Categories: Job Search

Email Cover Letters

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Updated November 07, 2015.

An email cover letter is a document sent with your resume to provide additional information on your expertise. It is written to provide information on why you are qualified for the job you are applying for and to explain the reasons for your interest in the company.

Tips for Sending 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.

How to Email Your Resume and Cover Letter

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

Some 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.

How to Address an Email Cover Letter

Here’s how to address a cover letter sent in an email message including what to use when you have a contact person and how to address it if you don’t.

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.

How To Send an Email Cover Letter

The most important part of sending an email cover letter is to follow the employer’s instructions. If the job posting says to include your cover letter and resume as an attachment, attach Microsoft Word or Adobe PDF files to your email message. Here’s a step-by-step guide to sending your resume and cover letter as an attachment.

Sample Email Cover Letters

Email Cover Letter Template

Template to use when creating an email cover letter.

Sample Email Cover Letter Message

Sample cover letter email message to use to apply for a job.

Sample Email Cover Letter With Resume Included

Sample email cover letter with resume included in the body of the email message.

Sample Email Cover Letter With Attached Resume

Sample email cover letter to use when you are sending your resume as an attachment.

Formatted Email Cover Example

Full size formatted email cover letter message example.

Email Inquiry Letter