What to Write in an Email When Sending a Resume
Many job applications start online nowadays, and one of the first steps of this process is sending your resume to the recruiter. The purpose of a resume is to get you to the next step—the job interview. But before that, you have to get your foot in the door and leave a good impression, which you can do right when you send that first email, which allows you to set yourself up for when the recruiter evaluates your resume.
This email should include a clear subject line, a brief self-introduction, a summary of your objectives for applying, and a proposal to meet in an interview. The best resume writing service should be able to help you craft the most effective resume, plus the email that comes with it.
How to Email a Resume
Unlike how detailed a resume should be, the email that comes with sending it is much simpler. It needs to be succinct; it should only include the most pertinent details. Everything your recruiter needs to know is already in your cover letter and resume.
Here’s what you need to know when emailing a resume:
Use an Effective Subject Line
The subject line is the first thing your recruiter sees, so it has to be spot on. Make sure it includes the title of the position (and the job ID, if applicable) and your name: Job Application – Job Title, Job ID – Your Name.
You can mention if you’ve been referred or recommended for the job: “Referral from Name: Job Application – Job Title, Job ID – Your Name.”
Some companies require applicants to email their resumes with a specific subject line. Double-check if this applies to you and follow their instructions.
Get the Details Right
It’s best to email your resume directly to the hiring manager, so make sure you find their contact details and address them by name in your email. Having a more personal approach can help you make a better first impression.
Keep the Body Short and Formal
Your email has to be informative yet concise. Start with a formal greeting, then briefly introduce yourself and why you’re sending this email–this is where you mention the job you’re applying for.
You can then insert a few details of your most relevant qualifications and achievements. Close the body of your email by tying the previous section to the job (i.e. explaining how you can use these qualifications to provide value to the company).
End With a Call-To-Action
End your email with a captivating call-to-action (e.g. to meet in person or hop on a Zoom call) and a professional sign-off with an email signature that includes your contact details.
Attach Your Resume
Remember to attach your resume to your email! Before you do, though, ensure that it’s in the right format (typically either .pdf or .doc) and properly labeled so that it’s easy to find.
Tips for Emailing a Resume
Still a bit nervous about emailing your resume? Here are a few tips to help you feel more confident before you hit that “send” button:
Check for Special Instructions
Many recruiters add special instructions when they ask you to apply. This could be a specific format for the subject line, the format of your attachments, or the mention of a certain phrase. It’s important to check for these because many employers ignore applicants who don’t follow instructions.
Use a Professional Email Address
It’s time to retire that fun email address you made in middle school. Be sure to send all of your professional correspondences from an email address with your first and last name.
Proofread and Test
Check for any typos and grammatical errors, reading through your email to ensure it makes sense. To be sure that all the formatting is correct and your attachments open as they should, send yourself a test email before you send it to your prospective employer.
In Summary
Remember that the email that comes with sending your resume isn’t your cover letter, nor is it a summary of your resume. Keep it concise, but include the important details. For more tips, check out The Jub’s career resources on resume writing and sending!
Author: Becky is a contributor for theJub. She’s a writing and talent acquisition specialist who loves to apply her skills through creative writing and editing.
