How to Write an Email for a Job Application: Step-by-Step Guide

Searching for a new job can be an exciting yet nerve-wracking process. You spot a role that seems ideal for your skills and experience. You meticulously update your resume to highlight how youโ€™d be a great fit. But then comes the actual application โ€“ crafting an email that will notify the hiring manager. The stakesโ€ฆ

Written by

Gracie Jones

Published on

January 24, 2024
BlogCareer
Using a step-by-step guide, a woman is sitting at a desk with a laptop and writing an email for a job application while sipping on her cup of coffee.

Searching for a new job can be an exciting yet nerve-wracking process. You spot a role that seems ideal for your skills and experience. You meticulously update your resume to highlight how youโ€™d be a great fit. But then comes the actual application โ€“ crafting an email that will notify the hiring manager.

The stakes feel high. After all, your email is likely the first impression a recruiter will have of you. Make it count by following these tips on how to write an email for a job application.

Learn Writing An Effective Email For A Job Application.

How to write an Email for a Job Application:

Grab Their Attention With the Subject Line

Youโ€™ve got mere seconds to pique the hiring managerโ€™s interest. An eye-catching subject line is key.

Avoid: Application for [Job Title] role

Do: Award-winning Marketer Eager to Boost SalesPower words like โ€œaward-winningโ€ and โ€œeagerโ€ help you stand out from the inbox crowd. 

Specifying how you can help the company is another plus.

Start With a Strong Opening Paragraph

First impressions matter. Use your opening paragraph to introduce yourself, express enthusiasm for the role, and highlight one or two top selling points.

Dear Hiring Manager, I knew I had to apply When I saw [Company Name] was looking for a new [Job Title]. With over seven years of experience boosting customer retention and online engagement, I have precisely the skills you need.


Keep it short, sincere, and focused on communicating your fit.

Emphasize Relevant Skills and Experience

Now itโ€™s time to elaborate on those skills hinted at earlier. Pick 2-3 key qualifications listed in the job ad and discuss how your background stacks up.

Provide concrete evidence over generic cliches. 

For example:

โœ… Increased customer renewal rate by 15% over two years by improving loyalty programs.

โŒ Exceptional customer service skills.

Weave in facts, figures, and examples that reinforce your expertise in these vital areas.

Align With Company Values

Todayโ€™s job seekers want to work for companies whose values resonate with their own. Demonstrating shared principles can help you stand out while communicating cultural fit.

For example:

Iโ€™m drawn to [Company Name] for the exciting work and the commitment to sustainability. Having led green initiatives at my university campus, Iโ€™m passionate about minimizing environmental impact while delivering top-notch service.

Close With a Call to Action

Finish strong by recapping why youโ€™re an ideal candidate and expressing eagerness for the next steps:

My mix of social media, customer loyalty, and green initiative experience would allow me to thrive in this role. Iโ€™d like to discuss further how I can help [Company Name] continue delighting customers in eco-friendly ways. Please let me know if any additional information would be helpful.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Mistakes to Avoid

To craft an impeccable job application email, itโ€™s crucial to avoid common pitfalls that can undermine your efforts:

  1. Typos and Grammatical Errors: Proofread meticulously. Even small mistakes can imply a lack of attention to detail.
  2. Generic Descriptions: Tailor your email to the specific job and company. Generic, one-size-fits-all messages often fail to impress.
  3. Overuse of โ€œIโ€ Statements: Balance self-promotion with how you can contribute to the company. Itโ€™s not just about you but what you can offer.
  4. Forgetting Contact Information: Always include your contact details. Making it easy for employers to reach you is fundamental.

Polishing your email to sidestep these mistakes can significantly enhance your chances of making a positive impression.

Still Unsure? Use This Email Template

If crafting the perfect email feels overwhelming, start by plugging your details into this application email template:

Dear [Hiring Managerโ€™s Name],

When I discovered the [Job Title] role listed on [Website Name], it felt like a dream opportunity. [1-2 sentences on why youโ€™re interested]. With [X years] of experience [accomplishment A], [accomplishment B], and [accomplishment C], I have precisely the background youโ€™re looking for.

I was particularly intrigued by [detail from job listing that excites you]. [Elaborate in 1-2 sentences]. [If possible, align with company values here].

In closing, my skills in [key qualification 1], [key qualification 2] and [key qualification 3] would allow me to thrive in this position. Please find my resume attached. Iโ€™d happily provide any other information needed and look forward to discussing this further!

Tweak it to fit each application, and youโ€™ll have a professional email sure to impress.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Should I address the hiring manager by name?

Yes, ideally, use their name (e.g. Dear Jane Smith) if listed in the job ad or on the companyโ€™s site. If unavailable, โ€œDear Hiring Managerโ€ is better than no name.

How long should the email be?

Aim for 3-5 concise paragraphs. Avoid giant blocks of text by using line breaks.

Is it OK to get creative with formatting?

Best to keep it simple. Stick to basic business letter format without overdoing fonts, colors etc.

Crafting that first job application email is challenging. But taking the time to make it engaging, personalized, and error-free can help your application stand out โ€“ putting you one step closer to landing an interview! What tips do you find most useful when writing application emails? Iโ€™d love to hear which strategies have worked for you.