by Tony Balthazar

Created on: June 08, 2010

If you are looking for a job, you may be applying for jobs online. In some cases, you may be asked to submit a resume and cover letter via email versus sending on via USPS. In this case, you cannot really use a standard cover letter that you would send in the mail. Here are some tips for writing email cover letters:

Always address the person properly - There is a better chance if you are emailing a cover letter and resume that you know who they are being sent to. Make sure that you address the person properly, an email is no reason for you to be informal;

Reference the job in subject line - Do not assume that the person receiving your cover letter and resume knows what job you are posting for.  Reference the job name (and number if applicable) in the subject line if your email;

Email does not mean informal - As mentioned earlier, your cover letter should not be informal. Check your spelling and grammar before you send the cover letter;

Mention your resume - Make sure you include the fact that your resume is attached. Include highlights (do not copy large parts of your resume) that make you uniquely qualified for the position you are applying for;

Ask for confirmation of receipt - Ask the person receiving your resume and email cover letter to acknowledge their receipt via email.  You may elect to do a "return receipt requested" but remember that requires the recipient to acknowledge that receipt;

Set a date for follow up - Just because you are sending a cover letter via email does not mean that you should overlook the obvious.  Define a specific date when you will contact the person (preferably by phone) to follow up on your application. This will give them a sense of your interest in the position as well.

Always close properly - Do not forget to thank them for reviewing your resume and acknowledge again when you will follow up.  Close by stating you are looking forward to hearing back from them.

Summary

While email cover letters are becoming more acceptable, they still require many of the same components as a standard snail mailed cover letter. Writing an email cover letter requires the same attention to detail and much of the same language.  Do not be fooled into thinking that just because a cover letter is to be emailed that it is less formal.

Learn more about this author, Tony Balthazar.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.