The Difference Between a Cover Letter and the Email You Send With Your Application

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When it comes to making a job change, getting it right truly matters. You need to get the keywords right , the messaging right , the formatting right . You’ve got to find the right people to endear yourself to, and the right words for your cover letter and follow-up correspondence.

And, for the love of it all, you’ve got to nail the approach.

But, my oh my, there are so many considerations—so many things we all second guess ourselves on when applying for a job.

Should you make the cover letter the body of the email, or attach it separately? (Or both?) Do you address the person by first name, or go with Mr. / Ms. So-and-So? (And, does same rule apply for both?) How casual or formal do you need to be? Is there a right or wrong format for cover letters and emails? Does the cover letter need to be a page or less? How long should the intro email be?

Holy Hannah—it’s enough to make the coolest cucumbers among us start to feel like crazy people. And that’s even before you’ve made an introduction.

Deep breaths, everyone. Deep breaths. Let’s break this cover letter stuff down into manageable chunks. Here’s what you need to know:

Should the Cover Letter Be an Attachment or Just the Body of Email?

The short answer is: either. Not both, either.

If you ask 10 recruiters of hiring managers which they prefer, you’ll probably get five who say attachment and five who say email. But here’s the good news: Nearly all will report that it’s not going to make or break you either way. So, don’t let this topic unravel you.

I happen to be a proponent of “cover letter as body of the email,” and here’s why: It gives you the opportunity to make a strong, memorable first impression the millisecond that reviewer’s eyes open their inbox. You can draw someone in with an incredible opening line, and then showcase the ways in which you could contribute to the team.

If, instead, you decide to go with cover letter as attachment, you should be brief and point the reader to the attachments.

I’ve learned you are seeking a senior project manager with e-commerce experience and knowledge of Jira. That’s me. My attached resume and cover letter outline my qualifications for the role. Thank you very much for your consideration. I hope to hear from you soon!

Keep it brief if you go this route. Those on the receiving end won’t appreciate having to plow through a super long email and all your attachments.

Lastly, don’t even think about replicating the cover letter in both the email and the attachment. That’s just ridiculous (and, makes you look totally indecisive).

Now that we got that figured out, let’s answer the other questions that are probably eating at you:

Do I Use a First Name Salutation—or a More Formal One?

This is best answered with, “It depends”—for both the cover letter and the accompanying email. (I know, just doing my part to make things simple here.)

In all seriousness, it’s best to evaluate the tone and style of the organization you’re attempting to join, and then guess which salutation would be most would the appropriate and appreciated. You can do this pretty easily by reviewing the company’s website and social media presence.

Remember, you’re going to be hired for that next role if (and only if) you’re a “yes” to these three questions

  • Do we think she can do this job?
  • Do we like her?
  • Do we think she’ll fit in around here?

That said, if you can introduce yourself in a way that implies right out of the gates that you’re a triple yes, you’re in business.

Is a Conversational Style Allowed?

In general, I think that job seekers get a bit too revved up about “proper” and end up losing sight of the fact that there’s an actual person at the receiving end of this (assuming you’re emailing your application directly).

Guess what? People like engaging, conversational reading. They notice when an applicant seems genuine, personable, and interesting. They appreciate when plowing through their pile of candidates doesn’t feel like total drudgery.

That being the case, unless you’re applying for a role within an extremely conservative or structured industry or organization, heck yes, a conversational style is allowed. Certainly, this is not your time to bust out a bunch of slang or (gasp) use language that could offend, but it’s a-ok to make your cover letter or intro email read like you’re a real person.

Just be sure and make it clear—in both cases—why you want to work for that company and what, specifically, you can walk through their doors and deliver.

Is the One Page Rule for Cover Letters Still True? What About in an Email?

Hard and fast “rules” make me crazy in general, so I’m not going to announce the exact length that your cover letter or your intro email need to be. I will simply suggest that you get in there, quickly endear yourself to the recipient, and then spell out, specifically, how and why you make perfect sense for the role you’re pursuing. And then wrap it up.

If you can pull it off with a one-page cover letter, absolutely. If you need a page and a half? So long as you’re peeling out any and all unnecessary blabber, knock yourself out. (And this article tells you how to cut it down to make it as effective as possible.)

For the email, again, get to the point and don’t be redundant if you’re also attaching a cover letter.

You can get these things right, for real. Nail the big stuff, sweat the details that truly matter, and get right to the business of making your grand entrance, well, one that’s grand.

is cover letter an email attachment

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Tips for Sending Email Cover Letters With Samples

How to Send an Email Cover Letter and Resume

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  • Send a Cover Letter Attachment
  • Send an Email Cover Letter
  • Contact Person, Subject, and Signature
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What should you include in an email to apply for a job, and how should you send it? 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.

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.

The job posting may specify the type of file you need to send, and how you should send it. If not, you can follow the instructions below to easily get your documents to the hiring manager.

It's also important 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. Here are some tips for sending email cover letters.

Sending Email Cover Letters and Resumes as Attachments

  • If the job posting says to include your cover letter and resume as an attachment, you can easily attach PDF files to your email message. 
  • If your cover letter and resume are Word documents, click “File, Save As, PDF (.pdf)” to save your documents as PDF files.
  • For Google Docs files, click “File, Download, PDF (.pdf)” document. 
  • PDFs are more professional, they retain the format, and they cannot be edited by someone else after you’ve shared them. 
  • Save the files with your name, so they don't get mixed up with other applicants' materials, e.g., yournamecover.pdf.

Need more help? Here's a step-by-step guide to sending your resume and cover letter as an attachment .

Sending Email Cover Letters Without Attachments

  • Some employers do not accept attachments. In these cases, paste your cover letter into your email message.
  • Use a simple font and remove any fancy formatting. 
  • The best way to do this is to copy the content from your original resume and cover letter, and then “Paste Special, Unformatted Text” into the email message.
  • You can “Paste Special” by left-clicking inside the body of the email and selecting "Paste Special" from the dropdown menu.
  • You don’t know what email provider the employer is using, so simple is best. The employer may not see a  formatted message  the same way you do. So if it’s plain text, you can be sure it will render correctly.

Contact Person, Subject Line, and Signature

  • 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 details of 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, so that the employer is clear as to what job you are applying for. For example, Subject: Jane Doe, Social Media Manager Position.
  • Include Your Signature: Include an email signature with your contact information, comprising name, address, email address, and telephone number, so it's easy for the hiring manager to get in touch with you.

Double-Check Your Letter for Spelling and Grammar

Make sure you spellcheck and check your grammar and capitalization. They are just as important in an email cover letter as in paper cover letters.

Send the message to yourself first to test that the formatting and attachments work. If everything looks good, resend to the employer.

Here's an example of an email cover letter. Also see below for more samples.

Sample Email Cover Letter

Subject: Administrative Assistant/Receptionist Job – Roger Smith

Dear Ms. Cole,

I was excited to see your listing for the position of administrative assistant/receptionist at ABC Market Corp. I believe that my five years' experience in office administration and my passion for your products make me an ideal candidate for this role.

You specify that you’re looking for an administrative assistant with experience scheduling appointments, maintaining records, ordering supplies, and greeting customers. I’m currently employed as an administrative assistant at XYZ company, where I have spent the past five years honing these skills.

I’m adept at using all the usual administrative and collaboration software packages, from Microsoft Office and SharePoint to Google Docs and Drive. I’m a fast learner, and flexible, while always maintaining the good cheer that you’d want from the first person visitors see when they interact with the company.

I have attached my resume and will call within the next week to see if we might arrange a time to speak.

Thank you so much for your time and consideration.

Roger Smith Phone Email LinkedIn Profile URL (optional)

More Sample Email Cover Letters

Review more sample email cover letters and templates for a variety of role types.

  • 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 Attached Resume : Sample email cover letter to use when you are sending your resume as an attachment.
  • Email Cover Letter - Part-Time Job : Email cover letter sample for applying for a part-time job.
  • Email Cover Letter - Summer Job : Email cover letter sample for applying for a summer job.
  • Professional Email Message : Sample professional email to use for job search or for asking for professional assistance.

Should I Attach A Cover Letter Or Write It In The Email

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It's best to include a cover letter as a separate attachment in PDF format and also write a brief introduction in the body of the email highlighting your interest in the position and the attached cover letter. This way, the hiring manager can easily see both your email and cover letter in one place and it can also help to ensure that your formatting remains intact.

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is cover letter an email attachment

Should your cover letter be in the body of your email or as a separate attachment?

When applying to a job via email, where should your cover letter go — in the body of your email or as a separate attachment? 

Here’s your answer… 

Since your cover letter should contain 2-4 brief paragraphs that highlight a relevant experience or something about you that helps you stand out for the job, I always recommend attaching your cover letter as a separate PDF (separate from your resume).  This allows the reader to open it up separately and focus on it as well as to easily save it in the same directory where they save your resume, since saving an email can be more difficult. 

Most recipients of resumes try to get through their emails as quickly as possible, so if you have a long cover letter and it lives in the body of your email, the reader might barely skim it or not read it at all since long emails require a lot of effort and time to read.  They’re trying to process a lot of emails quickly, bucket the candidates into yes, no and maybe piles, and then circle back later to review the info in more detail.  People generally don’t like to read long emails.  

However, if your cover letter is brief and succinct, you could consider also copying/pasting it into the body of the email. It just needs to be very brief and succinct (one-third of a page) if you’re going to take this approach.

Most cover letters aren’t brief and succinct, so if your cover letter is long, avoid pasting your cover letter in the body of your email.  In this situation, the body of your email should contain a nice statement about your interest level for the role and that you attached your cover letter which highlights a couple of examples of why you’re qualified for the role. You should state that your cover letter highlights something unique about you so you entice them to open it and read it. 

So, in effect, the body of your email is a very abbreviated version of your cover letter.  It’s a teaser for what’s inside.

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  • Career Advice
  • What to Say When Emailing a...

What to Say When Emailing a Resume (with Examples)

10 min read · Updated on June 12, 2024

Jen David

Introduce yourself professionally when you email your resume

You've written the perfect resume and tailored it to the role you're aspiring to. What should you do next? A few years back, you'd have printed it off on some quality paper, addressed an envelope in your best handwriting, posted it off, and settled in to wait for a response. These days, though, it's more common to email your resume. It's faster, it's more professional, and it's easier to share a file than a printout.

But if you're going to email your resume, what should you say? Should you attach a cover letter? How much detail should you include? 

So many questions! 

But fear not, TopResume is here to help you decide what to say when emailing a resume, and we have answers to all these questions and more. Settle in as we guide you through it.

Should I email my resume?

Yes! It's absolutely fine to email your resume when you apply for a job. In fact, it's usually preferred to printed correspondence these days. Of course, the most important point is that you should follow the instructions on the job posting. If it requests a printed resume or a resume uploaded via an online portal, you should definitely apply in line with those instructions. However, if there are no specific instructions, an email application is advisable. Just make sure you're addressing it to the right person!

General rules for emailing your resume

Before we get into the specifics, let's refresh on some general guidelines for emailing your resume to a company. After all, first impressions count, so using proper email etiquette is important.

Use a professional email address. “ HotLips69@...” may have seemed cool and funny when you set up the account, but does it really convey that you're a credible professional? If necessary, set up a new email account to use for job applications – and remember to check it regularly for responses!

Add a clear subject line. Make the point of your email clear with a logical  subject line – you could include the job title of the vacancy you're applying for, for example, or refer to the fact that the email is a job application or resume.

Choose a professional greeting. Think “Dear [name],” or even just “[name],” rather than “Hiya” or “Greetings.” While email is less formal than a letter, you still need to keep the tone professional.

Be concise. Short,  snappy paragraphs are easier to read on a screen, and no one wants to trudge through pages of waffle to find the information they need. Respect the reader's time by keeping it simple.

Add a formal sign-off. A version of “thank you” and your name is sufficient – you may also want to add your professional title, a contact number, and a link to your portfolio if you have one.

Don't forget the attachments! Make sure that you've actually attached your resume (and your cover letter, if required). Ensure they have sensible file names, too: “Jay Miller – Resume” or “J Miller – Sales Executive Resume” is more professional and easier to retrieve than something like “JM 010224 v3” or simply “Resume.” Also, double-check the file type that you're sending – check out our article  Word vs PDF  if you're not sure.

What to say when emailing your resume – the detail

So now we've reviewed the basics of email etiquette, let's get down to business. You need to know what to say when emailing a resume. Well, the exact wording will vary depending on the situation, the role, and your personality, but you'll certainly need to include the following:

Why you're emailing

Your reader may have a ton of open vacancies and is likely to receive many resumes for each one. Make their life easier by clearly stating the role you're interested in applying for. If you have a reference number for the vacancy, you can include that too.

Your elevator pitch

Briefly explain who you are , what you do, and why you're the right person for the open role. This doesn't need to take up a lot of space or be very detailed – the key thing here is to be convincing enough for them to want to open your resume document to find out more. Include whatever information is most pertinent to the role – that could be your academic qualifications, your industry experience, awards and accolades, or particular skills. Refer to the job posting to find out what the company wants to see in a successful candidate and ensure the requirements are reflected in your email.

A call to action

Encourage the reader to open your resume, reach out with further questions, or schedule an interview. This one little line can show your enthusiasm for the role, emphasize your professionalism, and prompt your reader to take the next step in progressing your application.

What to say when emailing a resume – sample messages

Do you need a bit more inspiration to craft your message? Take a look at these sample emails and use them as a frame for your own resume email. Remember, the job advert is your cheat sheet when it comes to deciding what details to prioritize here.

What to say when cold emailing a resume

To: Katie French

From: Matthew Cole

Subject: Sales resume

I've long admired XYZ Inc. as a leading supplier of home tech solutions and have heard many positive reviews about your company as an employer. To that end, I am attaching my resume in the event that a sales vacancy may soon arise.

As you can see, I have enjoyed a successful 10-year career in technology sales and am a committed user and advocate of your products. This year, I am on track to exceed my sales target by 46%. I would bring an extensive network of industry contacts and a proven ability to motivate sales teams to surpass expectations.

If there are no suitable vacancies at the moment, please feel free to keep my resume on file for future reference. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Matthew Cole

Sales Manager, Acme Products

What to say when emailing a resume in response to a job posting

Subject: Sales Executive vacancy (Ref: ABC123)

In response to your advertisement for a Sales Executive, I am attaching my resume. As you can see, I combine eight years of sales experience with a degree in Marketing and three awards for excellence in sales roles. 

The advertised role is particularly interesting to me, as it will allow me to leverage my expertise in technical sales, provide the opportunity for international growth, and establish trusted relationships with your clients to open new avenues for revenue and increased sales.

Please don't hesitate to reach out to me if you have any questions; I look forward to discussing my suitability further with you at an interview.Thank you for your consideration,

Sales Executive, Acme Products

What to say when emailing a resume to a recruiter

Subject: Healthcare Roles

Dear Katie,

I saw on JobBoard.com that you are recruiting for several healthcare roles, and would like to submit my resume for your consideration. I combine 10 years' experience as a Healthcare Assistant with numerous industry certifications and consistently receive positive patient feedback.

I look forward to hearing from you,

What to say when emailing a resume to follow up on a conversation

Subject: Finance Manager follow-up

Following our phone discussion earlier today, I would like to reiterate my interest in the Finance Manager position and attach my resume for your consideration.

As you can see, I am currently fulfilling the Finance Manager role at XYZ Company and am looking forward to developing my career within a global organization. I have a master's degree in Business Administration, as well as extensive experience in managing the finance function within a security business. I look forward to bringing my leadership skills to your team of finance experts.

Please reach out to me at 555-555-5555 when you have had a chance to review my attached resume.Regards,

Finance Manager, XYZ Company

What to say when emailing a resume following a referral

Subject: Events Manager vacancy

Dear Ms French,

Please find attached my resume. I have been referred to the Events Manager position by one of your colleagues, John Day, who I previously worked with at ABC Inc. Having delivered many successful events with John as my manager, I'm flattered that he has now asked me to apply for your open role. 

I've recently delivered a conference for 800 international delegates and a team building event for 5 national teams, both of which were very well received and were completed within challenging budgets. I am confident that I can bring a similar level of client satisfaction to DEF Inc. and look forward to discussing the position further with you.

Please don't hesitate to get in touch to schedule an interview at your convenience,

555-555-5555

Should you attach a cover letter when emailing a resume?

Now we've covered what to say when emailing a resume, it's time to consider the cover letter. As you can see, we recommend that the body of the email be kept short and concise. If you feel the need to include more detail, you can consider attaching a cover letter as well as a resume. There's no obligation to do this unless a letter is specifically requested as part of the application instructions, but it does give you the opportunity to expand on key points of interest.

Top tip: You may like to read our article on  how to write a cover letter to make sure you get this part of your application bang on!

How long does it take to hear back after emailing a resume?

Don't panic if you don't hear back immediately! While email is a speedy way to apply, recruiters and hiring managers receive many resumes for every open role and need time to sift through them, create shortlists, and schedule interviews. That said, certain recruiters have a reputation for ghosting unsuitable candidates, or your application may simply have been overlooked, so there's no harm in following up after a week or two if you haven't heard anything.  

What to write in a follow-up email

Subject: Communications Assistant vacancy (ref: 12345)

I emailed my resume to you last week in response to your advertisement for a Communications Assistant. I just wanted to check that you'd received it, and to reiterate that I remain very interested in the role.

If you didn't receive the resume or have further questions regarding my application, please do get in touch with me either via email or by phone at 555-555-5555.

Email with confidence

Now you know what to say when emailing your resume in any situation, you're ready to apply for your dream job! Use this checklist to make sure you've nailed it before you hit the send button:

Correct email address and personalized greeting

Appropriate subject line

Clarification of the role you're applying for

Elevator pitch

Call to action

Professional sign-off

Attachments attached

Final proofread

If you feel that your resume isn't quite ready to be unleashed upon the world, why not get an expert opinion? Our free resume review will explain which areas need further work before you submit your application.

Recommended reading:

How to Write the Perfect Goodbye Email to Co-Workers & Clients

The Networking Email That Works Every Time

How To Use AI To Prepare For A Job Interview

Related Articles:

Guide to Writing a Great Resume with No Work Experience

How To Write a Sick Leave Letter (with Template and Example)

Resume Mistakes: Red Flags Employers Are Looking For

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WTO / Letters and Emails / Cover Letters / 32 Email Cover Letter Samples | How to Write (Examples)

32 Email Cover Letter Samples | How to Write (Examples)

An Email Cover Letter is a formal document sent by an applicant to the hiring manager expressing their interest in a job position.

It supports the resume and gives more details about you as an applicant. It can be sent either as an attachment or as part of the main body.

The purpose of the cover letter is to support a resume. It elaborates on personal attributes and skills related to the position you are applying for to increase your chances of getting a job. It achieves its purpose by mentioning previous job experiences associated with the position you are applying for. Thus, the cover letter helps in supporting your resume, which can be less effective when submitted alone.

Free Templates

Whether you’re applying for a job or reaching out to a potential client, the templates provided below offer a convenient and professional way to craft your cover letter. By using these templates, you can save time and ensure that your cover letter is well-structured and visually appealing. With customizable sections for your contact information, introduction, skills, and closing, the templates make it easy for you to create a compelling cover letter that leaves a lasting impression.

Editable Sample Email Cover Letter 01 for Word File

How to Write and Send the Cover Letter

When sending it, you should consider specific aspects, such as sending it as an attachment, the position you are applying for, and what to include in the main body.

Some of these aspects, which should be considered, are discussed below:

Send your cover letter as an attachment

Some organizations may request that the cover letter be sent as an attachment. Hence, ensure that you save the document as a PDF (portable document file) file that cannot be edited by someone else after you submit it. Saving the document under your name helps avoid confusion for the hiring manager and makes your application stand out.

If an employer does not accept the attachments, you should then copy your cover letter and paste it as the body. Ensure that you have corrected the formatting, as copy-pasting may affect the original format of the letter. In this case, once the hiring manager opens your email, they will directly see your cover letter.

Add an informative subject line

A subject line states the purpose, and it should be short, precise, and grammatically correct to establish professionalism. In addition, it helps the hiring manager understand its purpose and helps your application stand out among other applicants. The length of the subject line should be between 46 and 70 characters. Ensure that you mention the position you are applying for and your name in the subject line. This information helps the hiring manager know the position you are applying for and differentiate different cover letters.

On the email subject lines, write “Customer Service Representative- Mike Bond.”

Start with a greeting

Start the cover letter with a greeting and keep it professional, not friendly. Mentioning the hiring manager’s name creates a natural bond and interest in the hiring manager. It also increases your chances of getting hired.  Before sending the application, research the company’s website to identify the hiring manager’s name. If the name is not available on the website, you can contact the organization directly and request the name from their customer service agent. This shows that you have taken an interest in the opportunity, and you have learned how the organization and its employees operate. If you do not know the hiring manager’s name, a general phrase can be used.

“Dear sir/madam.”

Write a simple message in the body

In the body, mention the position you are applying for and state the qualities you possess that are relevant to the position. In this section, you can also mention previous work experiences that are helpful or relate to the open position. These details help increase the chances of you getting hired as some of the qualities might be what the hiring manager is looking for. Additionally, mention how you can use your skills to improve the performance or output of the organization. 

Include examples

Give examples of previous accomplishments in the cover letter, which will spike interest in the hiring manager and ensure they relate to the position you are applying for. In addition, ensure you have researched the organization’s operations so that the examples you provide positively impact the business. 

Attach URLs

URLs are links that can be attached to them to help you provide more details about your capabilities by giving the hiring manager a link to access some samples of your work. This is applicable in several fields, such as graphic design , freelance writing or art.

Close with a thank you

At the closing, remember to thank the hiring manager again for the opportunity they gave you.

“I thank you for the opportunity and am looking forward to your response.”

Sign off with your signature

Signing off on the cover letter shows professionalism. Use courteous words such as sincerely, best regards, or thank you. In addition, a digital signature can be added along with an email and personal telephone number. These details ease communication in the case the hiring manager wants to give feedback or request additional details.

Attach your resume

Attach your resume, as it helps the hiring manager know you and your level of education, work experience, and personal interests. Ensure that your resume is written in a professional way to capture the attention of the hiring manager.

Cover Letter Samples

Following are some samples given for your better understanding:

Sample Cover Letter for a Graphic Designer Position

Subject: Application for Graphic Designer Position – Jane Doe

Dear Mr. David Smith,

I am writing to express my interest in the Graphic Designer position listed on BrightWeb Solutions’ website. With a Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design from the Art Institute of Chicago and over five years of professional experience, I am eager to bring my creativity and expertise to your team.

At my current role at CreativeEdge Marketing, I successfully led the redesign of the company website and managed various digital design projects, resulting in a 30% increase in online engagement. My proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, coupled with my passion for innovative and responsive design, aligns well with the requirements of your position.

I am particularly excited about the opportunity at BrightWeb Solutions because of your commitment to cutting-edge digital solutions. Your recent overhaul of the E-commerce platform for Luxe Fashion was both impressive and inspiring, and I am keen to contribute to similar groundbreaking projects.

Attached is my resume and portfolio for your review. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my potential contribution to your esteemed design team and am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

Best regards,

[email protected]

(555) 123-4567

Sample Cover Letter for a Project Manager Position

S ubject: Project Manager Position Application – John Smith

Dear Ms. Emily Johnson,

I am reaching out to apply for the Project Manager position at Global Tech Innovations, as recently advertised on LinkedIn. My extensive experience in project management within the technology sector, coupled with a strong understanding of agile methodologies, positions me as an ideal candidate for this role.

In my current role at TechSolutions Inc., I spearheaded the ‘Smart Home Integration’ project, leading a team of 15. The project not only finished 20% ahead of schedule but also 15% under budget, demonstrating my ability to efficiently manage resources and drive results. My approach is results-oriented and efficiency-driven, perfectly aligning with the dynamic and innovative ethos of Global Tech Innovations.

I am particularly impressed by Global Tech’s dedication to smart technology solutions, especially your recent breakthrough in AI-powered automation systems. I am excited about the prospect of leveraging my experience in project management and strategic planning to contribute to such innovative endeavors.

Enclosed is my resume for your review. I am keen to discuss how my background and skills would be beneficial to Global Tech Innovations. Please feel free to contact me to arrange an interview at your convenience.

Thank you for considering my application.

(555) 987-6543

Key Takeaways

The two sample cover letters exhibit several key elements that make them effective and useful for job applicants writing similar letters.

  • Both letters start with a clear subject line that specifies the position being applied for, immediately clarifying the purpose of the email. The salutation is formal and addresses the hiring manager by name, which adds a personal touch.
  • Each letter highlights the applicant’s relevant educational background and work experience. 
  • Both applicants detail specific achievements in their current roles, quantifying their success. They also mention specific skills pertinent to the job (e.g., proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite for the graphic designer, experience in leading a team for the project manager).
  • Each letter shows that the applicant has researched the company and understands its objectives.
  • Both letters end with a polite thank you, an invitation for further discussion or interview, and provide contact details, making it easy for the employer to follow up.
  • The tone is professional and enthusiastic, demonstrating the applicant’s eagerness and fit for the role. The structure is well-organized, flowing logically from the introduction to the body section to the conclusion.

Email Cover Letter Examples

Free Email Cover Letter Template for Word File

Below is a cover letter template:

Subject Line: Application for (the position you are applying for)

Dear (name of the hiring manager),

Following your advertisement (mention where you saw the advertisement), I am writing to express my interest in the (position you are applying for) in your organization. I have attached my resume as requested in the application guidelines.

I have vast experience in (mention a similar position), and I will use my capabilities to ensure that I fulfill the organization’s goal. I am a fast learner, a participant in teamwork, a keen listener, and a problem solver, and I will ensure that I do my best to satisfy the customers’ needs.

I am looking forward to your response and learning more from the organization to drive us towards its success. Thank you.

Kind regards,

First Last Name

Tips for Writing the Cover Letter

When writing it, ensure that you follow a specified format, and the following tips should be put into prior consideration.

Use a professional address

Along with the subject line, your email address is the first thing the hiring manager will see. Therefore, you need to create a good impression by using a simple one. Use a professional email address, as it shows decency and also increases your chances of getting hired. A professional address should be short and can be generated from your name.

Save your file correctly

Save it correctly to avoid a change of format when the document is changed from a Word document to a PDF document. Saving also entails ensuring that the correct topic sentence is used, making it easier for the hiring manager to identify the file and the position you are applying for. Ensure that you save your file as .doc or .pdf to preserve the original outlook of the cover letter. Moreover, ensure that you save the file name as first name-last name-cover letter, {Smith-Simon-cover letter} to make it easy for the hiring manager to trace your cover letter after they download it from the email attachments.

Pick a strong subject link

Pick a strong subject line that should entail your first and last name and the title of the position you are applying for. These details make it easier for the hiring manager to identify the position you are applying for, making your email stand out.

Keep it short and straightforward

Ensure that it is short and straightforward, only keeping your focus on the main ideas. A short email saves time for the hiring manager and gives them the chance to read through the entire letter. This increases your chances of getting hired.

Do some research

Doing detailed research before sending the cover letter is crucial, as it helps you identify important aspects of the company. Ensure that you confirm the open position so that you can apply for the correct job offer . Research the name of the hiring manager or contact the office number available on their website to confirm the name so that you can mention the hiring manager’s name.  

Send yourself a test email

You can send yourself a test email of your application and the attachments to see how it will appear to the recipient. This is important as it helps you know if the formatting is correct and if all attachments open correctly. After the test, you can send the application to the hiring manager, as there will be a minimal chance of errors on the cover. 

Check job application guidelines

Before submitting it, check the application guidelines closely, as different organizations provide different application procedures. Verify if the company has specified if the cover email should be sent as an attachment or as part of the main body. Following the correct specifications increases your chances of being hired. 

Final Thoughts

A cover letter is an important document that is used to support a resume by giving additional details about you as an applicant. Therefore, it is essential to follow specific guidelines while sending the application and ensure that the cover letter has the correct format. The letter should be written in a formal tone. The applicant’s details, including their name and email address, should be included on the cover letter.

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Fort Drum receives a large portion of its drinking water from the city.

“The proposed water quality improvement project will enhance the resiliency of Fort Drum, fortify its water supply, and improve the quality of life for military families and the surrounding communities” the congresswomen said in their letter.

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Letters to the Editor | Letter: Music at swim lessons

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The adults watching their kids in the pool don’t need loud music. The kids in the pool don’t need it, as they are supposed to be listening to their teachers. The teachers don’t need it, as they are supposed to be teaching and they have to raise their voices for the kids to hear them.

Yes, they are playing Disney music — but, as I said, the kids aren’t paying any attention to the noise as they are focused on their teachers.

My questions are: “Why are the adults watching their kids forced to talk really loudly if they want to say anything to each other? Is there any reason at all for the annoyingly loud music?”

It would be so much nicer if we could actually hear what the teacher is saying to the kids and their responses rather than being forced to endure loud and unnecessary music.

— Michael Gullick, Chico

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IMAGES

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COMMENTS

  1. How To Send an Email Cover Letter (With Steps, Tips and Example)

    1. Follow company instructions. Email cover letters can generally be sent in one of two ways: as an email attachment or as the body of your email. Before sending your cover letter, check the company's job application guidelines. Some companies prefer attachments, while others prefer them to be in the body of your email message.

  2. should you attach your cover letter or put it in the body of the email

    But don't attach it and include it in the body of the email, because that's annoying; pick just one. If you attach it, then in the body of the email you'd just write something like, "I'd like to apply for the ___ position. Attached please find my cover letter and resume." (Don't write more than that, or now there are two separate ...

  3. Emailing a Cover Letter: How To Guide With Example

    Click on your cover letter to attach it to the email. Check that the file attaches correctly before sending. 6. Write a short email message. If you are sending your cover letter as an attachment in an email, include a brief email message to let the recipient know that the email contains your cover letter as an attachment.

  4. Cover Letter Versus Email: Which Is Better?

    Keep it brief if you go this route. Those on the receiving end won't appreciate having to plow through a super long email and all your attachments. Lastly, don't even think about replicating the cover letter in both the email and the attachment. That's just ridiculous (and, makes you look totally indecisive).

  5. How to Email a Resume and Cover Letter Attachment

    Once your email message is ready to send, you need to attach your resume and cover letter to your message: Click on Insert > Attach File. Your email client will display a list of files in the default file folder of your computer. If your resume and cover letter are stored in a different folder, click on the appropriate folder.

  6. Should I Attach a Cover Letter or Write It in the Email?

    You should attach a cover letter to your email unless otherwise specified by an employer. Most employers prefer an attachment because it makes your cover letter easier to save and organize, and is easier to read than scrolling through an email. However, read the job ad carefully and follow the instructions you're given. If the job ad ...

  7. How to Write an Email Cover Letter

    1. Use a professional email address. Providing the right email address is important when sending a cover letter, so use a clear, professional email address that combines your first and last name (such as [email protected]). You can also use other variations if you can't use your first and last name, such as:

  8. How to Send an Email Cover Letter (Samples & Tips)

    To write a perfect cover letter email for a job application, follow these steps: Use our email cover letter template. Apply a clear, strong subject line. Open with a proper greeting—address the hiring manager by their name. In the first sentence, explain why you're writing and what position you're targeting.

  9. Email Cover Letter: 5 Samples & Writing Guide + Expert Tips

    Add the job title to the subject line and first line of your email. Use the 3-paragraph cover letter format, but keep it short and snappy. Find resume keywords in the job ad. Include one big achievement relevant to the job. Expert Hint: Don't forget to attach your resume to the cover letter in your email!

  10. How To Write An Email Cover Letter: Samples + 5 Writing Tips

    Email cover letter format & writing tips. Now that you've seen what an email cover letter should look like, here are five tips on how to format and write an effective email cover letter: 1. Make it easy to read. The average recruiter spends very little time looking at an email.

  11. Tips for Sending Email Cover Letters With Samples

    Sending Email Cover Letters and Resumes as Attachments . If the job posting says to include your cover letter and resume as an attachment, you can easily attach PDF files to your email message. If your cover letter and resume are Word documents, click "File, Save As, PDF (.pdf)" to save your documents as PDF files.

  12. Should I Attach A Cover Letter Or Write It In The Email

    Max 2MB file size. It's best to include a cover letter as a separate attachment in PDF format and also write a brief introduction in the body of the email highlighting your interest in the position and the attached cover letter. This way, the hiring manager can easily see both your email and cover letter in one place and it can also help to ...

  13. Should your cover letter be in the body of your email or as a separate

    Here's your answer…. Since your cover letter should contain 2-4 brief paragraphs that highlight a relevant experience or something about you that helps you stand out for the job, I always recommend attaching your cover letter as a separate PDF (separate from your resume). This allows the reader to open it up separately and focus on it as ...

  14. How to send a cover letter by email (With guide and example)

    In a new email, type your own email address into the recipient field, add Test in the subject line and attach your documents. Send it and then open the attachments from your inbox. Double-check your spelling, grammar and formatting before sending your final cover letter email to the hiring manager.

  15. 11 Steps To Email a Cover Letter

    Furthermore, when sending a cover letter as an email, there's no need to include addresses. Lastly, proofread the email to ensure there are no spelling or formatting errors before sending it. 9. Add your email signature. Your email signature is the last part of your cover letter, and it's quite important.

  16. What to Say When Emailing a Resume (with Examples)

    Add a clear subject line. Make the point of your email clear with a logical subject line - you could include the job title of the vacancy you're applying for, for example, or refer to the fact that the email is a job application or resume. Choose a professional greeting. Think "Dear [name]," or even just " [name]," rather than "Hiya ...

  17. How to Write an Email Cover Letter (With Tips and Examples)

    Before you submit the final cover letter, you can send yourself a test email with the cover letter attachment or with the cover letter in the body text. This is a useful way to check for formatting and file errors. Download the attachment and make sure it's the correct file. Check for spelling and grammatical errors.

  18. How to Email a Resume and Cover Letter Attachment

    First, open your email account. Then click on Message at the top left of the screen or click on File, New, Message. You can either type your cover letter directly into the email message, copy and ...

  19. Email Cover Letter Example (With Steps and Helpful Tips)

    How to send an email cover letter. Follow these steps to guide you on how to send an email cover letter: 1. Comply with the employer's request. There are two basic methods for sending an email cover letter. You can send it as a separate attachment to the email or you can simply type it in the email body. Verify the employer's job application ...

  20. How To Format a Letter or Email With an Attachment

    Here are five steps to help you write an email with attachments: 1. Begin with a blank email. First, log in to your email account. Begin composing a blank message. 2. Follow simple formatting rules. Start the email with a greeting, such as "Dear Ms. Jones," followed by a comma.

  21. Email Cover Letter: Sample + Format That Works in 2024

    Write your cover letter in your email body and enclose only your CV. Right—. So you've seen a jaw-dropping job application email cover letter. Now, let's break down what makes this email format for cover letters so great. 1. Strong Subject Line: the Only Guarantee Your Email Cover Letter Gets Opened.

  22. 32 Email Cover Letter Samples

    An Email Cover Letter is a formal document sent by an applicant to the hiring manager expressing their interest in a job position. It supports the resume and gives more details about you as an applicant. It can be sent either as an attachment or as part of the main body. The purpose of the cover letter is to support a resume.

  23. When applying via email, should the cover letter be embedded ...

    Therefore just put it in the email and do not attach it. As a hiring manager, I would like to have as few steps as possible, and there's a chance I will not read the cover letter at all. I think adding a cover letter as an attachment is only going to add another hoop for me to jump through to see if you are worth interviewing.

  24. How To Write an Operations Coordinator Cover Letter

    Here is a cover letter template you can use to kickstart the creation of your own cover letter: [Your name] [City] [Your phone number] [Your email address] [Date] [Recipient's name] [Company's name] Dear [Recipient's name], I am very interested in the Operations Coordinator position at [Company's Name]. With my background in [relevant sector ...

  25. Tenney, Stefanik write letter to support Watertown's bid for ...

    The U.S. House representatives whose districts cover Fort Drum are throwing their support behind the city of Watertown's bid for a federal grant to help fund its water treatment plant ...

  26. Letter: Music at swim lessons

    Send letters via email without attachments to [email protected].