Applying for a job by email can be a convenient and effective way to showcase your interest and qualifications for a position. However, it also requires careful attention to detail and professionalism to make a good impression and increase your chances of getting an interview. In this article, we will discuss the three main things you need to apply for a job by email and how to write them effectively.
The three main things you need are:
- The job description
- A cover letter customized to the job description
- A professional CV that sells you all around, your skills, strengths, achievements and unique qualities
The job description
The job description is the document that outlines the responsibilities, requirements and expectations of the position you are applying for. It is important to read it carefully and understand what the employer is looking for in a candidate. You can use the job description as a guide to tailor your cover letter and CV to the specific role and highlight how you meet the criteria.
A cover letter customized to the job description
A cover letter is a one-page document that introduces yourself, explains why you are interested in the position and showcases how your skills and experience match the job requirements. A cover letter should be customized to each job application, using keywords and phrases from the job description. A good cover letter should have the following structure:
- A salutation: Address the letter to a specific person, if possible, or use a generic greeting such as “Dear Hiring Manager”.
- An introduction: State the position you are applying for, how you learned about it and why you are interested in working for the company.
- A body: Highlight your relevant skills, achievements and qualifications that make you a suitable candidate for the role. Use specific examples and numbers to demonstrate your impact and value. Show how you can solve the employer’s problems or needs with your skills and experience.
- A conclusion: Summarize your main points, restate your interest in the position and thank the reader for their time and consideration. Include a call to action, such as requesting an interview or inviting them to contact you for more information.
- A sign-off: End the letter with a professional closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards”, followed by your name and contact details.
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A professional CV
A CV (curriculum vitae) is a document that summarizes your education, work experience, skills and other relevant information for a job application. A CV should be concise, clear and well-organized, highlighting your most important and relevant qualifications for the role. A good CV should have the following sections:
- Personal details: Include your name, phone number, email address and location at the top of your CV. You can also add a professional summary or objective statement that briefly describes who you are, what you offer and what you are looking for.
- Education: List your academic qualifications in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent one. Include the name of the institution, the degree or certificate obtained, the dates of attendance and any honors or awards received.
- Work experience: List your work history in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent one. Include the name of the employer, the position title, the dates of employment and a brief description of your responsibilities and achievements. Use bullet points and action verbs to highlight your skills and accomplishments. Quantify your results whenever possible.
- Skills: List any relevant skills that are not already mentioned in your education or work experience sections. These can include technical skills, such as software or languages, or soft skills, such as communication or teamwork. Provide examples of how you have used these skills in your previous roles or projects.
- Other sections: Depending on the type of job you are applying for, you may also include other sections that showcase your additional qualifications or interests, such as awards, publications, volunteer work, hobbies or references.
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Tips for applying for a job by email
When applying for a job by email, here are some tips to follow:
- Use a professional email address: Avoid using personal or informal email addresses that may appear unprofessional or inappropriate. Use an email address that consists of your name or initials, such as john.smith@email.com or j.smith@email.com.
- Write a clear and concise subject line: The subject line is the first thing that the employer will see when they receive your email. It should capture their attention and indicate what the email is about. Use keywords from the job description or title, such as “Application for Marketing Manager Position” or “Marketing Manager – John Smith”.
- Attach your documents in PDF format: PDF files are preferred over other formats because they preserve the formatting and layout of your documents across different devices and platforms. They also prevent unauthorized editing or copying of your content. Make sure to name your files clearly and professionally, such as “John Smith – Cover Letter.pdf” or “John Smith – CV.pdf”. For efficient submissions, attach your documents in PDF format. Simplify the process with tools that allow you to merge PDF seamlessly.
- Write a brief and polite email message: The email message is the body of your email that accompanies your attachments. It should be brief and polite, introducing yourself, stating the position you are applying for, summarizing your main qualifications and requesting an interview. You can also refer to your attached documents for more details and thank the reader for their time and attention.
- Proofread and send your email: Before sending your email, proofread your documents and message for any spelling, grammar or punctuation errors. Use a professional tone and language throughout your email. Avoid using slang, abbreviations or emojis. Send your email to the correct recipient and address them by their name, if possible. You can also copy yourself on the email to keep a record of your application.
Example of an email application
Subject: Application for Marketing Manager Position – John Smith
Dear Ms. Jones,
I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Manager position at ABC Company, which I saw advertised on LinkedIn. I have attached my cover letter and CV for your review.
I have over five years of experience in marketing, with a focus on digital marketing, social media and content creation. I have successfully managed several marketing campaigns and projects for various clients, increasing their brand awareness, online presence and sales. I have also developed and implemented marketing strategies, plans and budgets, as well as supervised and trained a team of marketing assistants.
I am confident that I have the skills, experience and creativity to contribute to the growth and success of ABC Company. I am eager to learn more about your company’s vision, goals and challenges, and how I can add value to your marketing department.
I would love to discuss this opportunity with you in more detail. Please let me know if you are available for an interview at your convenience. You can reach me at 123-456-7890 or john.smith@email.com.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
John Smith
Also Read: Before you send your CV for a job application, read this