Finding a good employee is always a headache for any business because the success of any department depends on the competence of applicants. An integral part of accepting a candidate for a job is the job application email, and it would be disappointing if it were missed because of a nondescript subject line. It’s time to talk about how to make your job application email subject lines stand out in a crowded employer inbox. Without further ado, let’s get started.
Why do subject lines matter?
The subject line is the first thing the recipient sees in the mailbox, greatly influencing whether the email is opened. Statistically, 47% of recipients decide whether or not to open an email based on the subject line.
Furthermore, the email subject line is also the first impression your employer will have of you. It must be correctly written and free of spelling and grammatical errors. Finally, the subject line is an opportunity to introduce yourself. Since the recipient may not yet know your name, clearly stating your name in the subject line can increase the chances of your email being read.
Tips to create perfect subject lines for job application emails
Creating the right subject line that will stand out in the employer’s inbox requires the right approach. Following these tips will help you achieve this.
Include the purpose of your email
In order for the hiring manager to immediately identify the purpose of your email, you should add a term such as “job application” or the job title in the subject line. This way, your application will be delivered to the appropriate folder, increasing the chances of being read.
Clarity and specificity
It's essential for the subject line of your job application email to include the title of the position you're applying for. This ensures clarity and helps the recruiter immediately understand the purpose of your email.
Add keywords to your subject line
Keywords are a convenient tool for sorting incoming emails in inboxes and are highly likely to be used by employers. Keywords such as “job candidate” or a job ID in your job application subject line will make your email more easily detectable by the search filter.
Don’t forget to add your name
Adding your name is extremely important as it helps the recruiter to more easily identify your email. The absence of a name in the subject line only complicates the process since the recruiter needs to open the email and read it in order to learn the sender’s name.
Benefit from referrals and follow-ups
If you were recommended for a position by someone from this company, indicate this in the subject line. Referring to someone in your subject line helps to establish trust between you and the recipient. A recommendation from an employee will also increase the chances of a successful hire.
Proofread your subject line and email
Having spelling errors or simple typos will not be advantageous to you in the eyes of the employer. Carefully proofread the body and subject line of the email several times before sending.
Keeping email subject lines concise and visible
It is recommended to limit the length of your email subject line to under 60 characters. This ensures the subject line is fully visible in most email clients, particularly on mobile devices where screen space is more restricted. A concise subject line also aids in quickly communicating the purpose of your email, enhancing readability and immediate comprehension.
Use personalization to stand out and look professional
Email personalization is a great way to boost the chances that your email will be opened. Some personal details associated with a job application may attract the reader’s attention. Below are some examples:
- if you know the recipient’s name, you can write it in the subject line of the email;
- if you have essential qualifications or certifications required for the job, you can mention them;
- if you have the academic degrees required for this position, such as an MBA, Ph.D., or BA, you may add abbreviations after your name.
Examples of email subject lines for job applications
Now that you know the secrets of creating stand-out subject lines, we have collected 10 examples of job application email subject lines. In these examples, we will include random information that may not be relevant to you, so feel free to customize these subject lines to meet your job application needs.
- Application for Copywriter — John Doe — Oakland, California
- Jane Doe’s Interest in PHP Programmer in Jackson, Michigan
- Applying for SEO Specialist Opportunity — John Doe — San Luis, Colorado
- John Doe’s Application for PR Manager in Palm Springs, California
- Seeking HR Manager Role — Jane Doe in San Francisco, California
- Jane Doe’s Candidacy for IT Analyst — Microsoft Certified
- Job application — PPC Specialist, Jane Doe, Google Ads Search Certification
- Applying for Project Manager in Orlando, Florida — Jane Doe’s Interest
- Expressing Interest in Marketing Team Lead — Philadelphia, Pennsylvania — John Doe’s Application
- John Doe’s Application: DevOps Specialist in Englewood, Colorado
Interview Expert
Good examples of subject lines in my opinion:
- Overview of my CV. Vacancy name. Candidate name
- Resume for your consideration for the (position name)
It should be immediately clear from the subject line what is inside the email.
It is also necessary to recall examples of how you shouldn’t do when creating your application email subject lines. Some examples are from real cases:
- You need me. Attached my CV. Waiting for a response,
- Job application because I need a job
Another "sin" of job seekers is that you don't need to write "urgent" in the subject line because all emails are important to us, and we respond to them as they are uploaded and to each in turn. However, if there is no answer for more than 2–3 days, you can remind yourself.
Examples of job application emails with catchy subject lines
In order to be fully equipped as you search for your dream job, we decided to compile examples of job application emails along with suitable subject lines. These are ready-made templates that you can use by simply inserting the necessary information into the marked fields.
Example 1
Subject line: John Doe, Application for Marketing Manager Role
Dear Hiring Team,
I am writing to express my strong interest in the [job title] at your company, as advertised on your website. With my extensive experience in digital marketing strategy and a passion for innovative solutions, I believe that I would be a valuable addition to your team.
Over the years, I have successfully managed and executed [responsibilities] to achieve exceptional results. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your company’s mission and continue setting industry standards.
I am eager to discuss how my skills and experiences can benefit your organization. Attached is my resume for your reference.
[Link to your resume]
Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
[Your name, link to LinkedIn]
Example 2
Subject line: Jane Doe, Application for [Job Title] Opportunity
Dear Hiring Team,
I hope that this email finds you well. I am writing to express my interest in the [job title] opportunity at your organization, which I discovered through [source]. With my passion for [industry skills] and a track record of [your achievements or experience], I am eager to explore how I can contribute to your team’s success.
Throughout my professional journey, I have consistently [highlight key accomplishments] and honed my skills in [specific skillset]. I am confident that my [your skills and experience] will enable me to make meaningful contributions to your projects.
Please find enclosed my resume, which provides further insight into my qualifications and experiences. I welcome the chance to discuss how my background aligns with your company’s objectives and how I can help drive [Company’s goals or focus].
Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the potential to join your team and contribute to the continued success of [Company name].
Sincerely,
[Your name, link to LinkedIn]
Example 3
Subject line: John Doe, Referred by Lara Barrett
Dear Hiring Team,
I am writing in regard to the open [position] at [Company name]. My former colleague and close friend recommended that I contact you directly about this position. We worked together for three years at [Company name], so s/he can attest to my skills.
In my position as [position] at [Company name], I performed [responsibilities]. This work helped [your achievements and the value you brought to the company].
Prior to [Company name], I was [position] at [Company name]. In this role, my [responsibilities] included…
I think that my mix of [skills] would be an asset to your company and would appreciate an opportunity to discuss the role and how my skills could benefit your company. Thank you very much for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your name, link to LinkedIn]
Advice from our specialists
Interview Expert
Examples of writing subject lines and emails are always good, but the maximum effect will be if you receive useful advice from recruiting specialists. We asked our amazing recruiters for some tips on how to create the kind of emails and impactful subject lines that will help you land your dream job.
The email's subject line should briefly descibe what is inside the email. It is also perfect when the candidate adds a summary about himself in the body of the email. For example, how much experience is there in this or that technology (if we are talking about technical positions).
Be sure to attach your CV, ideally have a LinkedIn profile, and share a link to it. Last but not least, it's essential to check the links so that the CV file has open access and the links to it and LinkedIn work and lead to the correct pages.
Interview Expert
In addition to the elements already mentioned, it is a good practice to add call to action to job application emails. For example:
- "I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my experience and skills align with the needs of your team. Please feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience to arrange an interview."
- "I am eager to further explain how I can contribute to your company's success. I invite you to reach out to me to schedule a detailed discussion or interview."
- "I am looking forward to the possibility of discussing my application in more detail. Please contact me to arrange a time that is convenient for an interview."
This way you will show your professionalism, desire to discuss cooperation and encourage the employer to quickly start contacting you.
Wrapping up
Creating a good subject line for a job application email is a simple process once you know a few tricks. A clear email purpose, personalization, keywords, and thorough proofreading are essential tools in creating professional subject lines for job application emails. You can also use our templates to construct your emails.
Together with Stripo, you can use these tips and create your email from scratch, making it professional and pleasing to the eye.
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