Aside from expressing who you are and what you want, an email can serve as a marketing tool to highlight your skills and experience and make you stand out in a crowded inbox. As a result, the subject line you choose can really influence whether or not you get noticed. How then can you encourage a reader to open your email and continue reading?
A hiring manager typically takes six seconds to review a CV, so it stands to reason that they will scan a job applicant’s email in even less time. The email’s subject line should make it clear to the hiring manager who you are and what position you are applying for without them having to open it.
Use this space to include any acronyms for titles you may have that are appropriate to the role in order to stand out from the competition and grab the hiring manager’s attention in the subject line. For example, you might add MBA, CPA, or Ph. D. after your name, depending on the relevance to the position.
How to write a subject line for a job application
When writing a subject line for a job application, keep the following in mind:
1. Create a professional email address
Your first and last name, or your first initial and last name, are prominently displayed in a professional email address. It will make it easier for your recipient to recognize you when you apply for jobs and in subsequent correspondence. If you dont have one, you can easily create it.
2. Verify the instructions
It’s possible that the employer gave precise instructions on how to apply. If there are instructions in the subject line, heed them and don’t add more information. For example, they may ask you to provide the position, Job ID # and your name.
In the absence of any specific instructions, you can use a typical subject line and the following information:
Subject: Job application—Job title, Job ID (if applicable)—Your Name
You can include your job title, the word resume, your name, and your contact information if you send your resume without applying for a specific position. For instance: Subject: Senior accountant resume, Mark Don.
3. Write the purpose of your email
To make it easier for the hiring manager to immediately understand the purpose of your email, include the words “job application” and the job title. Your application will be placed in the correct folder, increasing the likelihood that it will be read.
4. Include keywords
There might be automatic filters in the recipients inbox. By including the relevant keywords in your email, you will make it simple for the search engine to find your submission. When a job ID is mentioned in the job description, “job candidate” can be used as a keyword.
5. Write your name
Finally, add your name to facilitate the recruiters identification task. If not, they would have to access your email and search for your name. Introduce yourself in the subject line of your email to increase the likelihood that it will be opened since people rarely have a lot of time.
6. Referrals and follow-up
Referrals establish trust between you and your recipient. You draw the recruiters’ attention by mentioning the name of someone who currently works for the organization you are applying to.
If you were recommended for this position, you could say “recommended by” You can include “thank you” before the job title in your email to the interviewer as a follow-up after the interview.
7. Personalize it
When they relate to a job application, certain details might catch the reader’s eye, such as:
8. Stay succinct
It will be simpler for the recipient to classify your email and respond quickly if you use a specific subject line. Also, you should keep it short. Nowadays, many people read their emails on their smartphones. Use the first words to write the crucial email subject lines since mobile devices only display 25–30 characters Be succinct so the hiring manager understands the email’s purpose right away.
9. Proofread
Before sending your email, make sure the text is edited and the subject line is error-free. Keep in mind that this is the first impression you will make on a potential employer.
Why is the subject line for a job application important?
The first thing recipients see in an email is the subject line, which may influence whether they open the message. Because many people scan their inboxes and delete anything that appears irrelevant or spam-like, your subject line can stand out and attract readers.
Additionally, the subject line serves as your employer’s first encounter with you. It should be well-written and free of grammatical and spelling mistakes. Finally, the subject line is an opportunity to introduce yourself. Making sure your name is prominently displayed in the subject line may increase your chances of being read since they may not yet be familiar with you.
What to avoid when writing your subject line
Here are things to avoid in your subject line:
An unprofessional email address
Email addresses that don’t include your name or have nicknames in them might not be taken seriously if you apply for a job.
There are numerous alternatives you can use to create your email address if the first name-last name format is no longer available. You can use your name and the job title you are applying for in your email. As long as it’s brief and professional, it can contain a few numbers.
Informal words
There should be no informal language in your subject line, such as “Hey” or “Whats up.” ” You should also avoid any impolite language.
Too long or complicated
Your subject line should not be too long or complicated. State your intention clearly in the first words. Dont give too many details. The goal is to get your email opened. Later in the application process, you will have the chance to supply more details.
Too generic
Non-specific subject lines might not catch the attention of hiring managers or escape their inbox filters. Generic subject lines on emails increase the likelihood that they will go unnoticed or forgotten.
Capitalizing every word in the subject line
Dont capitalize every word in your job application subject line. It presents a poor professional image and might make your email appear spammy. Instead, You should only capitalize the first word. Except for names, the rest should be written in lowercase.
Not respecting a specific subject line instruction
Start by adhering to them because the recruiter is interested in learning about your ability to follow instructions, especially if the employer gave specific instructions on the subject line to use. You can check the job posting, the company website, or the HR information before sending your resume.
Email subject line examples
For ideas, consider the following sample job application subject lines:
When you send your application
When you send your application and you personally know the recipient
When you send your application with referrals
When you follow up after an interview
Email Subject for Sending Resume | 5 Interview Getting Email Subject Tips
FAQ
What should my subject line be for a job application?
Include the job title. Use the job title as the subject line of an email when applying for a job so the employer knows what position you are interested in. That makes it easier for busy hiring managers to quickly determine which position you are applying for.
What should I write in subject line of my resume?
- Drop the name of a heavy hitter. …
- Use the position title and job number. …
- Add your most critical skill or professional credential. …
- List your experience. …
- Include helpful keywords and phrases. …
- Express your intent and gratitude.
