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Nov 9, 2022

How to write a professional job application email with 6 samples and templates

Your email can make or break your job application. Here we explain the process for writing an effective email for a job application.

Lawrie Jones

Table of contents

So, you’re looking for a job and you know that a critical part of your success will be your email application.

In this guide, we explain the process for writing an effective email for a job application. We don’t stop at the first application but provide examples of several follow-up emails for job applications after no response here .

Follow the advice, and you’ll stand the best chance of getting the job of your dreams (or something to fill the time until that comes along).

How to write an email for a job application

The average recruiter receives 250 applications for each post and spends no more than 7 seconds scanning your message (about the same time it takes to tie your shoes).

The key to success is standing out. That doesn’t mean trying to be witty or wacky, but being a pro is the same process you must use through all job application follow-up emails.

What you need to apply to a job via email

Let’s clarify what a job email is. It’s not a cover letter or a CV but a mechanism to deliver them.

Some people don’t bother to spend much time on an application email but get your application email wrong, and the recruiter may not even bother to read your resume or open your application letter.

Why? Because if they’re dealing with 250 responses, they’re actively looking for reasoning to exclude applications – so don’t let that be you!

Each recruiter has their own application process, but there are some pretty standard things that you’ll need to include with every application, including:

• Cover letter
• Work samples (optional, but a nice extra!)

Here's a brief explainer if you don’t know what these are.

1. Cover letter

Your cover letter is a formal part of the application process where you introduce yourself, describe your skills, why you want the job, and what value you can add for the business. 

We’re not going to walk you through how to write a cover letter. However, there are some amazing online resources , so start there. 

You can attach your cover letter as a Word document or PDF. It’s essential to use a file that can be downloaded, printed, and shared – so avoid using Google Docs or cloud software.

2. CV (resume)

Your CV is the story of your working life, a snapshot of your skills, and a chance to highlight your achievements. Again, we’re not going to explain how to create a compelling CV , but we recommend using a simple, easy-to-read, and understandable template.

Again, don’t try to be fancy with formats – create a document that can be downloaded, printed, and shared. 

3. Samples of work (optional)

As the experts say, “show, don’t tell.” You can use your application email to showcase your skills and previous results. You can attach a portfolio, photos, or videos or provide a link to your website or social media in your email.

Some tips from us are to introduce examples and explain the impact. Who cares if you designed a great-looking poster? But if that poster boosted sales by 50%, that’s a different matter.

The second piece of advice is only to include a few examples (3 is a great number). Too many appear desperate.

Thirdly, only share work that’s 100% yours. If you worked as part of a team or an organization, make your role clear. Never claim other people’s work as your own.

Finally, be prepared to answer questions on these examples at your interview – including what you did in the process.

Best job application email tips

We’re all about providing information, advice, and terrific tips to help you get ahead of the competition and secure that essential interview.

Here are 7 job application email tips. (Why 7? Because that’s the world’s favorite number , and we couldn’t think of 10.)

1. Send your application email and CV for review

Tip number 1 is the most critical. After proofreading at least twice (or eight times), send your job application email and CV to a friend, colleague, parent, or mentor – or all of them – and ask for feedback, comments, and suggestions.

Your email will give the first impression, so make sure it’s personal, professional, formal, friendly, and favorable.

2. Make a convincing pitch in the email body

Remember that hiring managers, executives, and founders are busy and will not often open or read your full CV. So you’ll need to convince them in the email body that it’s worth their time to read further.

Think of your email as an advert for you:

• A persuasive subject line gets the attention (and may result in opened email)
• A compelling email body makes the recipient want to learn more (and may result in opened CV)
• Convincing CV makes the recipient want to contact you (and may result in an interview)

The most important thing is to reflect the language in the job spec. The recruiter has been straightforward about what they want and who they’re looking for. Using their language can help to establish that the person to fit the slot is you!

3. Make it easy to contact you

Even though you might have all the necessary contact information in your CV, please include them in the email. This reduces the steps between clicks and contact.

Here are some of the things you should include in every job application email: Use this 

• phone number
• social media links (LinkedIn and Twitter)
• portfolio links (optional)

4. Use a professional email address

Sure, the email address you created when you were 12 or first started college was funny then but is it today? Unfortunately, the chances are it isn’t!

Make sure you have an appropriate email address for a job application. Creating a new email address doesn’t cost anything, and setting up alerts on your phone is simple, so why jeopardize your chances with [email protected] ?

(Don’t email this, we don’t know who owns it!)

5. Check the name of your resume file name

We’ve touched on the importance of using the correct formats for cover letters and CVs.

When you create your CV, give the file (Word document, PDF, or whatever) a professional name that can also be identified with you.

You never know where it might end up.

Here’s a formal naming convention: “Name - CV - Position,” for example:

• Arthur Shelby - CV - Binman at Shelby Company Ltd.

6. Use references if you can

Do you know someone who works or used to work at the company? Or do you know someone who knows someone who works or used to work at the company?

Warm connections are always better than cold emailing (even if it’s unfair). As the saying goes, your network is your net worth, so try to leverage it to your advantage.

7. Include social proof

Have you already done similar work for someone else? Show it!

Social proof is powerful and backs up the statements you may have made in your application email, cover letter, and resume.

Social proof also includes social channels. LinkedIn is used worldwide, so don’t be afraid to drop in a link to your profile. It also creates a connection, so even if you don’t get this job, you’ll be the first to know of the latest opportunities.

Job application email format

Job application emails aren’t the time to get creative or buck the trend. However, there’s an accepted format for all job application emails, which we break down below. 

1. Subject line for job application email

What’s a suitable email title for a job application? You could go crazy and say, “I’m perfect for this job!!!” but that would be silly. Instead, the subject line for your job application email should be simple to read and easy to understand.

The traditional (and still best) approach is to state your name and the job you’re applying for (or a combination of that). Here are a few examples:

Applying for a job probably is the best place to get creative, so stick to a simple subject line for your job application emails. 

2. Email greeting for job application

Your email greeting should be polite and professional. Examples of that include:

• Dear (an oldie, but a goodie!)

If you know the recruiter's name, then use it. People always love to receive emails addressed to them. One thing to avoid is the phrase “Dear Sir/Madam” or using formal titles such as Mr, Mrs, or Ms. We’ve got a whole world of possibilities, so it’s time we all moved on from traditional (old-fashioned) titles.

3. How to start a job application email

First up, state the purpose of your email. 

• I am applying for the post of (job name)

Doing this means the person understands what the message is about – which will save them time. Also, in many cases, the person receiving the email won’t be the recruiter, so they can file it away and share it with the person (or persons) who need to see it. 

After that, you’ll need to explain what you’ve included with the email (your resume, cover letter, and examples). It’s always worth providing at least a few positive sentences on the opportunity. Finally, you’ll need to include any requested information, such as salary expectations. 

4. How to end an email job application

There are conflicting opinions on how to end an email job application. We recommend asking for information on the next steps. Here’s how this can work:

• Please can you provide me with details on the next steps in the process?

This leaves the recipient in no doubt that you’re serious about your application. If they reply, you’ll be reassured that they’ve received your application. Finally, you’ll know the timescales for decision-making, which removes the need to send a follow-up. 

Always ask for the next steps in the process at the end of every email job application. 

5. Email signature for job application

Sign off with your full name, phone number, and social media links (LinkedIn and Twitter), and attach your CV. Provide all information the recipient will need to contact and connect with you. 

Job application email samples

We’ve talked a lot about the process; now, let’s put it into practice! These job application email samples cover 7 common situations you might experience when searching for a job. You’ll get a simple job application email sample, some application follow-up emails, and even how to withdraw an application if needed. 

Use these job application email examples to start your job search, but edit and update them to suit your specific circumstances.

1. Simple job application email sample

This simple job application email sample can be cut, pasted, edited, and amended for pretty much any opportunity. It’s not exciting or innovative, but it provides a structured way to communicate the critical points you need to. 

2. Email introduction for job application sample

The previous email sample covered how to apply for a job, this one is similar, but it’s about introducing yourself to the recruiter. This introduction approach is a great way to make a personal connection and can work well for several situations. 

3. Job application status email sample

We’re clear that you should always ask for details on the next steps in the recruitment process, but as we all know, real life doesn’t always follow rigid plans. This job application status email sample is a way to politely push the recruiter to let you know what’s happening in the recruitment process. 

4. Withdraw the job application email sample

Yes, there are some occasions when you might need to withdraw a job application, in most cases because you’ve got another job.

You don’t need to explain why you’re removing yourself from a recruitment process, but most people usually do (and we have in this withdraw job application email sample). 

5. How to email HR for a job application update

When emailing the recruiting managers, you’ll need to be formal as they decide your destiny. On the other hand, HR teams deal with large volumes of applications, so this short message is fine. Here’s how to email HR for a job application update. 

6. How to write an email to accept a job offer

Hooray, you’ve been offered a job; now it’s time to say yes. Here’s how to write an email to accept a job offer.

Job application email template

Flowrite's email template for job application.

There is no 100% right or wrong way to send a job application. But having an effective email template, using proper grammar, and email format will help, as you need to most likely send many, many emails to land your dream job.

This is where Flowrite comes in. Flowrite's AI-powered smart templates can help you craft better emails.

Our tool turns your words into ready-to-send emails, like this:

Final words on job application emails

In reality, you’ll need to send many job emails, follow-ups , and reminders to get a position.

It’s the way the world of recruitment works, and we know it can be frustrating.

But trust us, by investing some time crafting high-quality job application emails and persuasive follow-ups, you’ll stand the best chance of getting a perfect position.

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Job Application Email (Templates, Examples)

By Status.net Editorial Team on September 24, 2023 — 11 minutes to read

Your job application email is an opportunity to make a powerful first impression on prospective employers. The key is to strike a balance between professionalism and personality, demonstrating not only your qualifications but also your enthusiasm for the position. Throughout this article, real-world examples and templates will be provided to showcase best practices and inspire your own job application emails. Implementing these techniques will give you confidence in your job search, helping you present yourself as an outstanding candidate for the role you desire.

Related: Get More Interviews: Follow Up on Job Applications (Templates)

Job Application Email Structure

Subject line.

Choose a concise and clear subject line for your job application email. Make it relevant to the specific role you are applying for. This will make it easier for the recruiter to instantly identify the purpose of your email. For instance, use something like

“Job Application: [Position Title] – [Your Full Name]”.

It’s important to address the recipient with an appropriate greeting. If you know the name of the recruiter, use their title (Mr., Ms., or Dr.) followed by their last name, like “Dear Mr. Smith”. If you don’t know their name, you can use a general greeting, such as

“Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear [Company Name] Team” .

Closing the Email

When concluding your job application email, end with a professional and polite closing. Thank the recruiter for considering your application and express your enthusiasm for the role. Use phrases like “Sincerely,” “Best regards,” or “Kind regards,” followed by your full name and contact information, including your email address and phone number.

Throughout your job application email, maintain a professional tone and use standard font styles and sizes. Keep your sentences clear and concise. Ensure that you proofread the email for any typos or grammar errors before clicking send. Related: How To Email a Hiring Manager Directly (Examples)

Important Elements of Job Application Email

Contact information.

It’s crucial to include your contact information at the beginning of your job application email. Make sure to include your full name, professional email address, and phone number. Double-check this information for accuracy, as this is how the employer will contact you for further communication.

Mention the job title you are applying for in the subject line of your email. This helps the employer quickly recognize the purpose of your email and ensures your application gets directed to the right person or department. In the body of the email, you can restate the job title and explain why you are a great fit for the position.

Job Reference Number

If the job posting has a reference number, it’s essential to include it in your email. Reference numbers help employers keep track of multiple job openings and applications. Include the reference number in the subject line, along with the job title, for easy identification. Do not forget to mention it in the body of the email while discussing your interest and qualifications for the position. Using the job reference number will show the employer that you are detail-oriented and have thoroughly reviewed the job posting.

Related: How To Write an “About Me” Section in a Resume and How To List Certifications on a Resume (Examples)

Drafting the Email Content

First paragraph.

Start your email with a friendly but professional opening, addressing the recipient by their name if known. Briefly introduce yourself and mention the specific job title you are applying for. You can also include where you found the job posting to show your proactiveness.

For example:

Dear Mr. Smith, I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Coordinator position at XYZ Company, which I discovered while browsing LinkedIn.

Body of The Email

In the main section of your email, connect your skills, qualifications, and abilities to the job description. This is your chance to showcase why you are the perfect fit for the role. You can use bullet points to highlight your key achievements and experiences relevant to the position. Make sure to tailor your message to the specific position, rather than sending a generic email to multiple job postings.

For instance:

During my time at ABC Company as a Marketing Assistant, I gained valuable experience that aligns well with the requirements of the Marketing Coordinator role: Successfully managed social media campaigns that increased brand awareness by 30%. Led a team in creating and distributing monthly email newsletters, resulting in a 20% boost in website traffic. Developed and executed marketing strategies for product launches, contributing to a 15% increase in sales.

Final Paragraph

Wrap up your email by reiterating your interest in the role and expressing gratitude for the recipient’s time and consideration. Offer to provide any further information or materials as needed. Don’t forget to include your resume and cover letter as attachments to the email. Make it easy for the recipient to get in touch with you by providing your phone number and email address in the signature.

I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to XYZ Company’s marketing initiatives and believe that my skills make me a strong candidate for the Marketing Coordinator position. Thank you for your time and consideration. Please find my resume and cover letter attached to this email for your review. If you require any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Phone Number] [Email Address]

Sample Job Application Email Templates

Both of these templates demonstrate a clear, professional tone while addressing the job requirements and illustrating your qualifications. Use these as a foundation when creating your own job application email, tailoring the content to your specific situation:

Example 1: Applying for a specific position

Subject: Application for [Job Title] – [Your Name]

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I recently came across the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] and found it to be a great match for my skills and experience. I am excited to submit my application for your consideration.

As a [current or previous job title] with [number] years of experience in [industry or field], I have developed a strong foundation in [relevant skills or areas]. I am confident in my ability to deliver valuable contributions to your team.

I have attached my resume and cover letter for your review. If you have any questions or require additional information, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at [your phone number] or [your email].

Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences align with [Company Name]’s needs.

Best regards,

[Your Name] [Your phone number] [Your email address]

Example 2: Referral from a mutual connection

Subject: [Mutual Connection’s Name] referred me to [Job Title] position – [Your Name]

I hope you are doing well. I recently spoke with [Mutual Connection’s Name], and they recommended that I reach out to you regarding the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I believe that my background and experience make me an ideal candidate for the role.

With [number] years of experience in [industry or field], I excel at [list of relevant skills or areas]. My time as a [current or previous job title] has allowed me to develop a strong understanding of [specific industry-related concepts].

Please find my resume and cover letter attached for your review. If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to contact me at [your phone number] or [your email].

Thank you for taking the time to review my application. I am eager to explore the possibility of joining [Company Name] and contributing to its success.

Polishing Your Job Application Email

There’s nothing worse than having a fantastic job application marred by distracting grammar or spelling mistakes. Here are a few tips for polishing your email:

• Give yourself a break after writing the email, and then come back to it with fresh eyes. This will help you spot any errors you may have overlooked. Read through your text carefully, checking for grammar and spelling mistakes. Your email should be easy to read and understand.
• Don’t hesitate to use online tools like grammar checkers. These apps identify errors automatically, making it easier to spot and fix any issues. Just remember that such tools are not foolproof, so always double-check before relying on their suggestions.
• Finally, ask for feedback from someone you trust. Having a second pair of eyes reviewing your text is essential for catching errors and providing an outsider’s perspective on your email’s readability and tone. Remember to consider their suggestions and make revisions accordingly.

Related: Best Resume Summary Examples

Follow-Up Email Guide

Sending a follow-up email after a job application can significantly boost your chances of being called for an interview. It shows your interest in the position and helps you remain at the top of the recruiter’s mind. Here’s a guide to help you craft a compelling follow-up email:

• Timing is crucial. Wait for about a week after the stated deadline for applications, or if there’s no specified deadline, a week after you’ve sent your application. This gives the employer ample time to review your submission. If you follow up too soon, it may appear pushy, and if you wait too long, they might forget about your application.
• Subject line matters. Make your subject line clear and concise to grab the recruiter’s attention. Instead of generic phrases like “Follow-up,” consider using something specific like “John Doe – Marketing Manager Application Follow-up.” It gives them an immediate idea of who you are and the reason for your email.
• Be professional and polite. Begin your email by addressing the recipient appropriately, using their name if you have it. Also, express gratitude for the opportunity to apply for the position and remind them of your interest in the role.
• Mention your availability. Emphasize your readiness to provide additional information or documents, if necessary. Also, let them know if you have any upcoming commitments or dates that may affect your availability for an interview.
• Keep it concise. Your follow-up email should not exceed one or two short paragraphs. Recruiters are busy people, so avoid unnecessary fluff or repetition.
• End on a positive note. Close your email with a courteous expression of anticipation, such as “I look forward to discussing the position further” or “I appreciate your time and hope to hear from you soon.”
• Templates of effective follow-up emails: Get More Interviews: Follow Up on Job Applications (Templates)

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key components of a successful job application email.

To create a successful job application email, you should include:

• A concise and relevant subject line.
• A professional salutation that addresses the hiring manager by name.
• An opening paragraph that expresses your interest in the position and where you found the job posting.
• A brief summary of your qualifications and relevant experiences.
• Attachments or links to your resume, cover letter, and any requested documents or work samples.
• A closing paragraph that thanks the hiring manager and includes your contact information.
• A professional sign-off with your full name.

How can you make your job application email stand out from others?

To make your job application email stand out, consider:

• Personalizing your email by including the hiring manager’s name and mentioning something specific about the company or role.
• Using a compelling subject line that clearly conveys your interest and intent.
• Demonstrating enthusiasm for the position while showcasing your most relevant skills and accomplishments.
• Keeping your email concise, well-organized, and easy to read, with clear paragraphs and proper formatting.
• Proofreading your email thoroughly to ensure it’s free of typos and grammatical errors.

What are some best practices for professional email etiquette in a job application?

When sending a job application email, follow these professional email etiquette tips:

• Use a professional email address that includes your full name.
• Keep your subject line clear, concise, and relevant to the position.
• Begin with a professional salutation, addressing the hiring manager by name if you can.
• Write clear, concise paragraphs and use proper grammar and spelling.
• Keep your tone polite and professional, avoiding casual language or slang.
• Attach necessary documents as PDFs and avoid large or unusual file formats.
• Double-check the recipient’s email address and your attachments before sending.

Which subject lines work effectively for job inquiry emails?

Effective subject lines for job inquiry emails include:

• “Job Application: [Your Name] for [Position Title] at [Company Name]”
• “Experienced [Your Profession] Seeking [Position Title] Opportunity”
• “[Your Name]: [Position Title] Application”
• “[Position Title] Application – [Your Name]”

Remember to keep it concise and tailored to the specific job listing.

How to follow up on a job application email without sounding pushy?

To follow up on your job application email without sounding pushy:

• Wait an appropriate amount of time, usually 7-10 business days, before sending a follow-up email.
• Be polite and respectful in your email, acknowledging the hiring manager’s busy schedule.
• Reiterate your interest in the position and provide a brief recap of your qualifications.
• Keep your email short, to-the-point, and easy to read.
• Thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration.

What common mistakes should be avoided when writing a job application email?

Avoid these common mistakes when writing a job application email:

• Failing to include a relevant subject line or addressing the hiring manager by name.
• Forgetting to attach important documents or using improper file formats.
• Using unprofessional language or inappropriate humor.
• Sending overly lengthy emails or lengthy paragraphs that are hard to read.
• Skipping proofreading, which may result in typos or grammatical errors.
• Using the same generic email for multiple job applications without tailoring it to the specific position and company.
• Job Interview Request Email Responses (Detailed Examples)
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• How To Email a Hiring Manager Directly (Examples)
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How to Write a Job Application Letter (With Examples)

What Is a Job Application Letter?

Tips for writing a job application letter, how to get started.

• Writing Guidelines
• What to Include in Each Section

Simple Formatting Using a Template

Tips for writing an effective letter, sample job application letter, sending an email application, review more letter examples.

Do you need to write a letter to apply for a job? Most of the time, the answer is yes. Even when employers don’t require a job application letter , writing one will help you highlight your skills and achievements and get the hiring manager’s attention. The only time not to send one is when the job listing says not to do so. It can help, and it definitely won't hurt to include an application letter with your resume.

A job application letter, also known as a cover letter , should be sent or uploaded with your resume when applying for jobs. While your resume offers a history of your work experience and an outline of your skills and accomplishments, the job application letter you send to an employer explains why you are qualified for the position and should be selected for an interview.

Writing this letter can seem like a challenging task. However, if you take it one step at a time, you'll soon be an expert at writing application letters to send with your resume.

Melissa Ling / The Balance

Before you begin writing your job application letter, do some groundwork. Consider what information you want to include, and keep in mind that space is limited.

Remember, this letter is making a case for your candidacy for the position. But you should do more than just regurgitate your resume. Instead, highlight your most relevant skills, experiences, and abilities.

Analyze the Job Posting

To include the most convincing, relevant details in your letter, you'll need to know what the employer wants.

The biggest clues are within the job advertisement, so spend some time decoding the job listing . Next, match your qualifications with the employer's wants and needs.

Include Your Most Relevant Qualifications

Make a list of your relevant experience and skills. For instance, if the job ad calls for a strong leader, think of examples of when you've successfully led a team. Once you've jotted down some notes and have a sense of what you want to highlight in your letter, you're ready to start writing.

Writing Guidelines for Job Application Letters

Writing a job application letter is very different from a quick email to a friend or a thank-you note to a relative. Hiring managers and potential interviewers have certain expectations when it comes to the letter's presentation and appearance, from length (no more than a page) and font size to style and letter spacing . Keep these general guidelines in mind, but always stick to any explicit instructions in the job listing or application portal.

Length: A letter of application should be no more than one page long. Three to four paragraphs are typical.

Format and Page Margins: A letter of application should be single-spaced with a space between each paragraph. Use 1-inch margins and align your text to the left, which is the standard alignment for most documents.

Font: Use a traditional font such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri. The font size should be between 10 and 12 points.

What to Include in Each Section of the Letter

There are also set rules for the sections included in the letter, from salutation to sign-off, and how the letter is organized. Here's a quick overview of the main sections included in a job application letter:

Heading: A job application letter should begin with both your and the employer's contact information (name, address, phone number, email), followed by the date. If this is an email rather than an actual letter, include your contact information at the end of the letter, after your signature.

•   Header Examples

Salutation: This is your polite greeting. The most common salutation is "Dear Mr./Ms." followed by the person's last name. Find out more about appropriate cover letter salutations , including what to do if you don't know the person's name or are unsure of a contact's gender.

Body of the letter: Think of this section as having three distinct parts.

In the first paragraph , you'll want to mention the job you are applying for and where you saw the job listing.

The next paragraph(s) are the most important part of your letter. Remember how you gathered information about what the employer was seeking, and how you could meet their needs? This is where you'll share those relevant details on your experience and accomplishments.

The third and last part of the body of the letter will be your thank you to the employer; you can also offer follow-up information.

Complimentary Close: Sign off your email or letter with a polite close, such as "Best," or "Sincerely," followed by your name.

• Closing Examples

Signature: When you're sending or uploading a printed letter, end with your handwritten signature, followed by your typed name. If this is an email, simply include your typed name, followed by your contact information.

• Signature Examples

Overwhelmed by all these formatting and organization requirements? One way to make the process of writing a job application easier is to use a template to create your own personalized letters. Having a template can help save you time if you are sending a lot of application letters.

Be sure that each letter you send is personalized to the company and position; do not send the same letter to different companies.

• Always write one. Unless a job posting explicitly says not to send a letter of application or cover letter, you should always send one. Even if the company does not request a letter of application, it never hurts to include one. If they do ask you to send a letter, make sure to follow the directions exactly (for example, they might ask you to send the letter as an email attachment or type it directly into their online application system).
• Use business letter format. Use a formal business letter format when writing your letter. Include your contact information at the top, the date, and the employer’s contact information. Be sure to provide a salutation at the beginning and your signature at the end.
• Sell yourself. Throughout the letter, focus on how you would benefit the company. Provide specific examples of times when you demonstrated skills or abilities that would be useful for the job, especially those listed in the job posting or description. If possible, include examples of times when you added value to a company.

Numerical values offer concrete evidence of your skills and accomplishments.

• Use keywords. Reread the job listing, taking note of any keywords (such as skills or abilities that are emphasized in the listing). Try to include some of those words in your cover letter. This will help the employer see that you are a strong fit for the job.
• Keep it brief. Keep your letter under a page long, with no more than about four paragraphs. An employer is more likely to read a concise letter.
• Proofread and edit. Employers are likely to overlook an application with a lot of errors. Read through your cover letter, and if possible, ask a friend or career counselor to review the letter. Proofread for any grammar or spelling errors.

This is a job application letter sample.  Download the letter template (compatible with Google Docs or Word Online) or read the example below.

Sample Job Application Letter (Text Version)

Elizabeth Johnson 12 Jones Street Portland, Maine 04101 555-555-5555 elizabethjohnson@emailaddress.com

August 11, 2024

Mark Smith Human Resources Manager Veggies to Go 238 Main Street Portland, Maine 04101

Dear Mr. Smith,

I was so excited when my former coworker, Jay Lopez, told me about your opening for an administrative assistant in your Portland offices. A long-time Veggies to Go customer and an experienced admin, I would love to help the company achieve its mission of making healthy produce as available as takeout.

I’ve worked for small companies for my entire career, and I relish the opportunity to wear many hats and work with the team to succeed. In my latest role as an administrative assistant at Beauty Corp, I saved my employer thousands of dollars in temp workers by implementing a self-scheduling system for the customer service reps that cut down on canceled shifts. I also learned web design and timesheet coding, and I perfected my Excel skills. 

I’ve attached my resume for your consideration and hope to speak with you soon about your needs for the role.

Best Regards,

Elizabeth Johnson (signature hard copy letter)

Elizabeth Johnson

When you are sending your letter via email include the reason you are writing in the subject line of your message:

Subject Line Example

Subject: Elizabeth Johnson – Administrative Assistant Position

List your contact information in your signature, rather than in the body of the letter:

Email Signature Example

Elizabeth Johnson 555-555-5555 email@emailaddress.com

Review more examples of professionally written cover letters for a variety of circumstances, occupations, and job types.

CareerOneStop. " How Do I Write a Cover Letter? "

University of Maryland Global Campus. " Cover Letters ."

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How Ashleigh Went From Zero to 11 Job Interviews With Teal

The Candidate

The challenge, facing a layoff after transitioning to a new career.

After over a decade of working in nonprofits, Ashleigh Bergh Duggan felt burnt out and ready for a change. Wanting something different but not knowing what that looked like, she began exploring opportunities outside her familiar space.

"I had a friend who worked for a SaaS company. I reached out to her one day and said, 'I don't know what you do, but you seem to really like your job. And I need to do something different, but I don't know what different is.'"

Encouraged by her friend's positive experience and feedback, Ashleigh decided to explore opportunities in the tech industry.

As luck would have it, after several conversations with that same connection (and five rounds of interviews over two months), Ashleigh was able to pivot successfully into a customer success role in SaaS. She dug in deep and fell in love with learning, her customers, the energy, and her decision to pivot.

But everything changed when she was part of a layoff in March 2023.

After dedicating time and energy to establishing a new career, Ashleigh found herself without a job. She turned to LinkedIn and job listings to recalibrate her strategy. Recognizing the tech job market demanded a deep understanding of job roles and requirements, she identified and aligned her transferable skills—many of which she developed during her 10+ years in nonprofits.

What Ashleigh's job search looked like before Teal

Before Teal, Ashleigh's job search was filled with manual work and hours of research, trying to understand job titles and descriptions and how her skills aligned with them. It was also a struggle to keep up with the status of every application, which led to missed opportunities.

A self-described "Google Sheet Girlie," Ashleigh would spend hours daily combing through job boards and saving interesting opportunities to a sprawling Google Sheet. But she struggled to copy and paste all of the details for each role. Keeping track of all of the jobs, titles, where she applied, and whether she followed up quickly became one of the hardest parts of her search.

"Pre-Teal, I'd open a bunch of job descriptions. I'd then have to open Google Sheets. I'd copy and paste the title, copy and paste the job description, copy and paste the link, and copy and paste the date. It was a lot of back-and-forth and manual work just to keep track of stuff. And inevitably, I would end up forgetting to apply to something."

Ashleigh also spent significant time navigating well-meaning advice on her resume—but without any positive impact—leaving her with zero interview opportunities.

The constant context switching left her feeling scattered and stressed.

"There's just a lot of noise, and you're eager. In my case, I was eager, excited, and very determined to find my next role. And trying to sift through who to listen to and what kind of advice to follow was hard. It was just really, really hard."

She also felt frustrated and burnt out by the effort required just to apply for jobs, let alone land interviews.

There are just so many pieces to it rather than sending your resume out. That's not the world we live in anymore, and it was just overwhelming. There were a lot of moving pieces and a lot of stuff to keep track of, and pre-Teal, there was no easy way of keeping track of all of that information in one place."

Ashleigh knew there had to be a better way to manage the volume of a modern job search.

The Solution

Leveraging teal to manage, track, and optimize applications.

Without much clarity about what could or would be next, Ashleigh relied on LinkedIn to understand the tech job market.

"When I got back on LinkedIn in 2023, I was overwhelmed with influencers, content creators, people giving advice, and resume coaches. All of this information was presented in a very loud way that was overwhelming and intense."

But LinkedIn, despite the initial overwhelm, had its benefits.

Not only was Ashleigh exposed to companies she wouldn't find through a simple Google search, but she also discovered Teal through a LinkedIn influencer.

"Following a recruiter at a particular company, I started getting her newsletter. She referenced Teal, and I signed up right away."

Ashleigh initially used Teal to test the Job Application Tracker. Once she realized it was more than a glorified Google Sheet, she began tracking her entire job search and tailoring her resume in Teal.

"As I started to play around with it more and really spent time digging through the resume builder and leveraging it, I just fell in love with everything being all in one place and not having to search through a thousand different apps to keep track of my job search. It was all very handy and all in one place. It was great!"

Ashleigh used the Teal Job Tracker and the Chrome Extension to save and monitor the status of every job, manage what version of her resume she sent for a specific role, rate her excitement, and get a high-level overview of each position's status in her job search pipeline.

"It was the virtual assistant for my job search. It gave me a way to organize things and a way to track things. It also was a way to see which version of a resume I sent to what job so if I was being interviewed, I could look back and think, okay, this is the version I sent; these are the things I need to talk about versus having to search through all of my files and my drive and find, figure out which one it was." 

Before Teal, Ashleigh quickly learned links to job postings often expire or are removed when a company is no longer accepting applications. Teal helped remove the guesswork from the equation.

"In my pre-Teal days, I would save the job posting link. But if I would go back and the job had been closed to applicants, the job description would often just disappear. And then I'd panic and think, 'What did I even apply for? I don't even see the job description!' I needed those details. Having that information immediately pulled into Teal meant that even if that link disappeared or it was archived, I could still go back and reference it."

But the Job Tracker wasn't the only helpful tool Ashleigh found. She also used the Teal Resume Builder to create a base resume with all of her achievements, skills, and experience. Then, she used Matching Mode to tailor that resume so each version had only the most relevant information and language for a specific job.

"I had this long base resume of everything I've ever done and loaded it all into Teal. Then, I'd use Matching with each job. And if it was a 20 percent match or a 30 percent match, I'd look through it and see if it was low because I need to change the wording or because I literally have not done any of these things. Am I matching on the low side because I can't do the job, or am I matching on the low side because I can't articulate I can do the job?"

This process helped Ashleigh refine her approach to resume customization, so she presented her skills in a way that resonated. It also helped her learn how to adjust her language. With over a decade of nonprofit experience and just a few years in tech, Ashleigh used Teal to bridge the gap between each industry.

The Teal resume content that landed Ashleigh a job at a funded SaaS startup

Why it works: Ashleigh's resume incorporates the language used in tech to meet the expectations of the field—showcasing how her experience is relevant. She strategically highlights measurable technical skills to demonstrate her proficiency in areas aligning with tech job descriptions. Ashleigh also uses metrics to illustrate her impact—making her achievements concrete. Finally, less impactful details are found on the second page, so her most pertinent skills and experiences grab attention first.

A streamlined job search and multiple interviews

Integrating Teal into Ashleigh's job search significantly improved her process and the outcome—starting with getting her resume in front of the right people.

I had a former colleague who worked at a company I was interested in and pursuing an opportunity. There was an opening there, and using the job description, I edited my resume and sent it to her. She didn't have any follow-up questions. She scanned through my resume, and she was like, 'Yep, this looks great.' And sent it on.

Before Teal, Ashleigh would spend two to three hours on each application, copying and pasting relevant information from the job description into her spreadsheet, editing and updating her resume, and then filling out the application.

An added layer on top was all the administrative stuff and keeping track of your job search: editing your resume, reminding yourself, and keeping track of things like, did I email that person? Did I follow up? Do I know anybody?

But after adding Teal to her process, she reduced the application time to about an hour on average. With the time she saved? She was able to apply for more jobs, increasing the volume of applications by up to 50 percent.

But just getting more resumes in front of hiring managers wasn't the only benefit. Ashleigh also improved her interview response rate.

"I can tell you with almost a hundred percent certainty that I had no interviews before I started using Teal. None."

After Teal? Ashleigh's interview count skyrocketed from zero to eleven across the first and second rounds.

I think those potential obstacles that might have gotten in the way of getting my resume to the right people were removed because my resume was much clearer and much more aligned with the job description."

And when it came to her original reason for trying Teal, managing the overwhelm of the job search, Ashleigh found what she was looking for.

"Having everything in one place was just so helpful. I could log in and look at my dashboard and see everything in one place, see when I applied, if I had followed up, or what my follow-up date was. Visually, it was so clean and easy. And it just made it so much easier on me every day."

While 90 percent of Teal's tools and features are free and can support a job search, after experiencing the benefits of Teal+, Ashleigh opted for the more advanced and unlimited features.

"And then I paid for a Teal Plus membership. Basically, the whole time I was unemployed on my own, I put it in my budget. I was like, okay, I'm going to sacrifice something else, but it is worth it. It was worth every penny."

Landing a job at funded SaaS startup Lavender 

Ashleigh successfully landed a job at the funded SaaS startup Lavender, leveraging the tailored resume content she developed using Teal.

The role not only marked a significant career shift but also came with a compelling compensation package.

"I initially started at Lavender in User Success; the comp was listed in the job description at $85k a year, which was about a 15% increase from my previous role."

The benefits at Lavender are well-suited to her needs and include essentials like health, dental, vision, and a 401k match. Lavender is also chock-full of adaptability and support.

"I'm very lucky that our team is small enough that if there's something I need to help me be more successful in my role, my manager is always open to those conversations."

But for Ashleigh, the most standout benefit of a job at Lavender is the work-life balance.

"For the first time in my 15 years working in a professional capacity, I recently took an entire two-week vacation—no email, no Slack, nothing—and nothing fell apart while I was gone." 

Staying visible and asking for help

Beyond leveraging Teal to organize and optimize your job search, Ashleigh shared some tips on how to manage a noisy job search.

"Someone I connected with during my job search said something that I will never forget. She said The only person who has your job search top of mind all the time is you. Family, friends, they might think about you and your job search every once in a while, but you are the only person who is always—always—thinking about it.' It helped me realize that I would need to be more proactive in reminding folks that I was still looking and that it was on me to help them help me."

Keeping visibility in mind, Ashleigh developed a social template to clearly communicate how connections can assist job seekers.

Help Needed: I'm reaching out to my network for support in my job search.

About Me: [Concise 1-2 sentence description of your career history and experience.]

Looking For: [List the title or titles you're seeking, and general areas of interest, e.g., customer success.]

Strengths: [Top highlights about what you bring to the table.]

Achievements: [A few top achievements.]

Preference: [Remote, hybrid, or specific location.]

Call to Action: Please share this post or connect me with contacts who might help. In return, I'd love to assist in [specific area of expertise].

‍ Lavender is an AI Sales Email Coach that assists you in real-time to help you get more positive replies and write better emails faster.

Frequently Asked Questions

Kayte Grady

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