To land your dream job you’ll have to perfect your application.
New years are for fresh starts, and what better way than applying for your dream job? But to land the job, you’ll have to perfect your application. Here we discuss how to write an email for a job application.
There are several ways to apply for a job. Many employers and recruiters use online systems to manage the job application process. Still, however, one of the most popular methods of inquiry is through a job application email sent directly to the hiring manager.
A job application gives you the chance to pitch yourself for a position in your own words. Critically, a job application email includes your:
Other types of documentation may include examples of your work including writing samples or graphics from past completed projects.
Your cover letter can be included in the body of the email, or instead as a PDF attachment. The preference for this may be influenced by industry and job position. The material you include in your cover letter should always be specific to the job ad, so use this as your guide.
A job application email is your first introduction to the hiring manager. Ensure you are professional, and concise and answer the key requirements included in the job listing. This includes the who, what and why of your job application email.
Hiring managers will receive several emails every day. More even when they have an active job listing. Ensure your subject line is direct and can be clearly linked to the position you are applying for.
Try following this format: [Your name] – [Job Position Title]
Include a reference number if this is also provided in the job advertisement.
It is always better to send your job application email directly to one person. This person should be listed on the job ad and expecting your email. This also allows you to cater your opening greeting directly to this person.
If a generic email address has been listed, look through the company’s LinkedIn and website to see if you can determine the person most likely to open and read the email. If this isn’t obvious, you can always rely on ‘To whom it may concern” or ‘To the Hiring Manager“.
Your opening paragraph should explain why you are emailing the hiring manager. Mention the job position you are applying for, where you viewed the JD and the reference number if there is one. Then introduce yourself by your job title and a brief line on your experience.
“I would like to apply for the position of [Job Title] advertised on 10th January 2022 on Seek. I am a [Job Title] and [Second Job Title] with 10 years of experience in the Australian market.”
In the next paragraphs, speak directly to the requirements listed in the job ad. Why would you be a good fit? Why are you the best candidate for the job? What is your relevant experience? What can you bring to the company?
Be sure to include key successes that they will see in your resume, but do not include your entire working history in your cover letter.
Remember to express your excitement at this opportunity and that you look forward to hearing back. If you would prefer to be more aloof, something like “Thank you for your consideration” also suffices.
It’s good practice to include your contact details in your email signature, including a direct link to your LinkedIn. Ensure your LinkedIn is up-to-date so it is an accurate presentation of your skills and knowledge (See: Four quick tips to refresh your LinkedIn profile).
Access the latest on hiring trends, people + culture and putting your best foot forward.
