How to write a great job application email (with examples)
Employers receive hundreds of job application emails in a day. Getting yours noticed is the first hurdle before landing an interview. With the high competition rate, you’d want your application to stand out.
Your job application email is important, so we’ve prepared a complete guide on how to write an email to apply for a job and other useful tips when sending your application via email.
- What is a job application email?
- Before you begin
- Crafting the perfect subject line
- The greeting
- The opening paragraph
- The body of the email
- The closing paragraph
- Attaching your resume and other documents
- Proofreading and editing
- The follow-up
- Job application email template
- Job application email examples
- Summary
- Frequently asked questions
What is a job application email?
A job application email is your way of signifying interest in a job opening. Consider it the condensed and simplified version of your resume and cover letter.
It is your first point of contact and lets you connect to the hiring manager directly. On average, a recruiter receives 250 job application emails for every job opening and spends only 7 seconds or less on each one.
A well-crafted job application email is your chance to make a good impression–even if it’s online. Your email must be brief, comprehensive, professional, and tailored to the job opening. Remember, this is the first step to landing an interview and it will set the tone for the rest of your application process.
Before you begin
Writing a job application email is a strategic endeavor. The goal is to stand out from the crowd in a short amount of time. You need to show the recruiter at a glance that you are what they are looking for.
Before applying for a job, you have to come to the field prepared. In the competitive world of job hunting, knowing the company and what they’re looking for is vital to your success. It gives you an edge over other applicants who are vying for the same position. If you want to stay ahead of the curve, here’s how to prepare.
Research the company
Begin with knowing and understanding the company’s values and culture by visiting its official website, and clicking on the “About Us” page. This will inform you of the company’s mission and what they do or contribute to the market or society. Apart from their website, you can check out their official social media platforms to learn about their current activities.
This is also the perfect time to check if your passion, values, and interests likewise align with theirs. Get both sides of the story and research more about the company culture through news and other external websites.
After doing your research, it’s time to identify the critical aspects of the job description. Find what is expected and then, tailor your application by listing down your skill set and qualifications.
Gather the necessary information
Get the contact information of the human resources department, the job reference number or code, or any other formatting guidelines or specific requirements for the job posting.
You’ll have a better chance of landing at least an interview if you know all these and can tick off everything on their list. Again, it’s always better to prepare.
Crafting the perfect subject line
Choose a clear and concise subject line that will make it easier for them to see your email and know exactly what it’s about.
In essence, the subject line should clearly state the following:
- The purpose of the email
- Specific job title, with a reference number if applicable
- Full name of the applicant
You can further personalize the subject line for a human touch in these instances:
- Write the name of the recipient if you know their name. (Example: Hello, Theresa - Here is my resume for the veterinarian position.)
- Mention your significant qualifications that match the job description. (Example: Job Application: Social Media Manager with ten years of experience - Maria Isabela Garcia)
- Add your academic degrees after your name, as required by the position. (Example: Job Application - Business Manager - Jose Cortez, MBA)
In general, here are sample subject line formats that you could use:
- Application for [Position] - [Name]
- Application: [Position], [Name]
- [Name] - Application for [Position] [Reference Number]
- [Name] - [Position] Application
Here are more examples of clear and concise subject lines:
- Application for Social Media Manager Position - Juan dela Cruz
- Application: Marketing Manager Position, Juan dela Cruz
- Juan dela Cruz - Application for Virtual Assistant Position (Posting #7890)
- Juan dela Cruz - Legal Secretary Application
No matter how enthusiastic you are for the job, avoid writing your subject line in all caps. You’ll come across as demanding, and to some people, impolite. Practice proper email etiquette.
The greeting
Before you can start your job application email, first, find out to whom the email should be addressed. This is usually found in the job description. It may be the hiring manager or a specific recruiter. If there’s no information available, you can use generic salutations like “To whom it may concern,” “Dear Recruiting Manager,” or “Dear Hiring Manager.”
The beginning of a job application email must be written in a polite yet professional tone. You can start with professional greetings such as:
- Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name]
- Dear [First Name] [Last Name]
- Hello [Recruiter’s Name]
If you are addressing the recipient by their name, make sure you spell it correctly. Always double-check this detail before you click send. And most importantly, no matter the circumstance, do not refer to the hiring manager as Mam/Sir.
The opening paragraph
The opening paragraph of your job application email should already be the strong hook that gives the hiring manager all the information they need in one look. In your first sentence, briefly state your name, your purpose for writing, and an overview of your professional experience.
This is the perfect time to express your enthusiasm for the role and highlight your relevant professional experience and skills. You can also mention when and where you saw the job posting and the person who referred you, if applicable.
For example: “I am writing to express my interest in the [Position Name] posted on [Company Name]'s website. As a graduate of [Field of Study] from [University], I am excited to apply my skills and knowledge in the professional environment of [Company Name].”
The body of the email
The body of the job application email is where you get to share more of your professional story with the potential employer. This part should contain a concise narrative of your skill set, qualifications, and relevant experiences that match what the job posting is looking for.
For example: “I gained valuable experience in college through various internships and volunteer and organizational work. These experiences helped me develop a strong work ethic and attention to detail.”
On another note, avoid emojis in your job application email. You don’t know the hiring manager enough to warrant emojis, even if it is just a smiley face.
Showcase your skills
According to the 2023 JobStreet PH Hiring Outlook Report, qualifications and relevant work experience are the top considerations of companies when offering jobs to candidates. You don’t have to show them all the things you have done in the past. Focus on the skills and qualifications that match the job description.
Once you know which achievements will contribute to your case, provide concrete examples of these achievements. Provide data, statistics, or other information that led to this achievement.
Some aspects to help you quantify your accomplishments are:
- The increase in sales or profits
- Number of clients or employees handled
- Length of professional experience in the related industry
- Relevant rankings
For instance, when applying to be a social media manager, you can say, “At my previous job, my contributions as the Social Media Manager drove 50 percent more traffic to the organization’s website, which resulted in a 20 percent increase in profit.”
Demonstrate company fit
It’s not enough that you’re the right person for the job. You should also show that you’re a good fit for the company. This is the part where you apply what you found while researching the company.
Stress how the company’s values, mission, or vision align with yours. Substantiate this general assertion with examples of how you embody the company culture. Relate your capabilities and personality with the information you may have learned about the company through its website, social media accounts, and news or external sites.
For example: “During my research, I learned that [Company] takes sustainability seriously. This is in line with my values as I have been a member of [environmental organization] for 5 years.”
Explain employment gaps or career transitions
Nobody has a perfect track record. It’s inevitable to have employment gaps, which employers might notice in your resume. Be upfront and truthful with the employer about the employment gap.
By explaining these gaps or career transitions, you’re showing the employer your capacity to turn your weaknesses into a newfound source of strength. Focus on letting them know that despite the setback, you still used the time for valuable activities that advanced your professional skills to prepare you for re-entry into the workforce.
The closing paragraph
As you conclude your job application email, reiterate your enthusiasm and suitability for the role and the company. Also, express your gratitude to the employer for the opportunity to apply and to consider your application.
Of course, you don’t want this email to be the last, so place call-to-action information before you end the email. Express your willingness to provide additional information and availability to schedule an interview at their convenience. Finally, complete the job application email with a professional sign-off like “Best regards,” “Sincerely,” or simply, “Best.”
On the other hand, your email signature should contain all your contact information. Hiring managers do not have the luxury of time to look for your contact details, so place them where they’re easily accessible, like the end of your job application email.
Here’s a sample format of an email signature:
- [First Name] [Last Name]
- Contact Number
- Email Address
- Jobstreet Profile URL
Attaching your resume and other documents
A job application email will only be complete with the relevant attachments. These usually are the applicant’s resume, cover letter, and portfolio, if applicable.
Make sure that these attachments are formatted for compatibility and easy readability of the hiring managers. If the job posting has a required format and materials, follow them and make sure to attach all requirements. You can send them as PDF documents if no format is specified.
Don’t forget to double-check their file names which should be in a professional format like “Juan dela Cruz_Resume” or “Cover Letter_Juan dela Cruz.” Make sure to change the file names if they’re still titled “Resume-2023-Final.”
Finally, before you hit send, make sure that these documents are attached to the email. You don’t want to give the hiring manager the burden of messaging you just to resend those documents.
Proofreading and editing
Take a few minutes to give a final look at your job application email. This is your last time to catch those typographical or grammatical errors.
Read your job application email as a whole and check if you used a polite and professional tone and all other formalities required by the employer. You can also ask a friend or enlist a professional service for a constructive second opinion on your job application email.
In the end, having a polished, error-free email will demonstrate your dedication and attention to detail to the hiring manager in your first correspondence with them as a potential employer.
The follow-up
One week is sufficient time to follow up on the job application email. Be diligent in getting the hiring manager’s details through the company website or the job posting.
As you write this follow-up email, reiterate your interest in the position and politely remind them of your qualifications that fit who they are looking for. End your follow-up email with a call-to-action, letting them know your interest in proceeding with a job interview, your availability, and contact details.
However, if you still haven’t received a response from the employer after another one to 2 weeks, it’s time to move on. This might be hard news to take, but remember, this is not the end of the world. Job opportunities are waiting for you, especially on JobStreet. The only difference is that you’ll have a higher chance of getting noticed because you already know how to write an outstanding job application email.
Job application email template
Subject: Application for [Job Title] - [Your Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],
I am [Applicant’s Name], writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] posted on [Website] on [Date]. My skills and experience make me a strong candidate for this position within your organization.
I earned a Bachelor's degree in [related field] from [University]. I have [# years] of experience in [specific industry]. My previous work experience demonstrated my ability to [specific, quantifiable achievements related to the vacant position]. I am also committed to improving my professional skills, which led me to finish additional courses in [relevant certification].
I also possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills, making me comfortable working in a team and adapting to proactive work environments like yours. I am excited to be part of and contribute to [Company Name]'s success and take on new challenges that will help me grow personally and professionally. My skills and experience would be an asset to your organization, and I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.
Thank you for taking the time to consider my application. I have attached my resume, cover letter, and portfolio to this email. I will keep my communication lines open should you have any clarifications regarding my application.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Your JobStreet Profile URL]
Job application email examples
Here are sample emails for job applications in three different scenarios: for fresh graduates, career advancers, and career professionals. Feel free to use these email application templates to kickstart your job-hunting journey.
Job application email sample for fresh graduates
Don’t get discouraged just because you’re a fresh graduate. The latest JobStreet PH Hiring Outlook Report found that 54 percent of the surveyed companies hired fresh graduates in the past 12 months, and 8 out of 10 large companies have a higher likelihood of hiring fresh graduates.
Subject: Application for [Job Title] - [Your Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],
I am writing to express my interest in the [Position Name] posted on [Company Name]'s website. As a graduate of [Field of Study] from [University], I am excited to apply my skills and knowledge at [Company Name].
I gained valuable experience during my collegiate years through various internships and volunteer and organizational work. These experiences molded me to develop a strong work ethic and attention to detail. The problem-solving and communication skills that I have mastered have also helped me build strong relationships with my colleagues and our organization’s stakeholders.
My academic achievements and work experience make me an ideal candidate for this position. I am passionate about contributing to [Company Name] 's success and excited to work with the best in the industry.
I attached my resume, cover letter, and other necessary documents for your consideration. I look forward to discussing my qualifications for the role in [Company Name]. Thank you for taking the time to consider my application.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Your JobStreet Profile URL]
Job application email sample for career advancers
Subject: [Job Title] Application: [Your Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am [Your Name] writing to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I have [#] years of experience in [Industry] for an array of companies, such as [Previous Companies].
I have been working as a [Similar Position] at [Company Name], a company dedicated to [Brief description of Company]. I handle [Brief description of tasks in the past job]. For instance, [Company Name] experienced an [Data] increase in sales and an [Data] increase in engagement across their social media platforms after a month-long campaign under my leadership.
I have appreciated my time at [Company Name], but I am now eager to pursue professional growth in my career. The [Job Title] at [Company] is a great opportunity where I can manage results-focused campaigns and implement the company's strategy and leadership plans for its stakeholders.
I attached my resume, cover letter, and portfolio to this job application email. I look forward to discussing this role and working with [Company].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Your JobStreet Profile URL]
Job application email sample for experienced professionals
Subject: Application for [Job Title] - [Your Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am [Name], writing to express my strong interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] that I came across on [Website Name]. With [X years] of experience in [Industry], I possess the skills and qualifications necessary to contribute to your prestigious organization.
In my previous role at [Past Company] as [Past Position], I was responsible for [Quantifiable Responsibility or Achievement]. This experience taught me a strong understanding of [Related Skill or Knowledge], which would be particularly relevant to the requirements of the [Job Title] position.
I firmly believe that my skills and experience would be an asset to your team, and I am excited to apply them in this new role. I am particularly drawn to [Company Name]'s commitment to [Company Values, Mission or Vision Statement], as they align with my professional core values.
I attached my resume, cover letter, and other relevant documents for your consideration. I would be glad to discuss my application with you further. I am available for an interview at your convenience. Thank you for taking the time to consider my application, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Your JobStreet Profile URL]
Summary
Crafting a standout job application email should showcase the skills that make you the perfect fit for the role and the company.
Doing so requires dedication and attention to detail. Know the company and the job position you’re applying for. Make a compelling case for your skills and competency for the position. Give them all the information they’ll need to reach out to you.
Master all these, and your job application emails will surely rise to the top of the recruiter’s inboxes and land you interviews and jobs in no time.
Frequently asked questions
- What if I can't find the hiring manager's name?
Suppose you can’t find the hiring manager’s name. In that case, you can simply use a general, gender-neutral salutation in your job application email, such as “Dear Hiring Manager/Team” or “Dear Recruiting Manager/Team.”
- How long should my job application email be?
A job application email should generally contain 250 to 400 words and three to six paragraphs. This email is the condensed version of your cover letter, highlighting your skill set and qualifications for the job posting. It’s a summary, not an essay.
- Is it okay to use humor in my job application email?
Humor can be used in job application emails, but use it cautiously. Experts found that top candidates are in the best position to use humor in job applications since their resumes have already covered the requirements, and humor may make them stand out even more. For fresh graduates, this might not be applicable.
- How do I write a job application email if I have yet to gain experience?
Fresh grads should focus their job application email on the soft skills gained through extracurricular activities, organization membership, and educational courses. Employers will see value in these soft skills since they are best taught through real-life experiences. Also, emphasize your willingness to learn new skills by dedicating yourself to the position.
- Can I use the same job application email for multiple applications?
Job application emails are position-specific and aim to show your qualifications and fitness for the job and the company. Using the same email for multiple applications will defeat its purpose.
Ready to send job application emails that will surely catch the employer’s eye? #SEEKBetter jobs on JobStreet and browse the Career Advice page for expert tips. Create your Jobstreet profile today and download the Jobstreet app on Google Play or App Store.
