How to Send an Email Cover Letter (+ Steps and Examples)

What Is an Email Cover Letter?

An email cover letter is simply a cover letter that job seekers send in the body of the email rather than as an attached file. So an email cover letter is simply a cover letter, right? Yes and no. An email cover letter should encompass all the same points as a traditional cover letter, but there are some important formatting differences you should keep in mind.

For example, email cover letters are generally shorter and less detailed than traditional cover letters. There is also a need for an appropriate subject line. In many cases, recruiters and hiring managers will have a preference for the type of cover letter they receive, so be sure to check the job posting before you apply. Complying with requirements shows that you can take direction well.

What Are the Features of an Email Cover Letter?

If your job application requires an email cover letter, there are a few main features you should include in the body of your email. These features are the same as certain features in a traditional cover letter, but the way you handle them should be slightly different.

Subject line

The subject line of your email is important during a job application and technically forms a part of your email cover letter if you are submitting one. You should include your full name and the job title that you are applying for in the subject line in case the hiring manager is looking to fill more than one role. In fact, it can sometimes be beneficial to put the company name in the subject line too, in case the hiring is being undertaken by a third-party recruiter.

Salutation

Your cover letter salutation is always important. Try not to use a generic greeting like “Dear Hiring Manager” or “To Whom It May Concern,” but instead use the hiring manager’s name with the “Dear Mr.” or “Dear Ms.” salutation. The only time a generic greeting is appropriate is when you cannot find the hiring manager’s name, in which case you should opt for “Dear Hiring Manager.

Work experience and skills that make you great for the role

Do some research on the company and the potential job before you start writing your cover letter so you can discuss why you think you’re the right fit. Start your letter by giving some details about your background and top attributes, and then state why you want to work for the company. Once you have done so, you should give a summary of the reasons you feel you are the right person for the job. Try not to repeat information from your resume but instead view this as an opportunity to provide supplementary or more in-depth information.

Sign-off

Your closing paragraph should include a call to action (such as requesting an interview) and a professional sign-off that leaves a good impression on the hiring manager and prompts follow up contact. Use something like “Regards” and your full name rather than a more informal sign-off like “Yours.” 

Personal information

Just as you should include your personal information in a traditional cover letter, you should ensure that your email cover letter provides your full name and contact information. This includes your phone number, email address and any links to professional portfolios you may have. Make sure you use a professional email address and not your current work email. Avoid email addresses that have nicknames or numbers as much as possible. 

If you follow this basic structure, you will create a great email cover letter that has a good chance of landing you a new job. For more inspiration, check the cover letter examples for various jobs and industries that are available via ResumeHelp.

How To Format an Email Cover Letter

If you want to get the best possible results, it’s important that you know how to format all of these elements in your email cover letter. The proper email cover letter format is as follows:

An email cover letter should ideally be three or four paragraphs long. Once you have written your cover letter in the body of your email, take the time to double-check details like the email subject line, the file name of your resume, and the contents of your attached resume. Proofread thoroughly before you send the message, too. Remember, you can always use a cover letter template or builder to help create the best cover letter for you.