How to Write an Outstanding Job Application Email (with 3 Samples!)

March 01, 2023

It’s really easy to apply for jobs these days.

Whether you apply via LinkedIn EasyApply or Job Portals, your profile and CV get sent to HR in just one click.

But sometimes, there are no shortcuts. Some job ads may specifically call for job applications to be submitted by email.

That’s why it’s absolutely critical to know how to craft a compelling email for your job application.

In this article, we’ll show you how to write a job application email that emphasises your competitive advantage, and provide some sample emails that you can use too.

What is A Job Application Email

Think of your job application email as a highly condensed version of your Cover Letter.

In our Cover Letter Guide, we explain that your Cover Letter is an opportunity to tell recruiters more about you on a personal level, and bring your best attributes and achievements to the fore.

Your Cover Letter convinces employers that you’re a worthy candidate by letting your career narrative and competitive advantage shine through.

Your Job Application Email is a more concise version of this. Feature only the top few highlights of your Cover Letter for your email.

These highlights act as a hook that entices recruiters and Hiring Managers to read your Resume and Cover Letter.

Why Write a Job Application Email

“Why can’t I just send an email cover letter?”

You actually can.

It’s not unacceptable to send an entire Cover Letter in an email format.

This actually depends on your personal preferences.

But at ResumeWriter, we believe that it’s far better to send an email with your Resume and Cover Letter attached.

Why?

  1. Attachments are easier for HR and the Hiring Manager to file, print, distribute and save for easier future reference.
  2. Emails might get lost in inboxes or accidentally deleted. Attachments are more obvious to your reader.
  3. If you get an email thread going from your initial email, which has the embedded Cover Letter, it’ll get pushed all the way to the bottom and likely forgotten about.

Doesn’t it sound more effective to send your Cover Letter as an attachment?

That said, how do you write a standout job application email?

Only 20% Of the Applicants Get to the Interview Round

Did you know?

If you got the interview call, you have probably beaten six candidates to secure this opportunity!

On average, out of 118 candidates who apply for one job, only 20% are interviewed.

And, if you get an offer, you are among just 30.89 percent of interviewees to be selected.

How to Write a Job Application Email

Remember, the objective of your email is to persuade potential employers of the value you’ll bring to the company.

Consider these questions when writing your Job Application Email:

  • How can the employer benefit from your experience and skill set?
  • How are you going to make an impact?
  • Why should they hire you over other candidates?

When you write a job application, it’s important that you customise it based on the person that will read your email.

For example, instead of using Dear Hiring Manager as an introduction, try and find the name of the hiring manager – this shows a little more care than a templated intro. There are some things that should be included in any job application you send.

What to Include in a Job Application Email

Include your:

  • Full Name
  • Title of Position you’re applying for
  • How you found out about the job
  • Reasons you’re applying
  • Competitive Advantage (Reasons why the employer should hire you)
  • Highlights of Your Experience, Achievements and Qualifications
  • LinkedIn Profile

Structure of a Job Application Email

  • Email Subject Line: Open with a concise and direct subject line that clearly states the email’s intent
  • Opening Line: Introduce yourself, state the position you’re applying for, and where/how you found out about the job.
  • Body Paragraph: Insert 2-3 short sentences outlining your competitive advantage, and why the employer should consider your application.
  • Ending Line: Conclude with a call-to-action for the employer to follow up, and thank them for reading your email.
  • Closing: End your email with a formal sign-off

Get more inspiration from our Job Application Email samples below.

3 Outstanding Job Application Email Samples

Sample 1: Job Application Email for a Digital Marketing Associate Position

Subject Line: Application for Digital Marketing Associate – Terry Lee Wei Jie

Dear Mr Lee,

I hope this email finds you well. My name is Terry Lee Wei Jie, and I would like to submit my application for the Digital Marketing Associate position that ABC Media posted on JobStreet Singapore last week.

I’m a journalist-turned-digital marketer, and specialise in online content creation, video production and content distribution. Having worked at a variety of media publications such as SPH Magazines, AsiaOne and Channel News Asia, I’m confident that I can leverage my expertise in digital media and marketing to grow readership and drive online engagement for ABC Media.

Please find my resume, cover letter and portfolio attached for your perusal. Should you have any questions or would like more information from me, feel free to reach me via email or mobile (+65 1234 2345).

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon!

Thank you.

Best Regards,
Terry Lee Wei Jie

Sample 2: Job Application Email for a Software Engineer Position

Subject Line: Application for Software Development Engineer – Kylie Lee

Dear Mrs Ho,

I hope this email finds you well. My name is Kylie Lee, and I would like to submit my application for the Software Development Engineer position that DEF Technologies posted on Monster Singapore last week.

I have 5 years of software development experience, and specialise in native Android app development in Kotlin and Java. I live and breathe code, and have seen 4 software projects to completion in my professional capacity, most notably the successful launch of QWERTY app, which has 50K users in Singapore today. As a market leader in Mobile App Development technologies, DEF Technologies’ projects are cutting edge. I would be beyond excited to contribute to your company’s mission to reshape the mobile app development industry!

Kindly find my resume, cover letter and GitHub portfolio URL attached. If you require more information, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with me via email or mobile (+65 1234 2345).

Thank you for considering my application. I’m excited to hear from you soon!

Warmest Regards,
Kylie Lee

Sample 3: Job Application Email for a Business Development Manager Position

Subject Line: Application for Business Development Manager – Desmond Tay

Dear Mr Smith,

I hope this email finds you well. My name is Desmond Tay, and I would like to submit my application for the Business Development Manager position that XYZ Company posted on JobStreet Singapore 3 days ago.

I’m presently a Business Development Manager for MNL Payway, a startup developing cross-border payment services. Over my 3 year tenure, I’ve doubled our startup’s key accounts from 20 to 40. I’ve also led the expansion of our operations across 5 SEA countries in the past 18 months. With XYZ Company’s operations centered around cryptocurrencies’ adoption and distribution in the region, I am confident of effectively contributing to your team through my expertise in financial services and digital payments.

Kindly find my resume and cover letter attached. Please feel free to contact me on email or mobile (+65 1234 2345) if you would need more information from me.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.

Kind Regards,
Desmond Tay

If you use an email address template from above, make sure to edit it based on your own circumstance – as hiring managers receive many emails, they can often tell when things are copy and pasted.

The hiring process can take a while, so don’t expect an email back straight away. Hopefully with this advice, you’ll be able to land your dream job.

Common Questions about Job Applications via Email

How do you write an email for job application?

Using the tips we’ve listed, you can write an email for your application by including the reason you’re applying, why you’re better than the competition and the experience that makes you qualified for the role.

How do I send my CV via email?

When you send your CV via email, make sure to use a professional email address. You can often find the hiring manager or recruiters email address online via their social media profile (like LinkedIn) or website.

What should I write in subject email when sending CV?

Be sure to use a clear subject line that describes exactly what your email entails – you sending your resume for a position or role currently open.

Is it correct to say please find attached?

Although some people don’t like this phrase, there’s actually nothing wrong with saying this if you want to attach your resume to your email. Just be sure to include a strong cover letter via email that describes why the hiring manager should consider you.

Harry Suresh