an easy process. Our professional cover letter templates are expertly-designed for a variety of industries. Make sure to choose the template that best fits the image and branding of the prospective employer.

A great introduction can set the tone of the rest of the interview and give the employer (and yourself!) confidence in your skills and abilities. Here’s everything you need to know when it comes to making a great introduction.

There are a number of reasons why your email job application sample may be more flexible in tone than a traditional cover letter submitted through an online application portal.

First of all, if you have a hiring manager’s email address, you likely have their name. In many industries, you won’t want to deviate from the standard greeting of “Dear” followed by the proper salutation and last name. In certain fields, however, using a last name can come across as overly formal and out of touch. If that’s the case, you may want to use “Hi” or “Hello” followed by a first name for a more personal touch.

One exception to the above guidelines regarding tone is if you are writing an internship application email sample. Since you are likely a student emailing someone in a more senior role, it’s best to stick with a semi-formal tone that expresses your enthusiasm while still being polite. No need to go over the top with pleasantries, just make sure your internship application email sample conveys respect for the hiring manager’s time.

Another reason you might be emailing your job application sample is because you already know the hiring manager. Maybe you’ve worked at the company previously or have another connection that afforded you the opportunity to apply directly. In that case, you don’t want your email job application sample to sound like it’s coming from a complete stranger! Adjust your tone based on your previous relationship so that your email cover letter sample sounds natural and friendly.

There’s a knack for writing cover letters that are not too long or not too short for their intended purpose. Resume.io is here to walk you through the Goldilocks guidelines for getting “just right” winning results.

Key Takeaways

While you do not want a hiring manager to waste their time reading the same information in your email cover letter that is included in the cover letter document that you have attached, there is great value in making the two slightly different and taking the additional opportunity of impressing them.

• Make sure that you follow the typical rules for cover letter content
• Include many of the same accomplishments, but present them slightly differently
• Understand that the tone of an email can be slightly warmer and less formal than a cover letter
• Include all contact information and social links in the footer section of the email (not at the top)
• write one if you know the hiring manager, but be careful as others may read it as well

Now that you've successfully written an email cover letter, take a peak at our field-tested cover letters . These professional cover letter templates follow the exact ‘cover letter rules’ employers look for. 

• Career Blog

Email Cover Letter: 10 Examples & Writing Tips for 2024

Email has become a ubiquitous form of communication that is widely used in most industries. While email is mostly used to communicate with colleagues and clients, it has become an essential tool for job seekers looking to send their resumes to potential employers.

Since the introduction of email, the traditional cover letter has undergone significant changes. Today, job seekers are expected to attach an email cover letter to their resume. Unlike the traditional cover letter that is printed on paper and sent in an envelope, an email cover letter is sent as an email attachment along with the resume.

Employers receive hundreds of resumes for every job posting they advertise. To stand out from the rest of the applicants, job seekers need to create a compelling email cover letter that highlights their skills and experience.

Importance of Email Cover Letter

An email cover letter is a powerful tool that can help job seekers stand out from the competition. The email cover letter provides job seekers with an opportunity to introduce themselves to potential employers, showcase their skills, and explain why they are the best candidates for the job.

When submitting a resume, attaching an email cover letter demonstrates professionalism and attention to detail. Employers appreciate job seekers who take the time to craft a customized email cover letter for each job application. It shows that the job seeker is serious about the job and has put in the effort to present themselves in the best possible light.

Advantages of Email Cover Letter

There are several advantages to using an email cover letter when applying for a job. Here are some of the most important:

Convenience:  Email cover letters are easy to create and send. They are also easy to customize for each job application.

Faster response:  Email cover letters can help job seekers get a faster response from potential employers. Employers can quickly review the email cover letter and resume and respond to the job seeker.

Cost-effective:  Email cover letters are cost-effective. They eliminate the need to print and mail traditional cover letters, saving job seekers time and money.

Customizable:  Email cover letters are customizable. Job seekers can tailor the email cover letter to the specific job posting and showcase their skills and experience.

An email cover letter is an effective way for job seekers to stand out from the competition and increase their chances of getting hired. In the following sections, we will share 10 examples and writing tips for creating an effective email cover letter that will impress potential employers.

Elements of an Effective Email Cover Letter

When it comes to crafting an effective email cover letter, there are a few key elements that can make all the difference.

Personalization

First and foremost, personalization is key. This means tailoring your email cover letter to the specific company and job you’re applying for, rather than using a generic template. Start by addressing the recipient by name, and mention any specific details about the company or position that caught your attention. This shows that you’ve done your research and have a genuine interest in the job.

Clear and Concise Language

In addition to personalization, it’s important to use clear and concise language in your email cover letter. Avoid using overly complicated words or industry jargon that the recipient may not understand. Instead, focus on expressing your qualifications and experience in a straightforward manner. Be sure to proofread carefully for any typos or grammatical errors, as these can detract from the overall professionalism of your email.

Professional Tone

Maintaining a professional tone throughout your email cover letter is also crucial. Avoid using overly casual language or emoticons, and instead aim for a tone that is friendly yet formal. Make sure to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the job, while still maintaining a sense of decorum.

Proper Formatting

Finally, proper formatting is key when it comes to crafting an effective email cover letter. Be sure to keep the body of your email organized and easy to read, with plenty of white space and clear headings to separate different sections. Use a professional-looking font, and keep your email signature simple and straightforward.

By following these key elements of an effective email cover letter, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a compelling message that can help you land your dream job.

Writing Tips for Email Cover Letter

When it comes to writing an email cover letter, there are certain elements that need to be addressed properly in order to make a great impression on the recipient. Here are some writing tips to keep in mind:

Addressing the recipient

It’s important to address the recipient by their name rather than using a generic greeting. If you don’t know their name, do some research on the company website or LinkedIn to find out who the hiring manager is for the position you’re applying for.

Subject line

Your subject line should be clear and concise, highlighting why you’re reaching out. Avoid using vague or generic subject lines that won’t catch the recipient’s attention.

Start your email with a professional salutation, such as “Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name].” Avoid using informal greetings like “Hey” or “Hi there.”

Opening paragraph

Your opening paragraph should be brief and engaging. Start by introducing yourself and explaining why you’re interested in the position you’re applying for. Highlight any relevant skills or experience that make you a strong candidate for the job.

Body of the email

The body of your email should expand on the information included in your resume and cover letter. Keep it concise and focused on the most important aspects of your experience and qualifications. Use bullet points to break up the text and make it easy to skim.

Closing paragraph

End your email with a strong closing paragraph that summarizes your interest in the job and your qualifications. Provide a call to action, such as requesting an interview or follow-up conversation.

Finish your email with a professional signature that includes your name, phone number, and email address. You may also want to include a link to your LinkedIn profile or personal website.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to write an effective email cover letter that will capture the attention of the hiring manager and showcase your qualifications for the job.

Sample Email Cover Letters

Are you struggling to write a perfect email cover letter? Do you want to know the best approach to make your email stand out to potential employers? Look no further than these four sample email cover letters.

Sample 1: Response to Job Posting

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am excited to submit my application for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I came across your job posting on [Job Board] and was immediately drawn to the opportunity to work with such a reputable company.

As a highly skilled [Skill/Experience], I believe my proficiency and expertise can significantly contribute to the success of your team. In my previous roles at [Previous Company], I was responsible for achieving [Achievement], which resulted in [Positive Outcome].

I am a proactive and detail-oriented individual with excellent communication skills. I am confident that I possess the necessary leadership and problem-solving skills required for this position.

Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to discussing how I can add value to your organization.

Best regards, [Your Name]

Sample 2: Networking Email

Hello [Contact Name],

I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I have been following your work in [Industry/Field]. I am impressed by your achievements and would love to connect with you.

I am interested in learning more about [Specific Topic/Interest], and I believe your expertise can help me gain some valuable insights. I would appreciate it if you could spare some time to have a quick chat or an email exchange.

Please let me know if this would be possible, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sample 3: Cold Email

My name is [Your Name], and I specialize in [Skill/Service]. I came across your company on [Source], and I am impressed by the work you are doing in [Industry/Field].

I believe my skills and experience can be of great value to your organization. I have worked with [Type of Clients] and have a track record of achieving [Positive Outcome]. I am confident that I can contribute to your team’s success.

Please let me know if you are interested in discussing how I can help your company.

Sample 4: Follow-Up Email

Dear [Contact Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to follow up regarding my application for [Job Title] position.

I remain highly interested in the opportunity to work with [Company Name] and believe my skills and experience align well with the job requirements. I would be grateful for an update on the status of my application and if there are any further steps I need to take.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to hearing back from you soon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Email Cover Letter

When crafting your email cover letter, there are several common mistakes to avoid. These mistakes can negatively impact your chances of getting the job you want.

Spelling and grammatical errors

One major mistake to avoid is spelling and grammatical errors. These mistakes can make you appear unprofessional and careless, and can turn off potential employers.

Using informal language

Another mistake to avoid is using informal language. Your email cover letter should maintain a professional tone that reflects your respect for the employer and the company. Avoid using overly colloquial language or slang.

Long emails

Your email cover letter should be concise and to the point. Avoid rambling or including unnecessary details. Long emails can overwhelm potential employers and may cause them to lose interest.

Not attaching the resume or other necessary documents

Don’t forget to attach your resume and any other necessary documents. Failing to do so can make you appear unprepared and may cause the employer to question your attention to detail.

Overusing flattery

While it’s important to show interest and enthusiasm for the position, overusing flattery can come across as insincere or desperate. Keep your language measured and avoid going overboard with compliments.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your email cover letter presents you in the best possible light and increases your chances of landing your dream job.

Email Cover Letter for Different Purposes

In today’s job market, email has become one of the most popular ways of communication for job seekers. While emails are not formal, they still require a professional and well-written cover letter. In this section, we will cover email cover letters for various purposes such as internship application, job application, networking, cold email, and follow-up.

Internship Application:

When it comes to internships, it is important to show your enthusiasm, ambition, and willingness to learn. Begin your email by introducing yourself and explaining why you are interested in the specific internship position. Be enthusiastic and genuine, and explain what knowledge or skills you hope to gain from the opportunity. Close your email by thanking the employer for considering your application and express your willingness to discuss the opportunity further.

Job Application:

When sending an email cover letter for a job application, make sure to address the hiring manager by name and introduce yourself. Mention the position you are applying for and how you found out about the job posting. In the body of your email, highlight why you are the ideal candidate for the job. Make sure to include your relevant experience, skills, and achievements. Finally, close your email cordially, thanking the hiring manager for their time and expressing your enthusiasm to learn more about the position.

Networking:

Networking emails are sent to people in your professional network that you are looking to connect or re-connect with. The tone here is less formal, so begin your email by asking how the recipient has been and sharing any updates relevant to the relationship, such as a job change or a new venture. After re-connecting, explain the purpose of the email, and why you are reaching out. Make sure to indicate the value you might bring to the relationship and how you might be able to help one another in the future. Close by thanking them for their time and consideration.

Cold Email:

Cold emails are unsolicited emails you send to people/companies you don’t have any connection with in order to secure a job or request assistance. Generally, these emails should be concise, to the point, and engaging. Start by explaining who you are and your motivation behind the email. Make sure to introduce your skills and explain why you might be a valuable asset to their team/industry. Be clear and direct with your ask, and close your email by thanking the recipient for their time and considering.

When following up on a job interview or application, keep your message brief and specific. Begin by thanking the interviewer/hiring manager for their time and reiterating your interest and enthusiasm for the job. Follow up with a short and concise question or specific request for further consideration, such as asking for feedback or explaining why you are the best fit for the position. Close your email politely and graciously, thanking them once again for considering your application or taking the time to speak with you.

Email Cover Letter for Different Career Levels

When it comes to applying for a job, the cover letter is just as important as the resume. And with the prevalence of email correspondence in the hiring process, email cover letters have become increasingly common. But what works for one career level may not work for another. Here are some tips for crafting email cover letters at different career levels:

Entry-Level Email Cover Letter

As an entry-level candidate, your focus should be on highlighting relevant coursework, internships, and extracurricular activities that demonstrate your potential as a hire. Since you likely don’t have a lot of professional experience, it’s important to convey your enthusiasm and eagerness to learn. Here are some tips for your email cover letter:

• Address the recipient by name.
• Keep your introduction brief and to-the-point.
• Explain why you’re interested in the company and the role.
• Highlight any relevant experience, coursework, or extracurricular activities.
• Express your enthusiasm for the opportunity and willingness to learn.

Mid-Level Email Cover Letter

As a mid-level candidate, you should focus on your relevant experience and how it has prepared you for the role you’re applying for. You should also showcase your leadership abilities and problem-solving skills. Here are some tips for your email cover letter:

• Start with a strong opening that highlights your relevant experience.
• Highlight your leadership abilities and problem-solving skills.
• Provide specific examples of how you’ve excelled in your previous roles.
• Convey your enthusiasm for the opportunity and how you can add value to the company.

Senior-Level Email Cover Letter

As a senior-level candidate, you should focus on your industry expertise and the value you can add to the organization. Your email cover letter should showcase your leadership experience and strategic thinking skills. Here are some tips for your email cover letter:

• Start with a strong opening that showcases your industry expertise.
• Highlight your leadership experience and strategic thinking skills.
• Provide specific examples of how you’ve delivered results in previous roles.

No matter what career level you’re at, your email cover letter should be well-written and free of errors. Use these tips as a starting point and tailor your email cover letter to the specific role and company you’re applying to. And don’t forget to follow up after sending your email to show your continued interest in the opportunity.

Email Cover Letter for Different Industries

When it comes to email cover letters, different industries may require a different approach. Here are some tips on how to craft an effective email cover letter for the following industries: marketing, sales, creative, and tech.

When applying for a marketing position, it’s important to showcase your creativity and communication skills. Start with a compelling subject line that clearly states your intention. In the opening paragraph, briefly introduce yourself and your relevant experience. Make sure to mention any successful campaigns you have worked on.

In the second paragraph, highlight your creativity by sharing your thought process behind a successful campaign you have worked on. This demonstrates your ability to think outside the box and come up with innovative ideas.

In the third paragraph, emphasize your communication skills by explaining how you collaborated with team members, clients, and stakeholders to ensure the success of a campaign. End the email with a strong call to action, such as requesting an interview.

When applying for a sales position, it’s important to focus on your sales achievements and abilities. Start with a subject line that mentions your sales track record. Begin the email by introducing yourself and your relevant experience, including your sales experience.

In the second paragraph, highlight your sales achievements by mentioning your sales numbers and any awards you have received. Make sure to include specific examples of successful deals you have closed.

In the third paragraph, explain how you have built strong relationships with clients and demonstrate your ability to identify their needs and present solutions. End the email by asking for an interview and explaining why you would be a strong fit for the position.

When applying for a creative position, it’s important to showcase your creativity and artistic abilities. Start with a subject line that showcases your creativity. In the opening paragraph, briefly introduce yourself and your relevant experience.

In the second paragraph, highlight your creative abilities by sharing examples of your work, such as design portfolios or writing samples. Make sure to explain the thought process behind each piece of work and how it showcases your skills and creativity.

In the third paragraph, explain how you collaborate with team members and clients to bring creative projects to life. End the email by requesting an interview and expressing enthusiasm for the opportunity to work with the company.

When applying for a tech position, it’s important to showcase your technical abilities and problem-solving skills. Start with a subject line that showcases your technical skills. In the opening paragraph, briefly introduce yourself and your relevant experience.

In the second paragraph, highlight your technical abilities by sharing examples of successful projects you have worked on. Make sure to explain the technical details and explain how your problem-solving skills were crucial in your success.

In the third paragraph, explain how you work with team members to ensure the success of technical projects. End the email by asking for an interview and expressing enthusiasm for the opportunity to bring your technical skills to the company.

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The Difference Between a Cover Letter and the Email You Send With Your Application

When it comes to making a job change, getting it right truly matters. You need to get the keywords right , the messaging right , the formatting right . You’ve got to find the right people to endear yourself to, and the right words for your cover letter and follow-up correspondence.

And, for the love of it all, you’ve got to nail the approach.

But, my oh my, there are so many considerations—so many things we all second guess ourselves on when applying for a job.

Should you make the cover letter the body of the email, or attach it separately? (Or both?) Do you address the person by first name, or go with Mr. / Ms. So-and-So? (And, does same rule apply for both?) How casual or formal do you need to be? Is there a right or wrong format for cover letters and emails? Does the cover letter need to be a page or less? How long should the intro email be?

Holy Hannah—it’s enough to make the coolest cucumbers among us start to feel like crazy people. And that’s even before you’ve made an introduction.

Deep breaths, everyone. Deep breaths. Let’s break this cover letter stuff down into manageable chunks. Here’s what you need to know:

Should the Cover Letter Be an Attachment or Just the Body of Email?

The short answer is: either. Not both, either.

If you ask 10 recruiters of hiring managers which they prefer, you’ll probably get five who say attachment and five who say email. But here’s the good news: Nearly all will report that it’s not going to make or break you either way. So, don’t let this topic unravel you.

I happen to be a proponent of “cover letter as body of the email,” and here’s why: It gives you the opportunity to make a strong, memorable first impression the millisecond that reviewer’s eyes open their inbox. You can draw someone in with an incredible opening line, and then showcase the ways in which you could contribute to the team.

If, instead, you decide to go with cover letter as attachment, you should be brief and point the reader to the attachments.

I’ve learned you are seeking a senior project manager with e-commerce experience and knowledge of Jira. That’s me. My attached resume and cover letter outline my qualifications for the role. Thank you very much for your consideration. I hope to hear from you soon!

Keep it brief if you go this route. Those on the receiving end won’t appreciate having to plow through a super long email and all your attachments.

Lastly, don’t even think about replicating the cover letter in both the email and the attachment. That’s just ridiculous (and, makes you look totally indecisive).

Now that we got that figured out, let’s answer the other questions that are probably eating at you:

Do I Use a First Name Salutation—or a More Formal One?

This is best answered with, “It depends”—for both the cover letter and the accompanying email. (I know, just doing my part to make things simple here.)

In all seriousness, it’s best to evaluate the tone and style of the organization you’re attempting to join, and then guess which salutation would be most would the appropriate and appreciated. You can do this pretty easily by reviewing the company’s website and social media presence.

Remember, you’re going to be hired for that next role if (and only if) you’re a “yes” to these three questions

• Do we think she can do this job?
• Do we like her?
• Do we think she’ll fit in around here?

That said, if you can introduce yourself in a way that implies right out of the gates that you’re a triple yes, you’re in business.

Is a Conversational Style Allowed?

In general, I think that job seekers get a bit too revved up about “proper” and end up losing sight of the fact that there’s an actual person at the receiving end of this (assuming you’re emailing your application directly).

Guess what? People like engaging, conversational reading. They notice when an applicant seems genuine, personable, and interesting. They appreciate when plowing through their pile of candidates doesn’t feel like total drudgery.

That being the case, unless you’re applying for a role within an extremely conservative or structured industry or organization, heck yes, a conversational style is allowed. Certainly, this is not your time to bust out a bunch of slang or (gasp) use language that could offend, but it’s a-ok to make your cover letter or intro email read like you’re a real person.

Just be sure and make it clear—in both cases—why you want to work for that company and what, specifically, you can walk through their doors and deliver.

Is the One Page Rule for Cover Letters Still True? What About in an Email?

Hard and fast “rules” make me crazy in general, so I’m not going to announce the exact length that your cover letter or your intro email need to be. I will simply suggest that you get in there, quickly endear yourself to the recipient, and then spell out, specifically, how and why you make perfect sense for the role you’re pursuing. And then wrap it up.

If you can pull it off with a one-page cover letter, absolutely. If you need a page and a half? So long as you’re peeling out any and all unnecessary blabber, knock yourself out. (And this article tells you how to cut it down to make it as effective as possible.)

For the email, again, get to the point and don’t be redundant if you’re also attaching a cover letter.

You can get these things right, for real. Nail the big stuff, sweat the details that truly matter, and get right to the business of making your grand entrance, well, one that’s grand.

How To Write a Sample Email to Send a Resume to a Recruiter

3 key takeaways

• The best way to write an effective job application email to a recruiter is to get straight to the point.
• Lead with the outcomes you’ve achieved and how you align with the role in an application email.
• Teal’s Job Application Tracker includes email templates for every stage of your job search.

HR professionals and recruiters don’t actually like sorting through resumes. They can see hundreds in a single day, even if they’re using an ATS.

To get through them, they’ve created procedures to prioritize the best-fit candidates. 

That’s why, if you’re going to email your resume directly to a recruiter, that email has to catch their eye. It has to be appealing enough to get them to willingly review yet another resume.

In this article, you’ll learn how to craft the perfect sample resume to send to a recruiter. You can also speed up the process and keep track of the jobs you’ve already applied for using Teal’s Job Tracker and Email Templates .

Struggling to land interviews with your resume? Get started with Teal’s AI Resume Builder for free.

How to write an email with your resume to a recruiter

In most cases, if you’re sending your resume to a recruiter it’s because:

• They’ve reached out to you, either on LinkedIn or through email, to express interest in your background and your fit for the role. 
• They list their email in the job posting, asking for resumes in their inbox rather than in an application.
• You’ve discussed work with someone on social media, in-person, or another medium and they’ve asked you to send your resume.

In the first case, recruiters are sending out dozens of canned messages to all candidates within their database, or within a LinkedIn search. They often have a list of criteria they’re using to run this search, and you just happen to fit within that data set.

They know the more emails they send out, the more likely they are to get a response and, hopefully, find the right candidate within those responses. 

In both the first and second scenarios, recruiters are seeing a lot of emails from a lot of people. That is why you shouldn’t send your resume to a recruiter until you are sure it’s a decent match for your skills, work history, and interests for your next role.

Learn as much about the role as you can first. When you feel secure enough to send your resume, you can send it with confidence.

Once you’re ready, here’s how to email a resume to a recruiter:

Step 1: The subject line for a resume email

Your subject line is your first impression, and if it’s too generic, it’ll be completely ignored. An anonymous recruiter on a hiring forum made this clear, stating: 

“As someone who has seen a ton of these, I 100 percent do not suggest something generic. It's quite obvious from some people that they sent the same email to several people. These emails get ignored 90 percent of the time unless the hiring manager is desperate. As for the title, I suggest [you] to be very clear in what you are looking for, even if it's a little long. Example: "Expression of interest for XX-0X Position - [group name, ex: Policy Division] - Seeking Deployment Opportunity."

That’s why your email subject line needs to be a clear indicator of these few things:

• Who you are (name)
• The role you’re applying for
• Your qualifications, if applicable (MBA, CP, Ph.D…)

Email subject lines are rather short, even on a desktop (60 characters at most), but they’re even shorter in mobile inboxes. 

You need to be clear not only about why you’re reaching out, but also put the most important words at the beginning to ensure they’re seen. 

Sample subject line in an email to send to a recruiter

If you’re referred to by someone, that’s what you should include first. The subject line, in that case, might look something like this:

If you weren’t referred, here are a few other examples of email subject lines to a recruiter:

• Notice of Interest - [Job title you seek]
• Applying for [Position] – [Name] Resume
• “[Job title][Your name],[Your qualification or job title]

Step 2: Greeting

Keep your greeting simple and professional with a “Hello” or “Dear” followed by their first name. 

Just be sure to spell it correctly. They won’t take kindly to being called something other than their name, especially when you can generally just look at their email to ensure correct spelling. Check their LinkedIn profile if you are unsure.

Step 3: Introduction

The introduction of your email is the first line after your greeting, and it’s really more of a courtesy than anything else.

You don’t need to draw it out. One or two sentences explaining why you’re reaching out and how you found out about the opportunity is adequate, especially if you were referred to the role. If you were, be sure to name drop.

If you really want to stand out from the standard email though, get straight to your message and express your enthusiasm for the position with something that stands out. 

Sample intro in an email to send to a recruiter

Step 4: Qualifications and value proposition in your email body

Don’t just list your qualifications in your email as if it’s a resume. Instead, share the biggest highlights of your career in a conversational tone.

The best way to do this is to think through the outcomes you’ve produced in your position. If the role you’re applying for, or the roles you’ve had in the past, are not outcome based, consider how your work contributed to business goals. 

Maybe you’ve led a team that completed a detrimental project for the company. Maybe you’ve saved the company money somehow or increased the efficiency of an internal process. 

If former or current employers have benefited from your work in any way, share that. Then, of course, also share any certifications or earned titles, such as Ph.D.

Sample qualifications in an email to send to a recruiter

This works because it’s straightforward. Instead of oversharing, it dives right into the  results of past work. It wastes no time delivering the essential details that’ll help the recruiter make a decision.

Pro tip: Teal’s Job Tracker includes job application email templates tailored to your resume and cover letter.

Step 5: Call to Action

Point the reader in the direction you want them to take with confidence. Don’t leave it open-ended. 

For example, “please let me know if I’m a good fit” is too passive.

Instead, you want to be more assertive to earn the hiring manager's attention, urging them into action without coming across as entitled or pushy.

Sample call to action in an email to send to a recruiter

“Please see my resume attached to the link in my portfolio [URL] to check my samples and testimonials. My resume is also attached to this email. If I look like a fit, I'd love the opportunity to speak with you further on how I can apply my skills to [outcome] for [Company]. I'm available all Tuesday and Wednesday next week. Would you be up for a chat?”

Step 6: Best resume email closings and sign-offs

After asking for a meeting or closing with another call to action, thank the recruiter for their time and consideration. 

Sign off your email with a professional closing, such as "Best regards," "Sincerely," or "Thank you."

Include your full name, contact information, and any relevant links (such as your LinkedIn profile) in your email signature.

There are a few websites that make it easy to create a professional email signature . 

Sample signature in an email to send to a recruiter

You simply have to go into your email settings, to your signature, and paste your professional email signature there. From then on, every email you create will automatically include your signature. 

Step 7: Attaching your resume to a recruiter email

A lot of job applicants question whether or not they should email their resume as a word doc or a PDF file . 

A PDF has long been thought of as the clean and professional standard. They also have the advantage of maintaining your formatting, so recruiters will always see your resume as intended. 

But recently Word docs have been making a come back due to fears that ATS software isn’t able to read PDFs. 

However, as long as the text in the PDF isn't rasterized or cluttered with images and icons, an ATS should be able to read it. 

Annette Marie, a job seeker, shared this word of caution about using PDF resumes for job applications:

“The entire top portion of my PDF resume did not appear in the finished ATS scan, but everything appeared when I scanned my Word document (.docx). However, it’s worth mentioning that the top portion of my resume is within a text box, which may explain the issue. Just be cautious with shapes and objects, as they don’t seem to be compatible when using a PDF format. Nonetheless, the PDF still presents well for in-person interviews.”

Recruiters may sometimes favor Word doc resumes due to their ability to make changes, either to the formatting, or to remove certain items that might lead to unconscious bias (such as a picture).

Some recruiters might also need to remove contact information in order to protect your details and keep their clients from contacting you directly. 

But you’d have to be willing to have a recruiter alter your resume, potentially without consulting you. 

Unless they’re a career coach, a trusted friend, or a resume writing service, no one should be editing your resume. 

Step 8: Follow up on your recruiter email

There are several ways to follow up on a job application email, because, no, you don’t necessarily have to follow up via email.

• Email: It’s rare for recruiters to get through all of their emails in one sitting, so it might take a few days to get to yours. But, if you haven’t heard back in a couple of days, it’s safe to send an email reasserting your interest in the position.

Aside from re-expressing your interest, you might also want to ask when you’ll be able to connect with a hiring manager. You can also reattach your resume and cover letter. 

Sample follow up job application email template

Subject line: [Your Name] - Job Application Follow-up for [Position] at [Company] Hello [Hiring Manager's Name], A few weeks ago, I applied for the [Position Title with Hyperlink to the Application] role at [Company Name]. I'm very excited about this opportunity, so I wanted to reach out, introduce myself, and see if you have any details from the hiring manger about the decision timeline. I'm a [Your Current Job Title] at [Your Current Company Name] who's [insert relevant qualifications and/or accomplishments] over the last [X] years. In particular, I'm interested in [Company Name] because [mention specific reasons why you're interested and why you’re a good fit]. Please let me know if you have any questions about my application or require further information from me. I look forward to hearing from you soon and learning more about the timeline. I can't wait to share some of my ideas on [insert challenge or goal related to your desired new job title]. [Best/Kind regards/Thank you], [Your Name] [Your Phone Number] [Your LinkedIn]

• Phone: Resort to a phone call only after you haven’t heard back on your follow-up email. 
• LinkedIn: Try to avoid reaching out to a recruiter on LinkedIn unless that was their initial method of contacting you. The reason? It’s far more informal and some recruiters only use their LinkedIn for personal use, or may not check it regularly. 

Here’s a simple follow-up LinkedIn message template : 

Dear [Contact Name], I recently submitted my application for the [Position] at [Company], and I wanted to follow up to express my continued interest in the opportunity and inquire about the status of my application. I am excited about the possibility of joining the team at [Company], and I believe my skills and experience make me a strong fit for the [Position]. I am confident that my [mention of relevant skills, qualifications or experiences] would contribute to the success of the team and the company. If there are any additional materials or information I can provide to support my application, please let me know. I am eager to further discuss my qualifications and how I can contribute to the success of [Company]. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Best regards, [Your Name] [Your Phone Number]

Note: Within Teal’s Job Application Tracker, you’ll find job application email templates to get your started in crafting a personalized email to a recruiter.

Common mistakes to avoid when sending your resume via email

Most emails sent to a recruiter are canned—a template or exact copy of an email sent again and again with little to no alterations. And recruiters are sick of it. 

Jules Lalo, a recruiter , echoes this when with this statement:

“One of my pet peeves is a CV with no context [in the email] intro [so] I have to decipher what group level they are substantively. This has a huge impact on filtering later on.”

In other words, recruiters aren’t just asking for more details and personalization from you because they don’t like it. They simply need more details to help place you in a role or ensure you’re a right fit (and they want to be able to find your email later).

But a lack of context isn’t the only mistake many job seekers make when sending a job application email. Here are a few common mistakes recruiters see: 

Using an unprofessional email address

Elby James , a former HR associate and resume consultant, finds it shocking how often people send emails from unprofessional email addresses. 

“The email address should be a professional email address. I don't mind Gmail or AOL but really, how much does it cost to buy a domain name today? Especially when it is for something as important as your career.

I remember seeing email addresses such as [email protected] . [email protected] . [email protected] . ”

Spelling errors on your resume or in the email 

Spelling mistakes won’t be a make or break for all recruiters, but it can be a put off for many, especially in a short email. With tools like Grammarly available today, most recruiters don’t take kindly to spelling mistakes. 

Elby shares his thoughts on this as well:

“I abhor typos. Maybe this is the graduate English major inside of me acting out but really, there is no need for typos; there are two reasons I say this: The first reason is spell check… it’s free! The second reason is [that] a resume is an important document, you should check it as many times as possible.”

Try to avoid buzzwords

You might be keyword stuffing your resume to get into the candidate pool, but you shouldn’t apply that same logic to a recruiter email. And really, you should try to avoid overstuffing your resume as well. 

Recruiters will often use keyword stuffing as a mental filter. They’ll automatically toss any resume or email that overly-uses buzzwords.

They need to be able to tell what you do in the simplest of terms and with a quick glance. But if you’re using phrases like—“transformed big-thinking into actionable steps, aligning with business goals and channel objectives”—no one will understand you. 

Pro tip: Teal’s free Chrome Extension shares the top five keywords in a job posting for free, and Matching Mode helps you optimize your resume accordingly (meaning you only need to use the most important words).

Lack of personalization

It doesn’t take a lot to personalize an email to a recruiter. 

You’ll keep most of the details the same, like your qualifications and your call to action. But you’ll alter the company’s name, the recruiter’s name, and details about how you found out about the role. 

You’ll also want to alter anything pertinent to the role itself, such as how your experience applies. This isn’t the same for every role, and it’s very easy to tell if you aren’t paying attention to those differences. 

Recruiters want to know exactly how you fit that role, without digging. 

Start with a sample email to send a resume to a recruiter

As you may have caught on, recruiters see hundreds of resumes. They’re unsurprised by most stylings or attempts to be unique. But they’re far more numb to the generic resume emails they see all day.

So while it’s important to add personalization, get straight to your point, and include only the most compelling details in your email, you still need an email template to get started.

While recruiters may see a lot of emails, there’s truth to the job search being a numbers game. The longer you spend on one email, the longer you might be searching for a role. You might even miss out on some opportunities because you’re spending too much time on emailing a recruiter that will spend only seconds determining whether or not to put you in a candidate pool.

Using a sample resume email for recruiters as a template, you can speed up the process while adding some personalization. 

To find simple, but effective job application email templates, try Teal’s Resume Builder. Teal’s Job Application Tracker includes email templates to send your email to recruiters and hiring managers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should you write in an email when sending a resume to a recruiter.

When sending a resume to a recruiter, keep your email concise and professional. Start with a clear subject line, greet the recruiter by name, briefly introduce yourself, highlight key achievements, include a call to action, and close with a professional sign-off.

What should you write when sending a CV via email?

When sending a CV via email, include a personalized greeting, a short introduction stating why you’re reaching out, and a summary of your qualifications and accomplishments. Add a clear call to action, thank the recruiter for their time, and attach your CV in a preferred format.

What should you write in an email subject line when sending a resume?

Your email subject line should clearly indicate who you are, the role you’re applying for, and any relevant qualifications. Examples include "Notice of Interest - [Job Title]", "Applying for [Position] – [Your Name]", or "[Job Title] - [Your Name], [Qualification]".

Sarah Colley

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How to Start a Cover Letter To Keep Recruiters Reading

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Writing a good cover letter starts with the first word, so you need to know how to start a cover letter right.

Starting a cover letter on the right note is crucial to grab the recruiter’s attention. Whether you’re struggling with a blank document or have a solid foundation, a cover letter needs a punchy opening to make an impact on the hiring team.

What are the key ingredients to starting the perfect cover letter?

Here’s what we’ll cover in this article:

• What to include in your cover letter header.
• How to start a cover letter greeting.
• How to write an impressive cover letter opening paragraph.
• How to start a cover letter off strong.
• Examples of how to start a cover letter.

Each puzzle piece of your cover letter opener creates a detailed picture of who you are as a candidate. It proves to the recruiter that you’re worth contacting for a job interview . Make a standout first impression with your cover letter by including:

• A header with your contact information.
• A personalized greeting.
• A powerful opening statement.

Create your cover letter with AI to customize it for the job description. Optimize your cover letter and resume with Jobscan to get more interviews.

What to include in a cover letter header

The top of your cover letter should include a header with your critical contact information, like:

• Your name and professional title.
• Your phone number.
• Your email address.
• Your LinkedIn profile link.

You can also include other relevant links. These could be to your portfolio website, GitHub, Medium profile, or other industry-specific resources. They will help the recruiter understand your skills.

Include the date, the recipient, the company name, and the address or location of the organization. (This will depend on whether it’s an in-person, hybrid, or remote environment.)

Below is an example of a cover letter including personal information in the header with the date and company information below. This example was created with the Jobscan Cover Letter Generator .

Use our Cover Letter Generator to save yourself time writing your cover letter. The header section will auto-populate based on your resume, so all the details match perfectly.

How to write a cover letter greeting

If you usually start your cover letters with “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To whom it may concern,” it’s time to reinvent your greetings. Not only is this a boring way to start a cover letter, it can come across as lazy.

With a little investigation, it’s easier than ever to find the names of the recruiters or hiring teams. By taking a little time, you can personalize your greeting to boost your chances of a recruiter reading your cover letter from start to finish.

Beat out the 84% of job seekers who don’t find the hiring manager’s name to personalize their applications and go the extra mile.

How can you find the right person to address in your cover letter?

Turn to LinkedIn or the organization’s website.

On LinkedIn, you can either search for the company’s recruiter or talent acquisition team members. Or you can go to the “People” tab of their LinkedIn page to explore the current employees.

Suppose you’re looking for a job at PCL Construction and want to find the name of the recruiter who will likely be reading your cover letter. You can go to the search bar and find the recruiter managing that department by city.

With just a quick search, you’ll find the hiring team members in charge of the role you’re applying for!

You can also go directly to a company’s website and look for the “Team” or “About Us” page for information.

Targeting a greeting to a specific person is easier to do in smaller organizations. If you’re applying for a role at a large company, you can still write an engaging but more general greeting on your cover letter, such as:

• Dear [Department] Hiring Manager,
• Dear [Department] Team,
• Dear [Director of or Head of] Department,
• Dear [Company Name] Hiring Manager,

How to write a powerful cover letter opening paragraph

Recruiters spend just seven seconds scanning a candidate’s application , so it’s critical to capture their attention in the first line.

Be concise in your cover letter and choose your words with the desired impact in mind. Avoid falling into the old traps of opening your cover letter by stating what role you’re applying for and how you found it. Remember, you have a precious few seconds to illustrate how you can help the organization fulfill its needs, so make every sentence count.

Read the examples below and ask which one will have a greater impact on employers.

“I am thrilled to apply for the Research Analyst position at YouGov, where my experience in leading market research projects that boosted client engagement by 25% and my expertise in data interpretation have consistently delivered actionable insights and strategic recommendations. Using my skills in analyzing primary research data, I’m looking forward to helping your organization make data-backed decisions to drive growth and profitability in your projects.”

“I am excited to apply for the Research Analyst position at YouGov, an esteemed global online research company well-known for its accurate data and market insights. With my background in managing market research projects, interpreting data, and delivering actionable recommendations, I believe I can contribute significantly to your team.”

The point of your cover letter isn’t just to restate your skills from your resume . You need to prove the impact of your skills and how you’ll bring that impact to the organization.

It’s not about you, it’s about the company’s needs.

Tips for writing a strong cover letter opener

Now that you know what puzzle pieces you need to start a cover letter right, here are some tips to help wow the recruiter with its content.

1. Let your enthusiasm and passion shine through

Your resume illustrates your skills and qualifications , but your cover letter is the place to tell a story. Share what company qualities excite you, what draws you to the organization’s mission or values, and what direct experience you have with the company’s product or service.

Communicating your enthusiasm gives the recruiter an idea of how engaged and dedicated you’ll be to your performance.

With over five years of hands-on experience in property management, I am deeply passionate about creating exceptional living experiences for residents. Your industry-leading services and premium standards in property management systems make me excited about the opportunity to bring my dedication and expertise to your esteemed team.

2. Mention any mutual connections

If you have a professional connection in the company or were referred to a position, name-drop that connection at the top of your cover letter. A connection can help boost your chances of getting an interview, especially if that person can act as a reference.

Give your connection a heads-up if you discovered the opportunity on your own without a referral. That way, if they’re asked about you informally by the hiring team, they’ll know to expect questions.

If you want to give your cover letter a boost with a connection, you can reach out to someone in the company before you apply. Be genuine and try to connect with someone on the team you would be working with. Ask an authentic question or reach out to discuss their experience in the company. Tell them you want to apply for an opening. But don’t try to reach out to anyone just to get a name to plug in your cover letter. It can come across as disingenuous.

My interest in the Health Systems Analyst role was significantly piqued after speaking with Jane Doe, an eHealth Policy Analyst at your organization. Jane highlighted the cutting-edge technology initiatives and collaborative atmosphere within your IT department, which align perfectly with my 7 years of experience in healthcare IT, focusing on electronic health records (EHR) systems and data security.

3. Incorporate your company research

Writing a compelling cover letter requires that you do some research to show the recruiter that you’re aligned with the company’s values, mission, and culture. You need to express to the recruiter why you want to work at their specific organization .

Keep an eye on industry news and learn about the company’s latest projects. By incorporating details about what the organization is currently achieving, you position yourself as a better interview candidate over other applicants.

Your recognition as an industry leader, demonstrated by winning the Best Employer Award for three consecutive years and your successful launch of the community outreach initiative, highlights [Company Name]’s dedication to both employee well-being and social responsibility. I have a track record of increasing employee satisfaction by 20% through strategic wellness programs and look forward to contributing to your continued success.

4. Highlight your most impressive achievement

A well-written resume illustrates your achievements , but your cover letter is the best vehicle to add context and tell a compelling story to show off your impact. You can directly tie it into the role you’re applying for and help the recruiter forge connections between what you have accomplished in the past to what you can achieve for the future—particularly for their company.

In my previous role as a project manager at Apex Management Co, I spearheaded a comprehensive cost-reduction initiative that saved $500,000 annually by optimizing supply chain operations and renegotiating vendor contracts. This accomplishment directly relates to the efficiency and budget management skills required for the Operations Manager position at your organization, where I am eager to contribute to your mission of streamlining processes and enhancing operational efficiency.

5. Clearly state your unique value

In a sea of applicants, it can feel difficult to set yourself apart. But the truth is, no one has the same combination of experience or skills you do. The key to standing out is learning how to frame your unique value to solve a company’s problems. Expand on the key skills listed in the job description and draw on your research of the organization to explicitly spell out how you’ll benefit the team.

With a unique blend of creative and technical skills, I designed a user interface for the HealthCo App that increased user engagement by 40% through user-centered design principles and rigorous usability testing. I am looking forward to bringing this expertise to your organization as a UX Designer, addressing your need for more engaging and intuitive user experiences, particularly as you expand your digital offerings.

6. Keep your cover letter short

Remember that you want the recruiter to read your cover letter from start to finish, so make sure every sentence is meaningful and cut out the fluff. There should be plenty of white space to break up the text and not overwhelm the reader.

Reference our cover letter examples for inspiration on crafting the perfect cover letter.

Let AI write your cover letter for you

Jobscan’s premium Power Edit includes a cover letter generator that harnesses the power of AI to write a customized cover letter based on your tailored resume and the job description. With one click, you’ll generate a cover letter that follows best practices.

You can use it as a framework to defeat blank page syndrome and include anecdotes, details about your mutual connections, and bits of information from your research to impress the hiring team. You can make any alterations in Power Edit and download the PDF when it’s done and ready to be attached to your tailored resume.

Key takeaways

Your cover letter could be the key to landing the interview. By following these essential tips on how to start a cover letter, you’ll capture the attention of the hiring team from the first sentence.

Remember these cover letter rules as you start your writing.

• Make a clear opening statement that shows passion, knowledge, and your unique value.
• Keep your cover letter short—stick to a few concise paragraphs to make it readable.
• Be specific and clear about what you’ll bring to the role.
• Stay away from humor—the tone can be difficult to read.
• Avoid reusing the same cover letter and write a custom cover letter for each job.
• Don’t overinflate your accomplishments or lie about connections that don’t exist.

When including your contact information on a cover letter or resume, make sure to provide the following details: Full Name: Your first and last name. Phone Number: A number where you can be easily reached. Make sure your voicemail is professional. Email Address: Use a professional email address, preferably one that includes your name. Mailing Address: Include your current street address, city, state, and zip code. LinkedIn Profile: If you have a LinkedIn profile that is up-to-date and professional, include the URL. Professional Website or Portfolio: If applicable, include a link to your personal website or online portfolio showcasing your work. This ensures potential employers have multiple ways to reach you and can view your professional online presence.

A good opening sentence for a cover letter can grab the reader’s attention and introduce your purpose for writing. Here are a few examples: For a job application: “I am excited to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. With my background in [your field or relevant experience ], I am eager to bring my skills and passion to your team.” For a career change: “With a strong foundation in [current field], I am thrilled to apply for the [Job Title] role at [Company Name] to leverage my skills in [new field].” For a specific achievement: “Having recently led a successful [project or achievement], I am enthusiastic about applying for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] to bring my expertise in [specific skill or area] to your innovative team.” For expressing enthusiasm: “I have long admired [Company Name]’s commitment to [specific value or mission], and I am excited to apply for the [Job Title] position to contribute to your impactful work with my experience in [relevant experience or field].” For a networking referral: “After speaking with [Referrer’s Name], I am inspired to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] where I can utilize my skills in [specific skill or area] to further your goals.” These starters aim to make a strong first impression by highlighting your enthusiasm, relevant skills, and connection to the company.

Your cover letter opening should contain the following key elements: Your Enthusiasm for the Position: Show genuine excitement and interest in the role you are applying for. This sets a positive tone and captures the reader’s attention. Specific Mention of the Job Title and Company Name: Clearly state the position you are applying for and the name of the company. This ensures the reader knows exactly what role you are interested in. Brief Introduction of Yourself: Include a concise introduction that highlights who you are and what you bring to the table. This can include your current role, relevant experience, or a key achievement. Connection to the Company: Mention something specific about the company that resonates with you, such as their mission, values, recent achievements, or reputation in the industry. This demonstrates that you have researched the company and are genuinely interested in working there. A Hook or Key Strength: Highlight a key skill or accomplishment that makes you a strong candidate for the position. This can be a significant achievement, a unique skill set, or relevant experience that sets you apart from other applicants. Here is an example that incorporates all these elements: “I am excited to apply for the Marketing Manager position at XYZ Company, where I can combine my passion for innovative marketing strategies with my skills in digital advertising. With over five years of experience in driving successful campaigns that increased brand awareness and sales, I am eager to bring my expertise to your dynamic team. I have long admired XYZ Company’s commitment to sustainability and innovative product development, and I am thrilled at the opportunity to contribute to your impactful work. My recent achievement in boosting social media engagement by 40% through targeted campaigns is a testament to my ability to drive results and my dedication to excellence.”

To start a cover letter greeting effectively, follow these guidelines: Address the Hiring Manager by Name: Whenever possible, find out the name of the hiring manager or the person responsible for hiring. Addressing the letter to a specific person shows that you have done your research and adds a personal touch. Use a Professional Salutation: Use a formal greeting such as “Dear” followed by the person’s title (Mr., Ms., Dr., etc.) and last name. Avoid using first names or informal greetings. When You Don’t Know the Name: If you cannot find the hiring manager’s name, use a general but professional greeting such as “ Dear Hiring Manager ” or “Dear [Department] Team.” Avoid Outdated Phrases: Refrain from using outdated or overly formal phrases like “To Whom It May Concern.” A modern, professional greeting is more effective. Examples: When you know the hiring manager’s name: “Dear Ms. Smith,” When you know the hiring manager’s title and department: “Dear Marketing Team Lead,” When you don’t know the hiring manager’s name: “Dear Hiring Manager,” When applying to a specific department: “Dear Marketing Team,” Starting your cover letter with a proper greeting sets a professional tone and demonstrates your attention to detail.

Kelsey is a Content Writer with a background in content creation, bouncing between industries to educate readers everywhere.

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7 Essential Tips on How to Format a Cover Letter

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7 Essential Tips on How to Format a Cover Letter was originally published on Resume.io .

When you come to writing one of the most important letters in your life, you may need a few ground rules to help you to get started with the format of your cover letter.

That blank page can look awfully daunting otherwise.

Here are some must-follow tips around the structure and content of your cover letter:

Well-designed header

The header section of the cover letter should be attractive and space efficient. Graduates might be tempted to select a header design that reduces the amount of space that they need to fill for their cover letter, but you will have more to say than you think.

The header should contain all essential contact details (in addition to those on your resume) – full name, email, and mobile. You don’t have to include your full address and you definitely don’t have to include the “inside address” of your employer.

Mouthwatering intro

The intro of a recent grad or early career cover letter should be far more than a “this is what I want out of my career.” The hiring manager understands that you want the job – applicants need to prove to them that they are worthy of it. Make a compelling case.

The cover letter introduction should lead with your most relevant accomplishment for the role in question, with a hint of personality around how you achieved it. Avoid a generic cover letter that you send to everyone – you might not have much experience, but you should still strive to be as selective as possible.

Only relevant career stories with context

The length and content of your cover letter should be dictated by the amount of relevant experience that you have to share. Do not feel that you need to fill a page by parroting the responsibilities of the role or long lists of skills and personality traits without evidence.

Empty space is better than empty words – employers will value quality over quantity for the early career professional. What they want to understand in the cover letter is that you understand the demands of the role and can justify why you think you will do a good job.

Conclusion with call-to-action

End the conclusion of the early-career cover letter with a final detail about your personality and motivation and share your interest in learning more about the role. Saying that you hope to have the opportunity of an interview to learn more about the role is a powerful call-to-action which demonstrates your belief in yourself. Remember to keep the tone hopeful.

After the raw content come the syntax and visual choices:

Powerful action verbs

When you only have a certain number of sentences to create a favorable impression, your choice of verb can have a surprising impact on how your messages are received. Insightful action verbs can add a new level of meaning. Did you “manage” or “orchestrate” a project?

A word of warning: sprinkle action verbs and other buzzwords liberally. The cover letter should read like a conversation starter, so ensure that it sounds natural enough.

Impactful fonts, sensible sizes, and shot paragraphs

Increasingly the font size to take up more space on the page will fool no one. Stick with a standard 10 or 12 size and choose a suitable professional font that is easy to read.

Use short 2-4-line non-indented paragraphs and leave a line between each one. Give the reader a natural break between each of your career stories and consider using bullet points for your greatest accomplishments (the ones that you can ideally quantify with numbers). The cover letter should be strictly no more than one page – ideally aim for 3/4 of a page.

Right choice of template

Finally, very few cover letters or resumes are send as a blank word document these days. There are a wide choice of resume and cover letter templates – it is a great idea to use the same visual look for both your cover letter and resume. When a hiring manager is viewing a large number of candidates, this association will stick in their minds.

There is a subtle art to writing a persuasive cover letter when you do not have experience.

Strike a balance between outlining hopes for the future and sharing the greatest hits from your past. Your future employer will want to understand both.

If you are curious to explore further (you should be), the following article from Resume.io provides substantial further food for thought: “ How to Format a Cover Letter in 2022: Examples and Tips ”

15 Examples of Short Cover Letters (Industry-Specific)

By Status.net Editorial Team on July 5, 2024 — 7 minutes to read

A cover letter serves as an introduction to your potential employer: it allows you to highlight key aspects of your resume and showcase your enthusiasm for the job.

Unlike your resume, which lists your qualifications, a cover letter provides a narrative. You can explain why you’re particularly suited for the position.

Cover letters are typically one page, or around 250-400 words. In this article, we’ll provide examples of industry-specific cover letters.

Industry-Specific Short Cover Letter Examples

For creative roles.

I’ve always been passionate about visual storytelling. My experience at (…) Agency, where I led a project to redesign the company’s website, has honed my skills in (…). I believe my innovative approach can bring fresh ideas to your team.

For Technical Positions

With a bachelor’s degree in (…) and three years of experience in (…), I have developed a strong foundation in (…) and (…). Implementing system upgrades at (…) Corp showcased my ability to enhance performance while ensuring minimal downtime.

For Customer Service Jobs

I have a knack for resolving customer issues with a friendly and patient approach. My role at (…) Inc. allowed me to assist over (Number) customers daily, significantly improving their satisfaction scores. I’d love to bring my customer-focused experience to your team.

For Sales and Marketing

As a sales associate at (…) Co., I achieved a 20% increase in quarterly sales through personalized client interactions and strategic upselling. My creativity and strategic thinking can help your company expand its market reach and boost sales figures.

For Entry-Level Applications

Having recently graduated with a degree in Marketing, I am excited about starting my career at (…) Ltd. My internship at (…) provided experience in social media management and market analysis, equipping me with the essential skills to contribute effectively from day one.

Mention : academic achievements, internships, and your readiness to take on new challenges.

For Healthcare Roles

My passion for patient care and my extensive clinical experience make me a strong candidate for the nursing position at XYZ Hospital. During my tenure at ABC Clinic, I managed patient assessments, administered medications, and provided compassionate care to patients with diverse health needs. My certification in Basic Life Support (BLS) ensures that I am prepared for emergency situations.

For Education Roles

With a Master’s degree in Education and five years of teaching experience, I am excited about the opportunity to join DEF School as an elementary teacher. My innovative lesson plans and dedication to fostering a positive learning environment have resulted in a 15% improvement in student test scores. I am committed to nurturing each student’s potential and providing a supportive educational experience.

Highlight:  Teaching strategies, student achievements, certifications, and commitment to education.

For Finance and Accounting

As a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with four years of experience in financial analysis and reporting, I am eager to bring my expertise to GHI Financial Services. At (…) Corp, I streamlined the budgeting process and identified cost-saving opportunities that resulted in a 10% reduction in operational expenses. My proficiency in QuickBooks and Excel ensures accurate financial management.

Emphasize:  Certifications, financial software proficiency, analytical skills, and cost-saving achievements.

For Human Resources

With a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management and three years of experience in recruitment and employee relations, I am confident in my ability to contribute to (…) Corporation’s HR team. My role at (…) Ltd involved managing the full recruitment cycle and implementing employee engagement initiatives that increased retention rates by 12%. My knowledge of labor laws and HR best practices ensures compliance and a positive work environment.

Detail:  Recruitment experience, employee relations, retention strategies, and HR certifications.

For Legal Positions

As a licensed attorney with a strong background in corporate law, I am eager to join (…) Legal Firm. My experience at (…) Law Office involved managing complex contract negotiations and providing legal counsel to high-profile clients. My attention to detail and ability to conduct thorough legal research have consistently contributed to favorable case outcomes.

Highlight:  Legal expertise, case management, certifications, and notable legal achievements.

For Hospitality and Tourism

With five years of experience in hotel management and a passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences, I am excited about the opportunity to join (…) Resorts. My tenure at (…) Hotel involved overseeing daily operations, managing staff, and implementing guest satisfaction programs that led to a 15% increase in positive reviews. My strong organizational skills ensure seamless operations and memorable stays for guests.

Focus on:  Customer service, operational management, guest satisfaction, and industry experience.

For Research and Development (R&D)

With a Ph.D. in Biochemistry and three years of experience in pharmaceutical research, I am eager to contribute to (…) Pharma’s R&D team. My work at (..) Labs involved conducting advanced research on enzyme inhibitors, resulting in a publication in the Journal of Medicinal Chemistry. My proficiency in molecular biology techniques and data analysis tools like SPSS ensures rigorous and innovative research outcomes.

Focus on:  Research experience, publications, technical skills, and innovative thinking.

For Environmental Science and Sustainability

As an Environmental Scientist with a Master’s degree in Environmental Science and two years of experience in sustainability projects, I am excited about the opportunity to join DEF Environmental Consultants. My role at (…) Environmental Solutions involved leading a project to restore wetland ecosystems, which improved local biodiversity by 20%. My certification in Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) ensures that I can effectively evaluate and mitigate environmental risks.

Highlight:  Fieldwork, certifications, project management, and commitment to sustainability.

For Public Relations (PR)

With a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and four years of experience in public relations, I am eager to bring my expertise to (…) PR Agency. My tenure at (…) Communications involved managing media relations for high-profile clients and crafting press releases that garnered significant media coverage. My strategic thinking and crisis management skills ensured positive public perception even during challenging times.

Emphasize:  Communication skills, media relations, crisis management, and successful PR campaigns.

For Non-Profit and Social Services

With a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and three years of experience in non-profit management, I am passionate about joining (…) Non-Profit Organization. My role at (…) Community Services involved coordinating outreach programs that assisted over 500 individuals annually. My successful grant writing efforts secured $100,000 in funding, enabling the expansion of our services. My dedication to social justice and community empowerment aligns with your organization’s mission.

Detail:  Community outreach, fundraising, volunteer work, and dedication to social causes.

For Supply Chain and Logistics

As a Supply Chain Manager with a Bachelor’s degree in Logistics and five years of experience in supply chain optimization, I am excited about the opportunity to join (…) Logistics. My role at (…) Corp involved streamlining the supply chain process, reducing lead times by 15%, and managing inventory levels to ensure timely deliveries. My proficiency in SAP and Lean Six Sigma methodologies ensures efficient and cost-effective supply chain operations.

Focus on:  Process optimization, inventory management, technical skills, and efficiency.

What are the key elements in a short cover letter with no experience?

Focus on your transferable skills and your enthusiasm for the industry. If applicable, mention relevant coursework, volunteer work, or projects. Express your willingness to learn and adapt. For example, “While I have not worked in this field before, my project management experience during my college years has equipped me with valuable organizational skills.” Related: 150 Example Phrases: Top Transferable Skills Every Company Wants

How do I format a short cover letter in Word?

Set margins to 1 inch on all sides and choose a professional font like Arial or Times New Roman in size 11 or 12. Keep paragraphs short and use bullet points for emphasis if necessary. Include your contact information at the top, followed by the date, and the employer’s contact information.

What does a short cover letter for customer service entail?

Quickly highlight your communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and any relevant certifications. Mention any customer service experience and how you’ve handled difficult situations. “In my role as a customer service representative at (…) Inc., I consistently resolved customer issues promptly and received positive feedback for my patience and efficiency.”

How do I create a compelling cover letter as a fresher?

Emphasize your educational background, relevant projects, and internships. Share your enthusiasm for the industry and the company. For instance, “As a recent graduate with a degree in (…), I am passionate about (…) and am eager to contribute to your team’s projects.”

How can I tailor a short cover letter for any position?

To tailor your cover letter, research the company and the position and highlight specific skills and experiences that match the job description. Ideally, use keywords from the job listing and show how your achievements align with the company’s goals.

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The Official Careers Website of the City of New York

External Affairs Assistant - 640335

• Agency: CONSUMER AND WORKER PROTECTION
• Job type: Part-time

NYC-ALL BOROS

• Title Classification: No exam required

External Affairs

Job Description

To Apply: Email your resume and cover letter to [email protected] with the Job ID number and Position Name in the subject line. The NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) protects and enhances the daily economic lives of New Yorkers to create thriving communities. DCWP licenses more than 45,000 businesses in more than 40 industries and enforces key consumer protection, licensing, and workplace laws that apply to countless more. By supporting businesses through equitable enforcement and access to resources and, by helping to resolve complaints, DCWP protects the marketplace from predatory practices and strives to create a culture of compliance. Through its community outreach and the work of its offices of Financial Empowerment and Labor Policy & Standards, DCWP empowers consumers and working families by providing the tools and resources they need to be educated consumers and to achieve financial health and work-life balance. DCWP also conducts research and advocates for public policy that furthers its work to support New York City’s communities. For more information about DCWP and its work, call 311 or visit DCWP at nyc.gov/dcwp or on its social media sites, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. DCWP’s External Affairs division is seeking a College Aide / External Affairs Assistant interested in pursuing a career in public policy, government relations, community relations, law or related fields to provide high-level support within the team. External Affairs is responsible for advancing the agency’s mission through its relationships with key stakeholders such as elected officials, government agencies, community and faith-based organizations, business improvement districts, and everyday New Yorkers. All candidates should have a strong academic record, be highly organized with a keen attention to detail, possess the ability to manage multiple tasks and a commitment to excellence. Responsibilities - Under the supervision of the Deputy Director of Community Affairs, the college aide will assist the Community Affairs Team with a number of meaningful projects and learning opportunities, such as: - The planning and execution of the agency’s community outreach in underserved communities of Staten Island, South Brooklyn, North Bronx and East Queens; - Liaising with elected officials, community partners, and members of DCWP’s senior leadership team; - Providing administrative and research support on special projects and policy initiatives for the Legislative Affairs Team, as needed.

As of June of the Program year the prospective interne must be a student matriculated in a college or be a recent college graduate (winter/spring term of the Program year). NOTE: Appointment to this title is only valid for the duration of the Program, June - August each year.

The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.

Civil service title

SUMMER COLLEGE INTERN

Title classification

Non-Competitive-5

Business title

Posted until

• Experience level: Experienced (non-manager)

Number of positions

Work location

42 Broadway, N.Y.

• Category: Policy, Research & Analysis