Are you recently graduated, applying for a job, and want to make a great first impression with your email?
Here are a few tips for writing job application emails to grab the attention of any hiring manager in the job search process.
Guide to Writing a Professional Job Application Email
"Making the perfect job application email? It's as easy as ABC - Attaching your Resume, Being Professional, and Conveying your Qualifications!"
Job Application Email Tips
- Your job application email should be concise and to the point.
- The introductory paragraph is NOT the place to include a lengthy list of qualifications or work experience.
- Instead, focus on why you're the best candidate for this job opportunity and what you can bring to the company.
- Always proofread your emails carefully before sending - an error-free message conveys that you're professional and detail-oriented.
These tips will help you write a job application email that makea a great impression on the hiring manager.
What should be included in an email application?
Follow any instructions given on submitting your resume or CV by email for a job application.
Include your contact info, email address, and phone number when submitting the application.
How do you do this?
Start with a Clear Subject Line
Hiring managers receive many job applications via email. So make the purpose of your email clear. A hiring manager might receive thousands of emails daily for a specific job description advertised.
Remember, a job application email is different from a traditinal job application letter - the first thing the recruiter sees is the email subject line.
Use the Job Title in the email subject line and include the hiring manager's name if you know it.
Example email subject line
This clearly tells the hiring manager exactly what your email contains.
Ideally, include the following information in the email subject line:
- The reason for your email
- Job title
- Job location (if given)
- Job Reference Number or ID (check job posting/job description)
- Your name
Example Job Application Email Subject Lines
- Applying for [Position Title] in [Location] - [Your Name]
- Submitting application for Job Title at Company Name - Your Name
- Job Application for Job Position - New York - Job ID 54321 - Your Name
- Job Application - Graphic Designer - Los Angeles - 987654
- Application for Marketing Manager position - Denver - Job ID 342561
- Applying for Social Media Specialist - Miami - Job ID:1234567 - Your Name
Always include the name of someone working at the company if they told you about the job.
ExampleInclude a Formal Salutation
Read the job posting page or job portal for the name of the specific person handling the hiring process - or contact the company directly. Can't find the name? Send the email to the hiring manager.
Examples of formal salutations for email job applications- Human Resources Department
- Dear Hiring Manager
- Dear Sir/Madam
- Dear Mr. Smith / Dear Ms. Smith
- Hiring Team
Explain your purpose for writing
Use the first sentence to clearly state the position you are applying for. Keep the email clear and concise.
Mention how you came across this very exciting position and why you are interested.
Capture a potential employer's attention by being professional and personable.
Prove You're a Good Fit
Use the second paragraph to give more detail about why the position and company suit your personality.
Share your experience and skills which qualify you for the job duties.
Demonstrate the best accomplishments of your career so far and briefly describe prior work experience and skills applicable to the position.
Be Focused and Brief
The email must clearly describe your intention. So the hiring manager will know immediately what the email concerns. They understand the importance of getting straight to the point.
Include a Professional Electronic Signature
In the past, job seekers signed a cover letter sent to hiring managers. Job application emails should include your digital signature.
Electronic/digital signatures have several elements that make them very similar to your address on a traditional letterhead.
Include Your Name, Your Address, Your e-Mail, Your Contact information, and Your LinkedIn Profile URL in your electronic signature on job application emails.
Always add relevant attachments
Your job application email should include any supporting documents the employer requests.
These typically include a resume, cover letter, and maybe professional certifications.
Get Word document resume cover letter templates - Cover Letter Templates.
>Always check the format requested: PDF, Word document, before attaching them.
If you store your job applications on Google Docs, make sure you download the correct doc format.
Double-check all attachments before sending. Sometimes an applicant forgets to include this information in an email.
Use a professional email address
Ensure you use a professional-looking email address. Don't send job applications using the same email you used as a child or a fun email created at the age of 18, recruiters will not take it seriously. Include both first and last names in your email.
Examples of professional-looking email addresses for job applications- firstname.lastname@emailprovider.com
- firstname-lastname@emailprovider.com
- firstlastname@emailprovider.com
- firstname.lastname.tag@emailprovider.com
- firstname_lastname@emailprovider
Job Application Email Sample Templates
Here are some email templates for applying for a job.
Example Template Email Job Application 1 (General)
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to apply for the open ___________ position at ___________. I saw your advertisement on ___________ and believe that my skills, experience, and qualifications make me the perfect candidate for the job.
Enclosed you will find my resume and a list of references. If you have any questions or require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me at ___________. Thank you for your time considering my application.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Job Application Email Template 2 (Skills + Experience)
Dear [Name of Hiring Manager/Recruiter/Employer],
I am interested in the [Job Title] position that is currently open at your company. I am confident that I have the skills and experience that would make me the perfect candidate for the job.
Some of my strongest qualifications include my [Skill or Experience (1)] and my [Skill or Experience (2)]. I have been working in this field for [Number] years and have a lot to offer your company. I am confident that I could be a valuable asset to your team.
Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Job Application Email Template 3 (Reasons + Skills)
I am interested in the [position] job opening and would like to apply.
I am a good fit for this job because Reason (1) and Reason (2). My relevant skills and experience include Skill (1) and Skill (2).
Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
Example Template Email Job Application 4 (General)
I am interested in applying for the ___________ position at ___________. I am confident that I have the skills and experience needed for the job and would be a valuable member of your team.
Please find my resume attached. I will be available at ___________ if you have any questions or need additional information.
Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example Template Email Job Application 5 (General)
I am applying for the ___________ position at ___________. I am confident that I possess the necessary skills and experience for the job and would be a valuable addition to your company.
Enclosed you will find my resume and a list of references for your review. If you have any questions or require additional information, please contact me at ___________ . Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Job Application Email Template 6 (+ Work Experience)
I am writing in regard to the ___________ position at ___________. I am confident that I possess the necessary skills and experience for the job and would be a valuable contributor to your team.
My relevant experience includes:
- Example (1) of work experience
- Example (2) of work experience
- Example (3) of work experience
I am a motivated and hardworking individual always looking for new challenges. I am confident that I can be a valuable asset to your company and would appreciate the opportunity to interview for this position.
Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Job Application Email Template 7 (+ Qualifications)
My name is ___________ and I am writing in regard to the ___________ position at ___________ . Based on the job description and my qualifications, I strongly believe that I am the best candidate for this position.
Some of my relevant qualifications include:
- Qualification (1)
- Qualification (2)
- Qualification (3)
Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
Your Name]
Enclosure: Resume
Job application email template 8 (+ Skills)
I am interested in the open position at your company and would like to submit my resume for your consideration.
I have the skills and qualifications that you are looking for. In particular, I would like to highlight the following:
- Skill (1)
- Skill (2)
- Skill (3)
Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Key Takeaways - Job Application Email Examples
Follow the instructions in the job listing on the company website or job board when applying for a job.
If you're unsure how to format an email job application, remember these 5 things:
- Make sure your email is clear and concise
- Include all the required information in the body of the email
- Attach additional documents as instructed
- Be professional and courteous
- Don't forget to proofread your email before sending it
Sending a well-written job application email can help you stand out from the competition and increase your chances of receiving a job offer and getting hired.