Interview Tips >7 Tips for Better Email Cover Letters
Now that most people apply for jobs online, the way that people apply has to change. In the past, the first part of your application was the cover letter. Employers would open an envelope and see your professionally typed cover letter before they had a chance to look at your resume.
Now, the first thing that the hiring manager sees is going to be the email you use to send the cover letter. You need to make sure that you have sent an email that is designed to improve your chances of getting the job. Note that an email cover letter is not the same as an actual cover letter. Actual cover letters should be attached to your email.
Tips for Making a Good Email Cover Letter
- Use the Subject Line
It is vitally important that you utilize the subject line of your email. Subject lines should not be bland and boring. They need to reference the specific job you are applying for, and possibly something about yourself, such as “Experienced CPA Interested in Accounting Lead Position.” Use title casing.
- Write a Unique Letter
You should still write a professional cover letter that you attach to your email. Your email letter should be unique and not contain any of the same sentences in your cover letter. It is easily possible that the hiring manager goes straight from your email to your cover letter, and if they do, you do not want them to re-read something they have already written.
- Keep it Short
Remember that you will have an actual cover letter attached to the email, so there is no reason to write a completely new cover letter for your email. Instead, simply write something that resembles a cover letter but is far briefer.
- Mention Your Resume and Cover Letter
At the end of your email, mention that you have both of your cover letter and resume attached. This will accomplish two things. First, it ensures they realize there is an additional cover letter to read. Second, if for any reason they are not attached, the employer knows to ask for them. It is not uncommon for employers to receive emails that say “please hire me” without any intention of sending a resume.
- Stay Professional
Your email letter should be as professional as your cover letter. Mention the job you are applying for, where you found it, and list your best qualities that make you an ideal candidate.
- Follow General Cover Letter Tips
The same tips that are used for writing cover letters apply to emails too. Don’t use clichés, don’t simply regurgitate your resume, etc. You do not need to write the complete cover letter, but you should at least keep the writing style in mind.
- Make it Readable
If possible, stay away from huge, bulky, single paragraph writing. It is better to use multiple paragraphs or bullet points or anything else that adds to readability.
An Email is a Terrible Thing to Waste
The first thing the employer is going to see is your email. Write a nice email to the employer when you send your resume and cover letter and you give a favorable first impression.
Take Away Tips
- Write a unique letter following cover letter rules.
- Remain professional and make your email job letter readable.
- Utilize your subject line.
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