Crafting the perfect email to accompany your resume can feel like a daunting task. You want to be professional and showcase your enthusiasm for the role, but also avoid being overly formal or generic. This email template is designed to strike that balance, providing you with a framework to confidently present your qualifications and make a strong first impression on potential employers. It's a starting point you can easily customize to fit your specific needs and target the key requirements outlined in the job description.
This template offers a clear and concise structure, highlighting your relevant skills and experience while demonstrating your genuine interest in the company and the open position. We'll guide you through crafting a compelling subject line, writing a personalized opening, summarizing your qualifications, and providing a call to action. Remember to tailor each section to align with the specific job you're applying for, emphasizing the achievements and skills that directly address the employer's needs.
Ready to take the guesswork out of emailing your resume? Use this template as a springboard to create a professional and engaging message that captures the attention of hiring managers and helps you land that all-important interview. We'll walk you through each element, offering tips and suggestions to help you personalize your message and showcase your unique value proposition.
Why a Professional Email Matters When Sending Your Resume
Sending your resume via email is often the first impression you make on a potential employer. A professional email showcases your attention to detail, communication skills, and overall professionalism, all of which are highly valued in any workplace. It demonstrates that you understand business etiquette and are serious about the opportunity.
Think of your email as an introduction to your qualifications. A sloppy, poorly written email can undermine the impact of even the most impressive resume. Recruiters often receive hundreds of applications, and a professional email helps your application stand out for the right reasons. It signals to the recruiter that you are organized, thoughtful, and respectful of their time. This positive initial impression can significantly increase your chances of getting your resume reviewed more thoroughly and potentially landing an interview.
Conversely, a poorly crafted email with grammatical errors, informal language, or missing attachments can create a negative impression, suggesting a lack of attention to detail, poor communication skills, or a general disregard for professionalism. Even if your resume is stellar, a subpar email could lead a recruiter to question your overall suitability for the role. In today's competitive job market, small details can make a big difference. Take the time to carefully craft your email to ensure it reflects your best self and enhances your chances of success.
Furthermore, the subject line of your email is crucial. It should be clear, concise, and informative, letting the recruiter know immediately the purpose of your email (e.g., "Application for [Job Title] - [Your Name]"). The body of the email should briefly introduce yourself, mention the position you are applying for, highlight one or two key qualifications, and express your enthusiasm for the opportunity. A well-written email, paired with a strong resume, is a powerful combination that can significantly improve your chances of securing an interview.
Subject Line Strategies for Emailing Your Resume
The subject line of your email is the first, and sometimes only, impression you make on a hiring manager. A well-crafted subject line can significantly increase the likelihood that your email will be opened and your resume reviewed. Therefore, it's crucial to strategically optimize your subject line for maximum impact. Avoid generic subject lines like "Resume" or "Application," as these often get lost in the shuffle or filtered out by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
Instead, aim for clarity and specificity. Include the job title you're applying for and your name. This immediately tells the recipient what the email is about and who it's from. If you have a referral, mentioning the referrer's name in the subject line can also boost your chances of being noticed. For example, "Application for Marketing Manager - [Your Name] - Referred by [Referrer's Name]." Using keywords from the job description in your subject line can also help demonstrate your relevance at a glance, increasing the likelihood of the hiring manager opening your email.
Here are some examples of effective subject lines:
- Application for [Job Title] - [Your Name]
- [Your Name] - [Job Title] Application - [Job ID, if available]
- [Job Title] Application - [Your Name] - [Relevant Skill or Qualification]
- Referred by [Referrer's Name] - Application for [Job Title] - [Your Name]
- [Your Name] - Experienced [Job Title] Candidate
Remember to keep your subject line concise and professional. Avoid using all caps or excessive punctuation, as this can make your email appear spammy. Before sending your email, double-check your subject line for any typos or errors. A polished and professional subject line signals to the recipient that you are a serious and detail-oriented candidate.
Essential Elements of Your Email Body
The body of your email is where you directly address the hiring manager and make your case for why they should consider your resume. It shouldn't simply reiterate your resume, but rather highlight key achievements and skills that align with the specific requirements of the job description. Consider this your opportunity to showcase your personality and enthusiasm, going beyond the dry facts presented in your resume. Tailor your message to each specific job you're applying for, referencing the company and position directly.
Start by directly stating the purpose of your email – that you are submitting your resume for the [Job Title] position. Briefly mention how you learned about the opportunity (e.g., job board, company website, employee referral). This context helps the recipient understand the relevance of your email immediately. Next, highlight 2-3 of your most relevant skills or accomplishments that directly address the needs outlined in the job description. Quantify your achievements whenever possible (e.g., "Increased sales by 20%," "Managed a team of 5," "Reduced project costs by 15%").
Demonstrate that you've done your research on the company and understand their values. Briefly mention something specific that resonates with you about their mission, culture, or recent projects. This shows genuine interest and initiative. Finally, express your enthusiasm for the opportunity and reiterate your confidence in your ability to succeed in the role. Politely request that they review your resume and express your availability for an interview at their earliest convenience. End with a professional closing such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards" followed by your full name.
Keep your email concise and easy to read. Avoid large blocks of text and use bullet points or short paragraphs to break up the information. Proofread carefully for any typos or grammatical errors. A well-written and tailored email body significantly increases the chances of your resume getting noticed.
Attaching Your Resume and Cover Letter Correctly
Attaching your resume and cover letter properly is crucial for ensuring your application is received and reviewed favorably. The way you name your files, the file format you choose, and even the instructions you give in your email all contribute to the professionalism of your application. Avoid careless mistakes that could lead to your application being overlooked.
Here are some key points to consider when attaching your documents: First, choose the right file format. PDF (Portable Document Format) is generally preferred because it preserves the formatting of your document across different operating systems and devices. This ensures that your resume and cover letter look exactly as you intended, regardless of how the recipient opens them. Avoid using .doc or .docx formats unless specifically requested, as these can sometimes display differently depending on the version of Microsoft Word being used. When saving as a PDF, ensure that it is text-searchable to allow Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to properly scan the content.
Second, name your files clearly and professionally. Use a consistent naming convention that includes your name and the document type. For example, "John_Doe_Resume.pdf" and "John_Doe_Cover_Letter.pdf" are much better than vague names like "Resume.pdf" or "Document1.pdf." Clear file names make it easy for recruiters to organize and quickly identify your documents. Finally, double-check that you have actually attached the files before sending your email. It's a common mistake, but easily avoided with a quick review before hitting the send button. Consider zipping large files if requested.
Lastly, in the body of your email, explicitly state that your resume and cover letter are attached and briefly mention what role you are applying for. This provides clarity and context for the recipient. You can also mention any specific instructions you followed, such as using a particular subject line or addressing the cover letter to a specific person. A well-crafted email, combined with correctly attached and named files, demonstrates attention to detail and professionalism.
Email Etiquette and Tone: Projecting Professionalism
When sending your resume via email, it's crucial to maintain a professional tone that reflects your suitability for the role and respect for the recipient's time. Your email serves as a first impression, and a well-crafted message can significantly increase the likelihood of your resume being reviewed. Avoid overly casual language, slang, or emojis. Instead, opt for clear, concise sentences that highlight your key qualifications and express your enthusiasm for the opportunity.
Pay close attention to grammar and spelling. Even minor errors can detract from your professionalism and suggest a lack of attention to detail. Proofread your email carefully before sending it, and consider using a grammar and spell checker to catch any mistakes you may have missed. Remember that the hiring manager likely receives numerous applications, so a polished and error-free email demonstrates your commitment to excellence.
Use a professional email address. Avoid using nicknames or unprofessional email addresses. A simple combination of your first and last name is typically the best option. Furthermore, ensure your email subject line is clear and informative, such as "Resume Submission - [Your Name] - [Job Title]". This allows the recruiter to quickly identify your email and its purpose. Finally, always include a professional signature with your full name, phone number, and LinkedIn profile URL, if applicable.
Keep your email brief and to the point. Hiring managers are often busy, so avoid lengthy paragraphs or unnecessary information. Focus on highlighting your key skills and experiences that are most relevant to the job description. A well-structured email with clear formatting makes it easier for the recipient to quickly assess your qualifications. Consider using bullet points or numbered lists to present key information in a concise and digestible manner.
Resume Example: email template to send resume for job
Below is a simple and clean resume example tailored to email template to send resume for job. Replace placeholder details with your own achievements.
Jane Doe
[email protected] · (555) 123-4567 · Anytown, USA · linkedin.com/in/janedoe · portfolio.com/janedoe
Professional Summary
Highly motivated and results-oriented marketing professional with 5+ years of experience crafting compelling email templates and executing successful email marketing campaigns. Proven ability to increase engagement, drive conversions, and improve overall email performance. Seeking to leverage expertise in email design and strategy to contribute to the growth of a dynamic organization.
Key Skills
- Email Template Design & Development
- Email Marketing Automation
- A/B Testing & Optimization
- Segmentation & Personalization
- Tools/Software: Mailchimp, HubSpot, Sendinblue, Marketo, HTML, CSS
Experience
Email Marketing Specialist — ABC Company (2019–Present)
- Increased email open rates by 15% through A/B testing and optimization of subject lines and preheader text.
- Developed and implemented automated email workflows that resulted in a 20% increase in lead conversion rates.
- Utilized Mailchimp and HubSpot to segment email lists and personalize messaging for targeted audiences.
Marketing Assistant — XYZ Company (2017–2019)
- Created and managed email marketing campaigns, resulting in a 10% increase in website traffic.
- Assisted in the development of email templates and landing pages.
Projects (Optional)
- Email Template Redesign: Redesigned company email templates resulting in a more modern and engaging look and feel. See: example.com/redesign.
Education & Certifications
- Bachelor of Science in Marketing — University of Anytown (2017)
- HubSpot Email Marketing Certification
Additional
- Awards: Marketing Excellence Award (2022) · Languages: English (Native) · Spanish (Conversational)
Proofreading and Testing Your Email Before Sending
Before you hit send, meticulously proofread and test your email. This step is crucial because errors, even small ones, can undermine your professionalism and make you appear less detail-oriented. A polished email demonstrates respect for the recipient's time and shows that you're serious about the opportunity.
Start by reading your email aloud. This helps you catch grammatical errors, awkward phrasing, and typos that you might miss when reading silently. Pay particular attention to the subject line, your contact information in the signature, and the recipient's name. Double-check that you've attached the correct resume and any other required documents. Verify that all links are functional and lead to the intended destination. It is beneficial to use a grammar and spell checker to ensure the writing is immaculate.
To ensure your email renders correctly, send a test email to yourself and view it on different devices (desktop, mobile). Check the formatting, especially if you've used any special characters or formatting. Make sure your resume attachment opens correctly and is easily readable. Consider asking a friend or colleague to proofread your email for a fresh perspective and to catch any errors you might have overlooked. Remember, the goal is to present yourself as a competent and professional candidate, and a flawless email is a vital step in achieving that goal.
Following Up After Sending Your Resume
Following up after submitting your resume is a crucial step in the job application process. It demonstrates your continued interest in the position and gives you an opportunity to reiterate your qualifications and enthusiasm. A well-timed and professionally crafted follow-up can significantly increase your chances of landing an interview. Don't assume your resume speaks for itself; proactive engagement shows initiative and sets you apart from other candidates.
When following up, aim for a window of 5-7 business days after submitting your resume and cover letter. This allows the hiring manager sufficient time to review applications. Keep your follow-up communication concise and to the point. Briefly reference the specific position you applied for and reiterate your key skills and experiences that align with the job requirements. Avoid simply asking if they've made a decision; instead, offer additional value or express continued interest in learning more about the role.
Consider these tips when crafting your follow-up email:
- Personalize your message: Address the hiring manager by name, if possible.
- Reference the job title: Remind them which position you're interested in.
- Highlight key qualifications: Briefly mention your most relevant skills and experiences.
- Express continued interest: Reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity.
- Offer additional information: Suggest providing more details or answering any questions they may have.
- Proofread carefully: Ensure your email is free of errors in grammar and spelling.
If you don't receive a response after your initial follow-up, consider sending a second, brief email after another week or two. However, avoid being overly persistent, as this could be perceived as pushy. It's essential to strike a balance between demonstrating your interest and respecting the hiring manager's time. Remember to maintain a professional and positive tone throughout your communication.
FAQs
What's the best format for attaching my resume? Generally, PDF is the preferred format. It preserves your formatting across different operating systems and devices. While .docx files are also common, there's a higher chance of formatting inconsistencies depending on the recipient's software. Always double-check the job posting for any specific file format requirements.
Should I include a cover letter in the email body or as a separate attachment? While attaching a cover letter as a separate document is perfectly acceptable, including a concise and compelling summary in the email body itself can grab the hiring manager's attention immediately. Think of the email as a mini-cover letter that highlights your key qualifications and enthusiasm for the role. You can then expand on these points in a more detailed cover letter attachment if you choose.
How long should my email be? Keep it brief and to the point. Hiring managers are often busy and inundated with applications. Aim for a concise email of no more than 3-4 paragraphs. Focus on highlighting your most relevant skills and experience and expressing your genuine interest in the opportunity. Avoid lengthy introductions or unnecessary details.
What if I don't have all the qualifications listed in the job description? Don't be discouraged from applying! Focus on the skills and experiences you *do* possess that align with the requirements. In your email, highlight your transferable skills and express your willingness to learn and adapt. Show your enthusiasm and demonstrate how your unique strengths can benefit the company.
How quickly should I follow up after sending my resume? It's generally acceptable to follow up within 5-7 business days if you haven't heard back. Keep your follow-up email brief and professional. Reiterate your interest in the position and briefly mention a key skill or accomplishment that makes you a strong candidate. Avoid being overly persistent or demanding.
Next Steps & Continued Success
We encourage you to review and refine your resume based on the specific requirements of each role you apply for. Tailoring your skills and experience to match the job description can significantly increase your chances of success.
Don't forget to regularly revisit our website for new opportunities and to update your profile with any new skills or accomplishments. We look forward to potentially connecting with you soon!