Most applications now go by email, and recruiters decide in seconds whether to open the resume. Fill in a few details to get a short, clear email with a subject line they can scan.
Your email
Subject:Application for [Job you are applying for] — [Your name]
Dear [Recruiter's name],
I would like to apply for the [Job you are applying for] position at [Company name], which I saw advertised on [Where you saw the job]. My resume is attached for your review.
I recently completed my [Your degree or course] at [College or university]. During my studies I worked with [Your key skills], and I am keen to put these skills to use in a full-time role. I learn quickly, I work well in a team, and I am ready to take on responsibility.
I would be grateful for the chance to discuss the role in an interview. Please let me know if you need any other information or documents.
Thank you for your time.
Best regards,
[Your name]
[Phone number]
[Portfolio or profile link]
Words in [brackets] are what you replace. The generator above fills them in for you.
Fresher
Subject: Application for [Job you are applying for] — [Your name]
Dear [Recruiter's name],
I would like to apply for the [Job you are applying for] position at [Company name], which I saw advertised on [Where you saw the job]. My resume is attached for your review.
I recently completed my [Your degree or course] at [College or university]. During my studies I worked with [Your key skills], and I am keen to put these skills to use in a full-time role. I learn quickly, I work well in a team, and I am ready to take on responsibility.
I would be grateful for the chance to discuss the role in an interview. Please let me know if you need any other information or documents.
Thank you for your time.
Best regards,
[Your name]
[Phone number]
[Portfolio or profile link]
Experienced
Subject: Application for [Job you are applying for] — [Your name], [Total work experience] of experience
Dear [Recruiter's name],
I would like to apply for the [Job you are applying for] position at [Company name], which I saw advertised on [Where you saw the job]. My resume is attached for your review.
I have [Total work experience] of work experience, most recently as [Current or last job title]. My key skills include [Your key skills], and I believe they are a good fit for this role. My notice period is [Notice period].
I would welcome the chance to discuss how I can contribute to your team. Please let me know a convenient time for a call or an interview.
Thank you for your time.
Best regards,
[Your name]
[Phone number]
[Portfolio or profile link]
Referred by an employee
Subject: Application for [Job you are applying for] — [Your name] (referred by [Who referred you])
Dear [Recruiter's name],
[Who referred you] ([Their team or job title]) has referred me for the [Job you are applying for] position at [Company name], and I would like to formally apply. My resume is attached for your review.
I have [Total work experience] of work experience, most recently as [Current or last job title], and my key skills include [Your key skills]. From what [Who referred you] has told me about the role and the team, I believe my experience is a good match. My notice period is [Notice period].
I would welcome the chance to discuss the role with you. Please let me know a convenient time for a call or an interview.
Thank you for your time.
Best regards,
[Your name]
[Phone number]
[Portfolio or profile link]
Tips
Put the job title and your name in the subject line, plus the job reference code if the advert gives one. Recruiters search their inbox by these.
Attach your resume as a PDF named after you, such as "Firstname-Lastname-Resume.pdf", not "resume final (2).pdf".
Check that the resume is actually attached before you press send. It is the most common mistake in application emails.
Send it from a professional email address that includes your name.
Keep the body short. Three short paragraphs are enough; the resume carries the detail.
If you are sending several applications, check the company name and job title in each email. A wrong name usually means the email is ignored.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should the subject line of a job application email be?
The job title and your name, for example "Application for Accounts Assistant — your name". Add the job reference code if the advert has one, and follow any subject format the advert asks for.
Should I write the cover letter in the email or attach it?
For most jobs a short email like this one is enough, with your resume attached. If the advert asks for a cover letter, attach it as a PDF or paste it below this email.
How do I mention a referral in an application email?
Name the person who referred you in the subject line and the first sentence. Ask them first whether they have also submitted the referral through the company's own system, if it has one.
How long should I wait before following up?
About a week, unless the advert gives a timeline. One short, polite follow-up is fine; more than that rarely helps.