How to Write an Email Cover Letter (With Examples)

Most job applications are sent via email. If an employer asks for an email cover letter, that means you’re expected to write a short cover letter in the body of your email that accompanies your full-length cover letter and resume.

If you aren’t explicitly requested to send an email cover letter but don’t know what to write in your email, you can follow this outline and send your cover letter and resume as a .PDF or .docx

Build My Cover Letter

Our cover letter builder can make you a cover letter in as little as 5 minutes. Just pick the template you want, and our software will format everything for you.

Five email cover letter samples

Here are five examples of compelling email cover letters, that can be used for several situations:

Example #1: impressing the hiring manager

Here’s an email cover letter sample from a candidate who wants to dazzle a hiring manager with their skills:

Example #2: keeping it brief

Here’s an example of a brief email cover letter:

Example #3: explaining relocation for an out-of-town position

Here’s an example of an email cover letter for an out-of-town position:

Example #4: explaining a short period of employment

Here’s an example of an email cover letter that explains a short period of employment:

Example #5: highlighting a colleague’s referral

Here’s an example of an email cover letter that highlights a colleague’s referral:

Six steps to writing a great email cover letter

We’ve got six steps to help you write your own compelling email cover letter:

1. Make it easy to read

The average recruiter spends very little time reading each email. If you want your job application to stand a chance, your email cover letter format must be clear and easy to read – even on a phone.

Each paragraph should be one to three sentences long. Ensure that your introduction, main body, and closing paragraphs are clear, so that hiring managers can skim and find the information they’re looking for.

2. Be direct and to the point

The trick for writing an email cover letter is to keep it informative but short.

Briefly introduce yourself, and your experience, qualifications, and skills to convince the hiring manager to consider your application.

To ensure you’re hitting all the right points without adding too much fluff, follow these three rules:

1. Include only the most relevant information concerning the position (check the job description and try to match the experience and skills you mention with it)
2. Highlight one (or two, maximum) of your professional achievements
3. Provide a brief, confident call-to-action, listing your contact information and your availability for an interview

3. Include an informative subject line

Your subject line is the first thing potential employers see. You might have an impressive resume and cover letter, but if your subject line is unclear, hiring managers won’t take the time to open your email.

To guarantee you win the hiring manager’s attention, your email subject line should be professional, brief, and relevant, including:

• Your name
• The position you’re applying for

The only exception to this rule is if the job you’re applying for has a specified format the employer wants your subject line to use. Double check the job listing to see if this is the case.

4. Personalize your email to the reader

Hiring managers are much more attentive when they read their own name, so make sure you address the hiring manager by name (if possible).

If you don’t know the hiring manager’s name, try to find it by:

• searching on LinkedIn
• checking the company’s website
• emailing the office manager or receptionist and asking for their name

If you’re unable to find the hiring manager’s name, try to avoid “Dear Sir or Madam” and use “Dear Hiring Manager” instead.

5. Finish with a convincing closing paragraph

Your email cover letter closing should lead to the next step of the hiring process by inviting the hiring manager to reach out to you.

Repeat your interest in the position and state your availability for an interview.

Be confident and make it clear that you’re available and interested, but don’t pressure the hiring manager to respond.

Finally, end with a professional and courteous sign-off such as “Sincerely,” “Regards,” or “Best regards.”

Here’s an example of how to close your email cover letter:

I’ve attached my resume and cover letter to this email. I welcome the opportunity for an interview to further discuss how my experience and skills can be an asset to Boston Global.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Regards,

Melissa Firscht

6. List your contact information in the signature block

Finally, end with a professional and courteous sign-off such as “Sincerely,” “Regards,” or “Best regards,” followed by your full name and your contact information. 

Here’s an example of a good sign off with all the contact information listed in the signature block: 

Regards,

Melissa Firscht
(908) 886-1924
melissa.firscht@gmail.com

Email cover letter template

Now that you know how to write an email cover letter for any situation, here’s a template you can copy-paste when writing your own email cover letter:

How to write a cover letter

Dread writing cover letters? Read our guide to learn how to write a great cover letter that convinces hiring managers you’re the ideal person for the job.

Read Our Guide

Tips for sending your cover letter

Once you’ve finished writing the main contents of your email cover letter, you’re ready to send it to the hiring manager (and attach your remaining application materials).

Before emailing your resume and cover letter though, there are three simple rules you should keep in mind:

1. Follow the instructions in the job ad — some jobs have specific instructions regarding how they would like your application materials attached. Double check the listing to make sure you’re following their guidelines.
2. Send your files in PDF or .docx format — PDF and .docx are the most accessible file formats and are considered standard for most jobs. If the employer doesn’t specify which, use PDF because it’s widely supported and will display the same on all devices and operating systems.
3. Use a professional file name — your file name should follow a format like “First-Name Last-Name Cover Letter.”
4. Use a professional email address — don’t send job applications from an email address ending with @yahoo.com or @aol.com. Likewise, don’t use an email address with nicknames, slang, or inappropriate language, as this could damage your professional image.