Effective job inquiry emails samples
In this article, we discuss the appropriate email format for sending a resume and why it's important to consider.
We also provide job application email templates you can use in your search.
Many roles you apply for will only require you to submit your resume online, especially if your search is primarily through LinkedIn and other job boards.
However, research based on over 13 million applications shows that while most job applications come through company career sites and job boards, only 1.4% and 0.7% of these applicants, respectively, were actually hired.
You're much more likely to be successful in landing an offer if you go through a hiring manager (32.5% applicants hired), recruiter (14.1%), or a referral (7.8%).
As you realign your job search strategy toward these more effective methods, you'll find that the process entails significantly more direct human contact.
Instead of passively submitting your resume through a portal and hoping for a response, you'll likely email it to someone who works at the company, a recruiter, or a hiring manager.
Even if your internal contact is a close friend, we encourage you to pay special attention to any job-related communication.
Whenever you email your resume, keep the following general guidelines in mind:
- To be on the safe side, always assume that any email you send will get forwarded to the appropriate decision-makers.
- Remember that anything that you put in writing can help demonstrate your professionalism and further make your case - or it can work against you!
- Assume that any written communication until you have an offer in hand will be used as part of the evaluation process.
- Always attach your resume in PDF format. A PDF file will ensure that your formatting remains consistent and that your content isn't accidentally modified.
- Keep your emails short and to the point. While you want to provide a brief overview of why you are a good fit, an email is not the appropriate outlet for a full-fledged cover letter.
If you are responding to a job posting that requires you to submit your resume via email
Subject Line: [Position Title] - [Company Name]
Dear [Recipient Name],
I am writing to express my interest in the [Position Title] with [Company Name], which I learned about through [source name].
Based on my experience as [insert relevant experience(s) here], I believe that I would be a strong contributor to your team.
In particular, I am interested in joining [Company Name] because [insert reason related to role responsibilities, transferable skills, growth opportunity, etc.].
Please see my attached resume for more detail regarding my background and let me know if you have any questions.
Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you regarding potential next steps.
Best regards,
[Name]
If you are sending your resume to a recruiter who contacted you on LinkedIn, someone you met at a networking event, or a personal contact
Subject Line: Resume - [Position Title] - [Company Name]
Dear [Recipient Name],
It was nice speaking with you [yesterday / at the networking event / etc.]!
As we discussed, I am interested in being considered for the [Position Title] position with [Company Name].
I attached my resume for your review, and feel free to forward it along as needed.
Please let me know if you have any additional questions regarding my background, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best regards,
[Name]
If you are sending a cold email to inquire about potential openings
Subject Line: [Company Name] – Opportunity Inquiry
Dear [Recipient Name],
I am a [Position Name] with experience in [describe experience areas].
I am interested in pursuing a [Position Title] position with [Company Name] and am reaching out to ask whether there are currently any open opportunities that I might be a good fit for.
I am particularly interested in joining [Company Name] because [insert specific reason(s) here].
I attached my resume for your review. Please let me know if you have any questions regarding my background.
Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best regards,
[Name]
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