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• Email Subject Lines for...

Email Subject Lines for Resume & Job Applications (+Examples)

5 min read · Updated on March 25, 2021

Don't let your email get lost — or worse ignored — when submitting your resume.

Your email address and email subject line are the first two things a recruiter or hiring manager sees when you send them your resume. Since hiring managers can receive hundreds of emails a day, you want — and need — your job application subject line to catch their eye and pique their interest. Otherwise, the email with your attached resume might get lost, or worse ignored, in the email shuffle.

Read on to learn how to write the best email subject line to get your email noticed every time.

5 tips for writing the best email subject line when submitting a resume

Keep it short and concise.

Your email subject lines for a job application should be brief and to-the-point. If you write too much text, then it can get cut off in the subject line, especially on smaller devices like smartphones. In fact, eMailmonday reports that up to 77 percent of emails are opened on mobile phones.

As a result, it is suggested that subject lines be less than 50 characters. The first few words should identify that you're applying for a job and catch the reader's attention

Include referral info

If you were referred for a position, include the person's name in the subject line. Many organizations offer an employee referral program given that there is already credibility built into a referral. By including a referral name, you can get your foot in the door before anyone even looks at your resume. An example of a job referral subject line is:

“Referral From Jane Doe: Joe Smith, Resume for Junior Marketing Position”

Refer to instructions

If you have a job description to refer to, be sure to read it carefully and follow the submission instructions. If it says to include the position name, position location, position ID, and your name, then include only that. If you were referred to the job, it's OK to include the referral name as well. Here are a few subject line examples:

“Senior Marketing Manager, Houston, Job ID 21, Jane Doe”

“Referred by John Smith: Senior Marketing Manager, Houston, Job ID 21, Jane Doe”

Be professional

Keep your email subject line professional; don't use informal words such as “hey” and “howdy.” Also, avoid using shorthand or abbreviations if they aren't part of the job title or submission instructions.

 Avoid this: “Howdy Hiring Manager, Joe Smith Applying for Accountant, Houston”

And do this: “Job Application, Joe Smith Applying for Accountant Position, Houston”

Similar to any job marketing collateral, proofread your subject lines to ensure there are no typos or punctuation errors. You don't want your email to be overlooked or left unopened due to a bad first impression from an avoidable typo in your subject line.

How to write the perfect subject line for submitting your resume

Include the pertinent details.

If instructions on how to apply are not outlined in the job post and you don't have a referral, then the best email subject lines will include:

The reason for your email

Position title

Position location (if provided)

Position ID (if provided)

“Applying for Marketing Manager, Houston, Job ID 25, John Smith”

“Job application — Marketing Manager, Houston, Job ID 15 — John Smith”

If you're not applying for a specific job, and instead, you're inquiring about job possibilities, include:

Reason for your email

Brief qualifier (if beneficial and not too long)

Referral (if relevant) 

“Job inquiry — John Smith, 10+ years of experience in IT”

“Inquiry — Jane Doe, PR Specialist Open to New Opportunities”

“HR Operations Manager Looking for Next Position”

“Job Inquiry — Referred by Jane Doe — Joe Smith, HR Specialist”

Include certifications

If you have certifications or qualifications that add value to your job application or are required for the job, include them in the subject line. Here are a few email subject line examples of how to do that.

 “Job application — Marketing Manager, Job ID 25 — John Smith, Google Creative Certification”

 “Job application — IT Analyst — John Smith, Microsoft Certified”

 “Applying for Accountant Director — Jane Doe, CPA”

Use a professional email address

Think of your email address as your email subject line's partner. Many recruiters and hiring managers frown upon unprofessional email addresses and don't open emails from job applicants that use them — even if they have a good subject line. For example, don't use addresses like [email protected] or [email protected].

Your email address should be professional, and ideally, identify who you are. Use your first name and last name, if it's available. If it's not, then use some combination of your name and profession or your name and a numerical value. For example:

• [email protected]
• [email protected]
• [email protected]

Your email subject line is a crucial part of your job-marketing strategy. Work with the tips above to craft email subject lines that help you get you one step closer to landing the job. You also want to ensure that you have a well-crafted resume that highlights why you're the right candidate for the job. Good luck!

Don't waste your time Googling. Get expert career advice delivered straight to your inbox .

Recommended Reading:

4 Smart Tactics for Sending Emails to Recruiters

Best Practices for Professional Email Etiquette in Every Situation

5 Ways to Keep Your Emails Short and Sweet

Related Articles:

8 Tips to Stand Out in a Competitive Job Market

There's Nothing Wrong With Having a Gap Between Jobs

7 Signs Your Resume is Making You Look Old

See how your resume stacks up.

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• Career Planning
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• Cover Letters

Email Cover Letter Examples and Formats

What to Include in Your Email

How to format an email cover letter, email cover letter examples, cover letter articles and advice.

 Hero Images / Getty Images

An email cover letter includes all the essential elements of a hard copy cover letter and serves the same purpose: to impress the hiring manager and convince them to bring you in for an interview.

It’s essential to follow the employer's instructions so that you don’t wind up bounced from contention because of a technicality. You might be asked to send your cover letter in the body of the email or as an attachment, or to add a specific subject line, or to send it as a specific file type, e.g., a Word document or PDF.

Cover Letter Salutation

It’s best to address your letter to a specific person, instead of using a generic salutation like "To Whom It May Concern" or "Dear Sir or Madam." These can look unprofessional and like you didn't make an effort.

Cover Letter Body

The body of your cover letter lets the employer know what position you are applying for, why the employer should select you for an interview, and how you will follow up. This section of your cover letter includes:

• First paragraph: Why you are writing. It is "the grab," your chance to grasp your reader by the collar and get his attention. Offer some specific, focused information regarding the job you're seeking and a few core strengths that demonstrate suitability for the position.
• Second paragraph: What you have to offer the employer. It is your hook where you highlight examples of the work you’ve performed and the results you’ve achieved. Draw on your key competencies from your resume, though don't copy it word for word. Bullet points in this paragraph are effective in drawing your reader's eye to your successes.
• Third paragraph: Your knowledge of the company. Show that you did your research and know something about the business and how you can contribute to its mission.
• Fourth paragraph: Your closing. Summarize what you would bring to the position and suggest next steps by requesting a meeting or suggesting a call.
• Address an Email Cover Letter : Make sure your cover letter and other materials get to the right place – and make a good impression when they get there.
• Email Cover Letter Subject Line Examples : The subject line is the first thing a hiring manager will see when they look at your email. Make yours count.
• Email Cover Letter Salutation Examples : Confused about how formal or informal to be in your salutation? These tips will help.
• Email Cover Letter Closing Examples : Keep it professional all the way through, with these cover-letter ready closers.

Most cover letters follow the same basic format, but the contents will be very different, depending on your goals and circumstances. These templates cover a wide range of situations, from a cold email inquiring about job openings to an internal job promotion cover letter to a job transfer request.

• Email Cover Letter Sample
• Sample Email Cover Letter Inquiring About Job Openings
• Sample Email Cover Letter - Part-Time Job
• Sample Cover Letter - Referred by a Contact
• Sample Email Cover Letter - Summer Job
• Sample Email Message - Volunteer Position
• Sample Formatted Email Cover Letter Message
• Job Promotion Cover Letter
• Job Transfer Request Email Message
• Job Transfer Request Email Message - Relocation

Whether you’re looking for your very first job or making a career change to something new and different, there are certain guidelines that can help you create a cover letter that sells your experience. For example:

• Write a customized cover letter for every job opening . You may develop your own cover letter template to help you get started, but be sure to tweak it every time so that it’s a perfect fit for the role’s requirements.
• Include keywords in your cover letter . Analyze the job listing, looking for keywords that describe the job duties and the experience and skills required to fulfill them. Then, use those words in your cover letter and resume. It will help you get past the applicant tracking system and to a real human being who can call you for an interview. 
• Proofread, proofread, proofread. Pay special attention to the name of the hiring manager and the company and its products. Then, ask an eagle-eyed friend to give your cover letter one last review before hitting “send.” 

• Job Search Tips

Email Subject Lines for a Job Application (Examples + Tips)

10 min read

With 250+ resumes sent for a single job opening, you want your resume to stand out from the crowd. Emailing your resume directly to the relevant recruiter or hiring manager when applying for a job is one of the most effective ways to land an interview!

However, you need to do this correctly: starting with the subject line. When selecting an email subject for sending a resume, make sure to keep it short, follow any provided directions, and use the power of a name to get your email open.

Since this is the first contact you’ll have with your potential employer, you want to ensure it’s done right. With hiring managers and recruiters receiving tons of resumes through email, the email subject for a job application could be the difference between getting your email opened or deleted.

Nearly 1/3 of people decide whether or not to open an email based on the subject.

Not to worry, we’ve got your back! We’ll show you how to write the perfect email subject lines for a job application and provide examples and tips to help you stand out from the crowd. 

Why is the subject line for a job application important?

Let’s think about your subject line being the thing that helps you stand out among other job seekers. The first thing to realize is that there are probably hundreds of applicants for each job that you’re applying to. Keeping your email subject line short and sweet will help ensure that the recipient immediately knows why you’re messaging them, which is good because of the vast amount of other emails they have to go through. 

Also, if you’re sending your email to apply for (or inquire about) an open position, it could be the first opportunity you have to make a good impression. It’s the first glimpse your prospective employer gets into your ability to communicate effectively and concisely. 

Top 3 tips for the perfect subject line when emailing your resume

Studies have found that 35% of email recipients decide whether or not they’ll open an email simply based on the subject line, so make sure what you’re typing is concise, but relevant, to the reason you’re reaching out. To get your email opened, you need to keep these tips from our career experts and former hiring managers in mind.

1. Keep it short and simple

Remember that brevity is important when writing your specific subject line. Most of the text in the email subject line gets cut off so ensure the first few words capture attention.

Hubspot recommends keeping the subject line length under 50 characters. That way, while scanning the inbox, your receiver pretty much knows what the email is about. It’s fine to go over this a bit, but ensure you get the important details in the first few words.

You shouldn’t put anything in the subject line that sounds like you’re trying to sell something. Avoid soft skill phrases like “dedicated” or “passionate.” This is a major turnoff for hiring managers – and will likely earn your email a one-way trip to the trash folder.

EXPERT TIP: Most emailed resumes are still going through an applicant tracking system (or ATS) of some sort. Here are some tips on passing the ATS resume test .

2. Follow instructions

If you’re emailing about a specific job posting, you should always check the job description for instructions regarding submitting an application. Sometimes you’ll find clear, specific instructions on what the person wants in a professional subject line.

For example, if the job listing specifically asks for the position, Job ID #, and your name, you would simply write:

Marketing Manager, Job ID # 2283, John Doe

Don’t add anything else if instructions have been provided! Follow directions . This could weed you out as an applicant.

3. Use a referral name

Did someone in the company refer you? If so, this is possibly the best way for a job candidate to capture the hiring manager's attention of a hiring manager. Ensure you use the name of the person who referred you in the subject line.

This is what that would look like:

Referral from Tom Nash: John Doe, candidate for Senior Accountant position

Most positions filled today come through some sort of referral as there is already a trust factor established when an employee, or someone associated with the company, refers you. Hiring managers love referrals so be sure to mention their name and “referral” in the first few words of the email subject line!

Expert Tip: Learn How to Ask for a Job Referral + 5 Templates .

Email subject line examples

The bottom line is that your email subject line should be direct. Never leave the HR manager to wonder what the email is about. If you’re following up on an interview or job application, state it directly. If you’re applying for a new role that has a job advertisement associated with it, try to include one or two keywords from the job description. That’ll really help your email stand out as something that’s relevant to the person reading it. 

Here are some examples: 

Accountant seeking position requiring GAAP knowledge – Jane Smith

Project Manager passionate about Team Building – Suzy Colter

Digital Marketing expert with 10 years’ experience – Brian Smith

Sales Rep dedicated to forging loyal relationships – Brad Toler

Web Developer specializing in user-side features – Tammy Rae

Perfect cold job search email subject line

Sometimes, there’s a company you want to work for but you can’t find a single job opening. That doesn’t mean you can’t reach out to them. It’ll take a bit of research on your part to find out who you’re supposed to email (the best place to do that research is LinkedIn). Once you find the name of the person to contact, you’ll be sending what’s referred to as a cold job search email. 

In this instance, you have to be even more mindful of your email subject line because the hiring manager won’t be expecting to see a job application email. Don’t beat around the bush, make it clear that you are reaching out for a job, and try to mention a skill or two that will impress your recipient. 

Here are some examples of cold job search email subject lines:

Job Inquiry – Software Engineer, AWS Expert

Letter of Interest: Account Manager, Multimillion-Dollar Accounts

Is ABC Co hiring [Job Title]? – I have 10+ Years of Experience.

Excited to be your next Accounting Team Member

If you have major qualifications or certifications

If there are certifications or major qualifications you possess you should include them. If the position requires a CPA certification, list it after your name. This could help you stand out to the hiring manager. For example:

Job application – Accountant, Job Id #4453 – John Doe, CPA

What to avoid when writing your subject line

It’s easy to fall into some traps when writing your email subject line. Sadly, succumbing to these pitfalls can be a big hindrance to your success in getting through to the hiring manager. Always remember, the delete button is so very conveniently located. Think about how you go through your own email. Bad subject lines get tossed, right? 

1. Use a professional email address

Not having a professional email is one of the worst mistakes you can make as a job seeker. Hiring managers and recruiters will usually reject an email if it sounds unprofessional. Emails like “Knicksfan11” or “MichaelandBrianna229283” will not be taken seriously.

Your email should be a combination of your first and last name or your name and the job title you’re after. Having a few numbers in your email is fine, but too many will make you look like a bot. Be careful with using numbers that allude to your age (year of birth) or location (zip code).

Just like customizing your LinkedIn URL, your professional email address should stick to basic information like your name, job, or possibly your general location.

Here are examples of acceptable emails:

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

Newer email servers like Gmail come across as more professional than AOL, but your focus should be on the first part of your email address. Custom domains are another option for further personalization!

2. Avoid being too general with your opening line

Many people scan the first line of an email message along with the subject line. You want to explain who you are and why you’re emailing right off the bat. Just like with the email subject line, you want to grab the hiring manager’s attention with specific language that highlights your skills and achievements in a way that helps them see how you’ll benefit their team. 

3. Don’t forget to be professional

You are not emailing your buddy asking if they want to go to the BBQ this weekend. You are emailing your future boss – potentially. Keep it professional by avoiding language like “Hey” or “What’s up.” Also, emojis have no place in a professional email to someone you want to impress. In fact, it’s been suggested by some hiring managers that emails from job seekers that contain emojis indicate that the person writing the message doesn’t know how to take things seriously. Is that the type of message you want to relay?

Sample email message for a job application

If you’ve made it this far, then you’ve had a lot of information thrown at you and mostly all we’ve talked about is the email subject line. What about the rest of the email? To minimize any distress you’re feeling right now about how to write an email to a prospective employer, here is a sample message that you can use for inspiration in writing your own: 

Subject: Job Inquiry from SEO Marketer with 10 Years of Experience

Dear [Hiring Manager Name], 

Thank you for opening this email in which I would like to express my interest in an SEO Marketer position at [Company Name]. The latest news from your company indicates a shift into new markets and I am confident that I can help make that happen. 

Over the last 5 years, I worked with [Previous Company Name] and became the go-to person for market research and helped localize the company’s website to two new markets. I helped them develop new, culturally sensitive digital marketing campaigns that saw huge returns in client conversions and a great ROI. 

All of this is definitely repeatable for your company. I’d love to learn more about your plans for market expansion and discuss other skills, qualifications, and career achievements I can bring to your team. Please feel free to reach out to me at [email address] or [telephone number] so that we can find time to have a meeting. 

I appreciate the opportunity to work with you and understand your time is valuable. Thank you for spending some of your day reading my email. I look forward to hearing back from you.

[Your Name]

No fluff – just action

The tips above should help you craft the perfect email subject when submitting a job application or following up. Always cut straight to the point and leave out the fluff. Using tricks and keywords that hook someone into opening an email will not work with hiring managers and recruiters. Remember that once you capture the attention of the employer, you want to have a solid resume that clearly and effectively portrays why you’re a good fit for the position or company. For an expert’s opinion of your resume, try out ZipJob’s free resume review or hire an expert today.

ZipJob is a resume and cover letter writing service with over 100 professional resume writers ready to help you impress recruiters and hiring managers. Check out more ZipJob reviews or get started with a free resume review from our experts.

Recommended reading:

7 Tips for Writing A Cold Email for a Job (+ Examples)

How To Follow Up After An Interview (+ Examples)

How to Write a Thank You for Your Consideration Email

Marsha Hebert, Professional Resume Writer

Marsha is a resume writer with a strong background in marketing and writing. After completing a Business Marketing degree, she discovered that she could combine her passion for writing with a natural talent for marketing. For more than 10 years, Marsha has helped companies and individuals market themselves. Read more advice from Marsha on ZipJob's blog .

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An email cover letter

Learn how to write a cover letter or email to respond to a job advert.

Do the preparation task first. Then read the text and tips and do the exercises.

Preparation

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From : Laura Mazzanti To : David Kelly, HR Manager Subject : Application for sales manager position

Dear Mr Kelly,

I am writing in response to the job advertisement on the ABC Jobs website for the position of sales manager.

I have five years of experience in sales. For the last three years, I have worked as a team leader, managing a team of 20 sales assistants in a large store. I have experience in hiring, training and managing staff. I have good communication skills and I can speak Italian, Spanish and English.

I have attached my CV with more information about my background and qualifications.  

I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best regards,

Laura Mazzanti

• Be specific in the subject line and say what job you are applying for.
• Start your email with Dear Mr/Mrs/Ms + person's surname.
• Say where you saw the advertisement.
• Say which job you're applying for. You can use the sentence I'm writing in response to the job advertisement for the position of … .
• Write a short paragraph to say why you're suitable for the job. Mention your education, qualifications, work experience or skills.
• Attach a CV (also known as a résumé in the USA) with more information about your qualifications and background.
• End by saying I look forward to hearing from you soon or I hope to hear from you soon .
• Sign off with Best regards or Best wishes .

What kind of information would you include in your CV or résumé?

Language level

I would include only information relevant to the position I am applying for, like my experience in  similar jobs where I have done the kind of job I’m trying to get with the cover letter. I also would include some details about the skills I used in other jobs that may need in the line of work of the company that  is offering the job I’m applying to.

Thanks for the lesson.

Great site!!

• Log in or register to post comments

My resume includes information about my personal information, work experience, skills, education, and motivation.

In my resume, I include information about: 1.Personal information (Name, date of birthday(age), email,phone number...) 2.Education 3.Work experience(previous workplaces) 4.Relevant skills 5.Why I want this job

Dear Mr. Vizitue,

I am writing in response to the job post on the DSGN Jobs website for the position of graphic designer.

I have 7 years of experience in design. For the last four years, I have worked as a freelancer with numerous creative projects and different types of clients. I have experience in motion design, infographics, typography, and artificial intelligence. I possess good communication skills and am fluent in English, German, and Finnish.

I have attached my CV along with my portfolio and additional information about my background and qualifications.

I hope to hear from you soon.

Best wishes, An Andre

In my resume, I include information about my work experience, age, education, skills, and hobbies.

In my resume, I include some information such as personal information, skills, portfolios, relevant work experience, previous workplaces, reasons for leaving jobs, and some of my outstanding personality traits.

My CV includes job experiences, educational background, and skills. Those are essentials for a resume.

In my CV I include short info about me, my professional skills and my hobby with a few of jokes. It's welcome in IT)

The kind of information that we should include in a résumé: - Personal information (Name, date of birthday, email, address, phone number...etc) - Education career - Work experiences - Skills - Habits

In my opinion, would include in CV or resume , picture person ( uniform), also information personal, Education , skills and qualification.

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