How to Email a Resume and Cover Letter to a Potential Employer (With Example + 2 Templates)

Many employers accept resumes through online job applications, but some may ask you to email your resume instead. If this is the case, carefully read the job posting and follow the instructions to ensure you meet the employer's requirements. Submitting your resume correctly via email increases the chances of it being seen and can boost your chances of getting an interview.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through 6 easy steps for emailing your resume and provide an example email to help you submit a successful application. But first, avoid making the following mistakes:

• Being too informal. There is no need to be funny or friendly in your resume email. Keep it simple and professional. 

• Copying in your cover letter. This is considered lazy and redundant. Remember your email tells a lot about who you are!

• Spelling mistakes and grammar errors. Ensure you triple-check that email before you send it. A good trick is to read the email out loud as you are more likely to catch any errors that way. Or better yet, download a grammar-checking software such as Grammarly. 

Steps to Email Your Resume and Cover Letter

1. Follow Instructions

Before sending your resume, check the job posting for any specific application instructions. If the posting requests that you email your resume, it may include details such as the correct email address, subject line format, file name preferences, and any questions you need to answer in the email body. 

Be sure to follow these instructions precisely to ensure your resume is received and reviewed. Employers often use these guidelines to assess your attention to detail and ability to follow directions.

2. Attach Your Resume

Job seekers often forget to attach their resumes and cover letters to their emails. Before sending your application, make sure both documents are attached in the requested format. If no specific format is mentioned, a PDF or Microsoft Word file is usually acceptable.

Name your files appropriately. If the job posting specifies a particular naming format, follow those instructions. Otherwise, use a format that includes your name and the document type, such as JaneDoe_Resume or JaneDoe_CoverLetter.

Avoid generic names like “Resume” or “CoverLetter” as they make it difficult for the employer to distinguish your documents from others.

3. Write a clear subject line

Adhere to any specific subject line formatting instructions provided in the job description. If no instructions are given, create a clear and concise subject line that clearly conveys the purpose of your email. Here are some examples of effective subject lines for sending your resume:

• Resume – [Job Title] – [Your Name]

• Resume: [Your Name] for [Job Title]

• [Your Name] Resume: [Job Title]

4. Write the Email Body

Attaching your resume to a well-written email can be a highly effective strategy.

Remember to keep the email short, informative, and professional. Craft a concise and professional email body that introduces yourself and provides a brief overview of your application. Start with a polite greeting and mention the position you are applying for. Clearly state that you have attached your resume and cover letter for their review. If there were specific instructions in the job posting about what to include in the email body, make sure to address those.

Keep your message brief and to the point, and avoid using overly casual language. A well-written email body reinforces your professionalism and makes a positive first impression on the employer.

Example:

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Job Board/Company Website]. Attached to this email are my resume and cover letter for your review.

5. End the email

At the end of your resume email, use this opportunity to offer to answer any questions and inquire about the next steps in the hiring process.

In addition to your closing statement, include essential contact information that the recruiter might need. Always end your resume email with:

Your full name

Your phone number

A link to your LinkedIn profile

Example:

Please let me know if you have any questions or need additional information. I am eager to discuss how my background and skills align with the needs of your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to speak with you about the next steps in the hiring process.

Best regards,

Jane Doe

(555) 123-4567

linkedin.com/in/janedoe

6. Proofread your email

Before hitting send, take the time to carefully proofread your email. This final step is crucial to ensure that your message is clear, professional, and free of errors. Here’s what to check:

• Grammar and Spelling: Review your email for any grammatical or spelling mistakes. Even minor errors can create a negative impression. Use a spell-check tool like Grammarly and read through your email slowly to catch any issues.

• Formatting: Ensure that your email is properly formatted. Check that paragraphs are well-organized, and there are no misplaced or missing spaces. Consistent formatting reflects your attention to detail.

• Contact Information: Verify that your full name, phone number, and LinkedIn link (if included) are correct and clearly stated.

• Attachment Check: Confirm that your resume and cover letter are correctly attached. Double-check that the files are named appropriately and in the requested format if applicable.

• Overall Tone: Ensure the tone of your email is professional and respectful. Avoid overly casual language and ensure your closing statement is polite and appropriately formal.

Taking these steps helps ensure that your email is polished and professional, increasing the chances that your application will be well-received.

After you send in your resume, cover letter, and your well-crafted email to your potential employer, wait at least a week before sending a follow-up email. 

Crafting a well-written email is just one part of the process—having a standout resume and cover letter, as well as being prepared for the interview, is crucial to your success. 

Ready to take your job application to the next level? Book a session with us today to ensure your resume, cover letter, and interview skills are top-notch!

Sample Email Message

Here's a sample email message sent with resume and cover letter attachments to apply for a job:

Subject: Resume – Marketing Specialist – Jane Doe

Dear Mr. Smith,

I am writing to apply for the Marketing Specialist position at XYZ Company. Attached to this email are my resume and cover letter for your review.

Please let me know if you have any questions or need additional information. I am eager to discuss how my background and skills align with the needs of your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to speak with you about the next steps in the hiring process.

Best regards,

Jane Doe

(555) 123-4567

linkedin.com/in/janedoe

Template 1

Subject: Resume – [Position Title] – [Your Full Name]

Dear [Hiring Manager Name],

I am writing to apply for the [Position Title] position at [Name of Company]. Attached to this email are my resume and cover letter for your review.

Please let me know if you have any questions or need additional information. I am eager to discuss how my background and skills align with the needs of your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to speak with you about the next steps in the hiring process.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

[Your Phone Number]

[Link to your LinkedIn Profile]

Template 2

Subject: Application for [Job Title] Position – [Your Name]

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name ← do some research to find who you are emailing],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to express my interest in the [the name of the position] position. Attached to this email, you will find my cover letter and resume for your review. 

I believe my skills in [Key Skills Related to the Job] and my experience in [Relevant Experience] make me a strong candidate for this role. I am particularly drawn to [Company Name] because of [Specific Reason Related to the Company or Role], and I am confident that my expertise and passion would be a valuable addition to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing how my background, skills, and certifications align with the needs of your team. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address]. 

Sincerely,

[Name]

[Phone #]

[Link to LinkedIn Profile]

Crafting a well-written email is just one part of the process—having a standout resume and cover letter, as well as being prepared for the interview, is crucial to your success. 

Ready to take your job application to the next level? Book a session with me today at 613-305-2106 to ensure your resume, cover letter, and interview skills are top-notch!