How to Write an Email for a Job Application

When conducting a job search, you may find yourself needing to write a job application email. This email can help make the difference in you landing a job. It is your chance to leave a positive impression on an employer and convince them to hire you.

When you first approach writing a job application email, it may feel intimidating. What should you include? What should you leave out? Which documents should you attach? If you are asking any of these questions, fear not. This guide will help you learn how to write a job application email.

Things You Need to Know About a Job Application Email

First, let's take a look at what a job application email is. Putting it in simple terms, a job application email is a cover letter that has been formatted into an email. It should be no more than a page long. In this space, you need to display your skills, qualifications, experience, and abilities to an employer.

When proving your worth in the email, ensure that you only include information that is relevant to the specific job you are applying for. Study the job description and research the employer to understand how you can tailor your job application email to them. You should also include the reasons why you are interested in the job, otherwise, an employer will have to assume your intentions.

If you are not willing to tailor to the specifics of the job, don't bother. An ill considered letter will hurt more than it will help.

You must also include other application documents in your email. These can be a resume, cover letter, or portfolio samples. Read the requirements set by the employer beforehand or reach out to know what application materials they expect from you.

How to Write an Email for a Job Application

Here are the steps for writing an email for a job application.

Begin the process by writing the subject line. Make sure to clearly outline your name and the job you're applying for. A hiring manager will likely receive many emails a day, so make it obvious to them or they may not open your email. A good template to use is, 'Application: [Your Name] — [Job Title].'

Start your email by addressing the hiring manager or employer correctly. This may be outlined in the job application, job description, or on the organization's website. If you are still struggling, consider contacting the company directly and ask them to who you should address the email to.

In your first paragraph, make yourself known to the hiring manager. Briefly tell them a bit about yourself and express the reasons why you are interested in applying for the job. This will help an employer familiarize themselves with you from the first point of contact in the job application email.

Fill your middle paragraphs with information about yourself that proves why you would be an excellent fit for the organization. Be specific when communicating your skills, qualifications, experience, and abilities to a hiring manager. Treat this section as a cover letter but transform it to fit into an email format. This is the body of your email, so utilize the space to persuade an employer that you are the candidate they're looking for.

In your final paragraph, you should say thanks to the hiring manager for taking the time to read your job application email. Be polite and let them know that you have attached other materials. You can also inform them of your availability for the next steps.

End your email politely, by using a closer such as 'best regards' or 'sincerely'. Ensure that your contact details are professional and include them underneath. These details can include an email address, phone number, or your LinkedIn profile URL.

It sounds obvious, but we still must remind ourselves to proofread properly before sending off an email. Edit any mistakes and take some time to alter sentences if they need improvement. Once completed, send your job application email to the employer. If you haven't heard back after a few weeks, follow up and ask for the status of your application.

Job Application Email Example

[Subject line] Application: John Smith — Customer Service Consultant

Dear Hiring Team

My name is John Smith, and I'm writing to you to apply for the customer service consultant role on your team at [insert company name]. I recently saw your job posting for this position, and as a motivated individual with a passion for helping others, I am interested in applying for this role. Upon reviewing my credentials, I'm hopeful that you can see why I believe I would be the perfect match for this position.

[Write two paragraphs detailing your previous positions and experience. Take tips from the article when you write this section of your job application email.]

Attached to the email are my [any other application materials]. Thank you for reading my application through and taking the time out of your day to do so. If you have any other questions, please find my contact details at the foot of this email. I look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

[Your Contact Information]