Email Cover Letters

When you're sending an email cover letter, it's important to follow the employer's instructions on how to submit your cover letter and resume, and to make sure that your email cover letters are written as well as any other correspondence you send. Even though it's quick and easy to send an email, it doesn't mean that you should write anything less than a detailed cover letter focused on why you are a good match for the job you are applying for.

When applying for employment via email, copy and paste your cover letter into the email message or write your cover letter in the body of an email message.

Sending Your Resume
If the job posting asks you to send an attachment, send your resume as a PDF or a Word document.

Many employers do not accept attachments. In these cases, paste your resume into your email message. Use a simple font and remove the fancy formatting. Don't use HTML. You don't know what email client the employer is using, so, simple is best because the employer may not see a formatted message the same way you do.

The Subject Line of Your Message
Make sure you list the position you are applying for in the Subject Line of your email address, so the employer is clear as to what job you are applying for.

Include Your Signature
Include a signature with your contact information, so it's easy for the hiring manager to get in touch with you.

Send a Test Message
Send the message to yourself first to test that the formatting works. If everything looks good, resend to the employer.

Double Check Your Letter
Make sure you spell check and check your grammar and capitalization. They are just as important in an email cover letter as in paper cover letters.

Sample Email Cover Letters

Sample Email Cover Letter With Attached Resume
Sample email cover letter to use when you are sending your resume as an attachment.

Sample Email Cover Letter With Resume Included
Sample email cover letter with resume included in the body of the email message.

How To:
Attach a File in Outlook
Send an Attachment with Yahoo Mail
Attach a File in GMail
Convert File to a PDF

Resume Resources

• How to Write a Resume
• Resume Samples
• Resumes and Cover Letters That Work!
• 10 Steps to a Killer Resume
• Posting Your Resume Online
• Resume Writing Software