How to Write a Job Application Email

By Indeed Editorial Team

Updated 11 November 2022

Published 27 May 2021

The Indeed Editorial Team comprises a diverse and talented team of writers, researchers and subject matter experts equipped with Indeed's data and insights to deliver useful tips to help guide your career journey.

While some companies have an online system in place for job applications, others still rely on applications sent through email. In this article, we guide you through the process of crafting a formal job application email.

When should you email your job application?

Ideally, you should submit your job application via email if:

The job listing specifically requested that candidates submit their applications via email.
There is no online system in place for resume submission

What to include in your job application email

Below are some elements that should appear in your job application email:

The objective of the email
The position you wish to apply for
Your contact details and full name
Your qualifications, work experience and any other information relevant to the position you're applying for
Your cover letter and resume

Related: How to Write a Cover Letter

Steps to submitting a job application email

Below are some steps you should follow:

Use a formal email address

If you have multiple email addresses, pick the most professional-sounding one to send your job application email from. Ideally, your email address should contain your first and/or last names or your initials.

Compose a clear subject line

The subject line should clearly state the objective of the email and include the position you're applying for.

Name and attach all relevant documents

When preparing your application, be sure to include all relevant documents like your cover letter and resume. Your full name should also be in the title of every attached document (for example "Lisa Tan - Resume" or "Lisa Tan - Cover Letter"). Attach these to your email in PDF form.

Write your job application email

Compose your email with a professional tone and in the style of a standard formal email. Begin with a salutation, then continue with your name, the objective of the email, and the role you're applying for. The subsequent paragraphs should include your educational qualifications, work experience and any other information relevant to the job you are applying for. You should also let the recipient know if someone referred you to the organisation, or if you came across the job listing through another platform.

Finish with a closing paragraph that includes your contact details, and thank the recipient for their time.

Sign-off

Formal email signatures typically include your full name, phone number, and email address.

Proofread your application

Be sure to proofread your email before sending it off to ensure that there are no spelling and/or grammatical errors.

Insert the recipient's email address

To prevent any accidental mailing of an incomplete email, it is always best to insert the recipient's email address only after you have completed all of the above steps and ensured that your email is ready to be sent.