How to email your CV to an employer, with a sample email
Subject lines, what to write in the body, how to attach your CV, and a sample email you can adapt when applying by email.
Use a professional email address
Send from an address made from your name, such as firstname.lastname@gmail.com. Avoid nicknames and random numbers.
Write a clear subject line
Make it easy to find and filter, for example: Application for Graduate Trainee, Ayesha Raza. If the advert gives a reference number, include it.
Keep the body short
Three short paragraphs are enough: the role you are applying for, one or two lines on why you fit, and a polite close with your phone number. Attach a cover letter or paste it into the body, as the advert asks.
A sample email
Subject: Application for Customer Services Officer, Bilal Ahmed
Dear Hiring Manager,
I would like to apply for the Customer Services Officer role advertised on your website. I have a BBA in Finance and two years of call centre experience, handling around 70 customer calls a day.
My CV is attached. I would welcome the chance to discuss how I can help your team.
Kind regards,
Bilal Ahmed, 0300 0000000
Attach it properly
- Attach a PDF unless they ask for Word.
- Name the file with your name and the role, such as Bilal-Ahmed-Customer-Services.pdf.
- Check that the attachment opens before you press send.
- Do not send a photo of a printed CV.
Before you press send
Check the recipient's address, the company name and the job title. Send a test to yourself first. If you have not heard back after a week, one short, polite follow-up is fine.