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How To Email A Resume

By Chris Kolmar
Sep. 4, 2023
Last Modified and Fact Checked on: Jan. 21, 2026

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How to Email a Resume: A 2026 Guide

Emailing a resume remains a crucial step for job seekers in 2026, yet it can be more challenging than it seems. Striking the right balance between professionalism and brevity is essential to make a positive impression on recruiters. Whether you’re responding to a job posting or initiating a cold email to your dream employer, this guide offers valuable strategies to help your resume get noticed.

Key Takeaways:

  • Always use a professional email address when sending your resume.

  • Respond to potential employers within 12 to 24 hours of receiving their email.

  • Customize your resume for each job application and incorporate keywords from the job description.

How To Email A Resume (With Examples)

How to Send Your Resume via Email

To send your resume to a prospective employer, simplicity is key. Begin with a professional greeting, clearly state the purpose of your email, and conclude with a note of gratitude and your contact information.

  1. Read the Instructions Carefully. Always review the job posting thoroughly. Many job seekers overlook specific instructions and miss out on opportunities by simply clicking the “apply now” button without reading the details.

  2. Use a Clear Subject Line. A concise and clear subject line is essential. Recruiters often sift through numerous applications, so include your name and the position title. Here are several examples:

    Resume Email Subject Line Examples

    • Jane Smith – Junior Web Content Creator Position – Resume

    • Jane Smith Resume — Junior Web Content Creator Position

    • Resume of Jane Smith for the Junior Web Content Creator Position

  3. Greet the Recipient. Avoid the outdated phrase “To Whom It May Concern.” Instead, personalize your greeting by finding the recipient’s name. If you can’t find it, address them by their title or simply use a general greeting:

    Resume Email Greeting Examples

    • Dear Hiring Manager,

    • Dear Recruiter,

    • Good morning,

    • Good afternoon,

  4. Write Your Opening Paragraph. Use the first paragraph to introduce yourself and express your interest in the job. Be sure to mention the job title and where you found the posting.

    Resume Email Opening Paragraph Example

    I am very interested in applying for the Junior Web Content Creator position listed on Zippia.

  5. Craft Your Body Paragraph. In the next paragraph, briefly highlight your relevant experience that aligns with the job. Alternatively, you can keep it concise and inform the recruiter that your resume and cover letter are attached.

    Resume Email Body Paragraph Example

    I have two years of experience in writing copy, marketing emails, and blog posts, as well as SEO. This experience enabled me to increase my employer’s website traffic by 25% over four months. I believe this background makes me a strong candidate for this role, and I’ve attached my resume for your consideration.

  6. Close the Email. Thank the hiring manager for their time and invite them to reach out if they have questions or require additional information.

    Resume Email Closing Example

    If you have any additional questions, please feel free to contact me. Thank you again for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

  7. Sign Off Professionally. Include a professional email signature that contains your name, contact information, and a link to your LinkedIn profile to provide a fuller picture of your professional background.

    Resume Email Signature Example

    Sincerely,
    Jane Smith
    linkedin.com/in/janesmith
    jsmith@email.com
    781-555-3214

  8. Attach Your Resume in the Right Format. Always attach your resume as a PDF or Word document instead of copying it into the email body. Use a professional naming convention for your files, such as:

    Example Resume File Names

    Also, check if the job description specifies a particular file format or naming convention, and adhere to it.

Examples of How to Send Your Resume

Here are some example emails you might send along with your resume to a potential employer:

  1. Example Resume Email #1

    Dear Hiring Manager,
    I am very interested in applying for the [Name of Position] position listed on [Name of the Website Where You Found the Job Posting].

    Attached you’ll find my resume and cover letter. If you have any additional questions, please feel free to contact me. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
    Sincerely,
    [Your Name]
    [Your LinkedIn Profile]
    [Your Email Address]
    [Your Number]

  2. Example Resume Email #2:

    Dear Mr./Ms. [Surname],
    My name is [Your Name], and I would like to express my interest in the [Name of Position] position listed on your company’s website.

    I have long admired your company’s values and achievements. I am excited about the opportunity to work at [Name of Company] and collaborate with such a talented team. My resume and cover letter are attached as per your request. I hope to be considered for this position.
    Please let me know if you have any questions or need further information.
    Thank you for your time and consideration.
    Regards,
    [Your Name]
    [Your LinkedIn Profile]
    [Your Email Address]
    [Your Number]

  3. Example Resume Email #3:

    Dear Recruiter,
    I would like to express my interest in the [Name of Position] in the [Name of Department] that was posted last week on your company’s webpage.

    Attached are my resume and cover letter. If you need any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
    Thank you for your time.
    Sincerely,
    [Your Name]
    [Your LinkedIn Profile]
    [Your Email Address]
    [Your Number]

  4. Example Resume Email #4:

    Good morning,
    I found your posting for the [Name of Position] position on [Name of the Website Where You Found the Job Posting]. This seems like a fantastic opportunity!

    I believe my background in [mention strengths and qualifications] makes me an ideal candidate for this position. I have attached my resume and cover letter, and I would be thrilled if considered for the role.
    If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
    Sincerely,
    [Your Name]
    [Your LinkedIn Profile]
    [Your Email Address]
    [Your Number]

  5. Example Resume Email #5:

    Hello [First name, if on a first-name basis],
    I am very interested in applying for the [Name of Position]. I believe my skills and qualifications align well with your company’s needs.

    Please take a moment to review the attached documents, including my resume and cover letter. I would love to be considered for this position.
    Thank you for your time.
    Sincerely,
    [Your Name]
    [Your LinkedIn Profile]
    [Your Email Address]
    [Your Number]

  6. Example Resume Email #6:

    Good afternoon,
    I am applying for the role of [Name of Position] and have attached my resume and cover letter.

    My experience in [relevant experience] has prepared me well for this role, and I am excited about the possibility of contributing to your team.
    Thank you for your consideration. Please let me know if you have any questions.
    Sincerely,
    [Your Name]
    [Your LinkedIn Profile]
    [Your Email Address]
    [Your Number]

Tips for Emailing Your Resume to a Prospective Employer

Utilizing a professional email address, meticulously checking for typos, and responding promptly will help your email stand out to recruiters.

  1. Use a Professional Email Address. Avoid using outdated school emails. Instead, opt for a professional-sounding email, which reflects your seriousness as a candidate. Aim for formats that include your first and last name:

    Example Professional Email Addresses

    • joe.smith@email.com

    • jsmith@email.com

    • joesmith2@email.com

    Do not use your work email for job applications to other companies.

  2. Double-Check Everything. Ensure that your email and attached documents are error-free. Small mistakes can lead to missed opportunities.

  3. Respond in a Timely Manner. Always reply promptly to any communication from a recruiter. Ideally, respond within 12 to 24 hours of their initial message.

How to Email a Resume FAQ

  1. What should I write in the email when sending a resume?

    Your email should briefly explain why you are sending your resume, express gratitude, and include your contact information. Mention what you could contribute if hired, keeping your message concise.

  2. How do you say your resume is attached?

    You can say, “I’ve attached my resume.” Other variations include “I’ve attached my resume for your reference,” and “I have attached my resume as requested.” Ensure it flows naturally within the context of your email.

Final Thoughts

Before sending your email to prospective employers, carefully proofread for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure you’ve attached the correct documents. Following these steps will help you navigate the hiring process more effectively.

References

  1. Stanford Career Education – Resumes/Cover Letters

  2. Harvard University – Resumes and Cover Letters

  3. USAJOBS – What Should I Include in My Federal Resume?

Never miss an opportunity that’s right for you.

Author

Chris Kolmar

Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.

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