Sending CV by Email: Subject, Writing and Tips

Why sending a good email with your CV is important

Sending your job application by email ensures it lands directly in the hiring manager’s inbox. They’re more likely to read it in detail than if they receive it as part of a batch of applications from an online portal. As such, writing a strong accompanying message when sending your CV by email can really help your chances of success.

Your email message will be the first thing the employer reads before opening your CV. First impressions count for a lot, so it’s important to make sure it’s well-written, with a professional tone. Your email message can act as your cover letter for email applications, so it’s crucial that you introduce yourself, explain why you want the job and outline some of your key skills and experience in your message. Aim for a neatly formatted, clear and concise email that encourages the employer to read your CV in detail.

How to email your CV

If you want to send the perfect email accompanying your CV, read our guide below. The guide describes each step towards writing an email that’ll make a positive first impression with employers.

Subject line of your email

The subject line of your email is the introduction to your application. It’s crucial to make your subject line clear and obvious, so the reader knows what they’re opening when they click on your email. Include the words ‘job application’ or similar, add the job title for the role and your name. For example, a clear, direct subject line could be ‘Adam Harmison — Project Manager Job Application’.

Addressing the hiring manager

Email is a less formal communication method than letter writing, so there’s no need to use outdated, formal greetings. If you know the name of the hiring manager or recruiter, include their first name for a personal touch. For example, you could write ‘Dear Elaine,’ or ‘Hi Elaine,’. If you don’t know the name of the hiring manager, you could just open your email with ‘Hi,’.

Body of the email

The body content of the email will depend on whether you’re sending a separate cover letter, or whether you’re writing your cover letter in the email itself. For most email applications, it’s more effective to use the email itself for your cover letter, rather than attaching a separate cover letter. Recruiters and employers are more likely to read an email message than an attached letter.

You might want to open your email with a pleasantry to show courtesy, such as ‘I hope this email finds you well’. If you’re including a separate cover letter, your email can simply confirm the job you’re applying for, and direct the reader to the attachments. Include a call to action to encourage the reader to contact you for further discussion.

If you’re using your email as your cover letter, explain the role you’re applying for, why you’re applying for it and how it fits with your experience and ambition. Add a sentence directing the reader to your attached CV. Write a paragraph outlining your relevant skills, experience and achievements. Finish by emphasising your enthusiasm for the opportunity, thanking the employer for considering your application and adding a call to action to keep the dialogue open between yourself and the employer.

Ending the email

Signing off your email doesn’t need to be as formal as a traditional letter, but there are some details you should include. You can use a slightly more formal sign-off, such as ‘Sincerely,’ or a less-formal one such as ‘Regards,’, ‘Best regards,’ or ‘Best wishes,’. Under this, add your full name, your email address and your telephone number. If you have a website or LinkedIn profile, you could also add these here.

Your email message will be the first thing the employer reads before opening your CV. First impressions count for a lot, so it’s important to make sure it’s well-written, with a professional tone.

Examples of an email for your CV

Take a look at the examples below for inspiration writing your own CV emails. The first example is a short email for applications where you’re including a cover letter separately. The second example is a longer email that includes a cover letter in the body text of the email.

Example 1:

Dear Caroline,

I’m writing to apply for the role of Associate Research Director, as advertised on CVwizard.

I’ve attached my CV and cover letter below for your review.

Thank you for considering my application. Please don't hesitate to contact me if you require any additional information, or to discuss my application further.

Regards,
Susan Penfold

E: Susan.K.Penfold@example.com
T: 07634 843752

Example 2: 

Hi Iain,

I’m writing to apply for the position of Marketing Manager, as advertised on CVwizard. The job description closely matches my profile and skills as an experienced Senior Marketing Executive with a track record of managing successful digital marketing campaigns. I’m enthusiastic about the opportunity to take the next step in my career with such a reputable agency as One Track Marketing.

Since 2019 I’ve been working as part of the digital marketing team for a creative, boutique advertising agency with a reputation for digital innovation. I’ve project managed all stages of campaign development and delivery, and developed particular skills and experience in digital strategy. A recent project for a household-name online electrical retailer was awarded the 2023 Digital Marketing Innovation Award for Customer Engagement. I’ve also had the chance to work as part of the digital pitch team, presenting to prospective clients and helping to win business worth £2 million.

Thank you for considering my application. I’m enthusiastic about the prospect of working for One Track and would welcome the opportunity to discuss this role in more detail. I’ve attached my CV below for review. Please contact me if you have any questions about my application, or if you’d like to arrange an interview. I look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards,
Simone Reynolds

E: SimoneReynolds99@example.com
T: 07237 285391

Frequently asked questions about emailing your CV

1. When should I email my CV?

The earlier you send your CV in the window for applications, the better. Take note of the closing date for applications and make sure you send it well before the deadline. Emailing your CV on certain days of the week may be more effective than others. Generally, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays are the most effective days to email on. Consider sending your CV at an optimal time of day, such as between 9am and 11am, or between 1pm and 2pm. If you’re unable to send your CV email between those times, most email providers offer a scheduling service

2. Should I write the cover letter in the email?

It’s up to you whether you write your cover letter in the body of your email, or attach it to the email alongside your CV. Writing your cover letter in the body of your email gives it immediacy, as the recipient will see it as soon as they open the email. On the other hand, writing your cover letter separately gives you the opportunity to create a formal cover letter with a professional design and layout. This may be more effective at holding the attention of the reader than an email, which usually uses plain text and a familiar layout.

3. What kind of email address should I use?

You can send your CV email using any free personal email provider, such as Gmail. However, it’s important to make sure the email address itself looks professional and reflects well on you. Don’t use an email address containing your nickname, for example.

If you’re setting up an email address to send job applications from, try for a combination of your first name and last name, or your initials and your last name. If all available combinations are taken, try adding in dates or years, such as ‘Jonathan.F.Taylor.1998@example.com’.

4. How should I name the CV that I attach to the email?

Take care with the file name of your CV. It will be easier for the employer to save it on their computer and find at a later date if it already has a clear file name. Use a descriptive name, such as your full name, the date or year, followed by ‘CV’. For example, you could name your document ‘Abigail Hammond_March 2024_CV’. Save your CV as a PDF for security and accessibility.

Key Takeaways for Sending Your CV by Email

If you’re sending your CV by email, make sure your email is clear, direct and to the point. Strike a friendly yet professional tone with your email text and direct the reader to access your attached CV and, if you’re including one, your cover letter. You can make sure your CV makes an equally positive impression as your email by using a well-designed CV layout. CVwizard has a wealth of CV templates and examples to help you craft an impactful CV. Sign up today to follow the quick and easy process of creating a beautiful, professional CV.