Cover letters for email job applications · Feb 4, 09:11 AM

First impressions mean a lot to your success in any area of your life. This is even more important when you are applying for a new job.

You know what skills and qualities you have but how do you make yourself stand out from the crowd? Human Resources offices receive hundreds of applications following a single advertisement so how do you ensure that yours gets to the top of the shortlist?

These days the majority of job applications are summited via the Internet by email. Unfortunately, many people do not bother to attach a formal covering letter. Some do not even give a brief introduction about themselves and just say “Here is my CV – please call me”. This is a big mistake!

You should always include a cover letter as an attachment along with your CV or resume. It will be read by the selection board members / managers when you are short listed for interview.

These people will probably not get to read the contents of your email, and so sending along a cover letter will help you stand out from the other applicants at this critical stage.

Remember too to write a clear subject line with the word “application” and the job reference number. This will ensure your job application is handled correctly and read by the correct people.

The body of your email should include a short paragraph about your application i.e. “I am writing to apply for the position of xx ref number xx advertised in xx on xx”.

You should also include a short paragraph about yourself, your skills and how you can be contacted. Do not write long paragraphs, though, as long emails will probably not be read. Bulleted lists are a good idea for emails, so use them if needed.

In summary, when you send in a job application by email you should:

*Write a clear subject line with the word “application” and job ref number

*Include a paragraph or two explaining your application and about yourself

*Attach your CV to the email

*Attach your covering letter to the email.

Good Luck! We hope you get the job of your dreams!

The easiest and most successful way to apply for a job is to send the company a professionally written CV (resume), with perfect English, and a covering letter that stands out from the crowd. HKEnglish.com now provides this customized service in Hong Kong.

For more information on their Professional CV (resume) and Covering Letter writing services click here

— Charles

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