💻Mastering the Art of Emailing Your Resume/CV📱
Follow These Six Steps!
These steps focus on the technical and professional elements of sending a job application via email.
1. Carefully Review Any Instructions
Before sending your resume, always read the job listing and email instructions thoroughly. Employers may have specific directions regarding the file format, subject line, or additional documents required (e.g., portfolio,
references).
Example: If a job ad requests "Please send your CV in PDF format with the subject line 'Application for Marketing Manager – [Your Name]'", be sure to follow these instructions exactly. Failing to follow these
guidelines could result in your email being overlooked or disregarded.
2. Save Your Resume in the Preferred Format
Many employers request resumes in a specific file format to ensure compatibility with their systems. PDF is widely preferred because it preserves the formatting and layout of your resume, regardless of the device or software the
recipient uses.
Example: If you send your resume as a Word document (.docx) but the employer asks for a PDF, your resume could appear differently on the employer’s end, which could negatively impact how your application is
perceived. A PDF ensures your formatting remains intact.
3. Craft an Appropriate Subject Line
The subject line of your email is your first opportunity to make an impression. It should clearly indicate that you are applying for a job and specify the role you're applying for.
Example: If you're applying for a software engineering position, a strong subject line would be: "Application for Software Engineer Position – [Your Name]". This makes it immediately clear to the hiring
manager what the email is about, saving them time and making your email easy to locate.
4. Assess the Need for a Cover Letter
Some job postings require a cover letter, while others do not. If a cover letter is required, ensure that it is well-crafted and tailored to the specific job. If it is not required, decide whether sending one could enhance your
application. A well-written cover letter can set you apart from other applicants.
Example: If the job posting specifically says "No cover letters," avoid attaching one. However, if the posting asks for one, or if you're unsure, it's better to include a concise and personalized cover letter that
explains why you are a great fit for the role.
5. Sign Off with a Professional Signature
Your email signature should include your full name, phone number, LinkedIn profile, or any other professional contact method. This ensures that the employer has all the necessary contact details to reach you without having to search
for them.
Example: A professional email signature might look like this:
6. Proofread for Perfection
Before sending your email and attached resume, always proofread for any grammatical or spelling errors. A polished email shows attention to detail and professionalism, while errors can create a negative impression.
Example: Check for common errors like typos in the job title or your name, such as accidentally writing "Marketing Manger" instead of "Marketing Manager." A tool like Grammarly or a simple read-through can catch
these mistakes before submission.
Top #5 Resume Writing Tips for 2023!
These tips focus on how to structure and format your resume to appeal to modern recruiters in 2023.
1. Keep It Concise
Recruiters typically spend only a few seconds reviewing each resume, so it’s important to keep yours concise and to the point. Highlight the most important and impactful information. Aim for a one-page resume if you’re early in your
career and two pages if you have extensive experience.
Example: Instead of listing every single job you've had, focus on the roles most relevant to the position you're applying for. If you're applying for a graphic design role, emphasize your design experience and omit
irrelevant jobs like your summer retail job, unless it involved skills like customer service or teamwork that could apply to the role.
2. Showcase Your Achievements
Employers want to see what you've accomplished, not just a list of duties. Whenever possible, quantify your achievements with numbers, percentages, or specific examples. This demonstrates the impact you've made in previous roles.
Example: Instead of saying "Responsible for increasing sales," write "Increased sales by 25% over a six-month period, exceeding the company target by 10%." This gives employers a clear, measurable understanding of
your contribution.
3. Tailor Your Resume
Customize your resume for each job application by aligning your skills and experience with the specific requirements of the job description. This shows the employer that you've taken the time to understand the role and its needs.
Example: If the job posting emphasizes teamwork and project management, make sure your resume highlights any collaborative projects you've worked on and any leadership roles you’ve taken in managing teams. You could
adjust your job descriptions to reflect those skills, like: “Led a cross-functional team of 5 to deliver a project on time and under budget.”
4. Harness the Power of Language
Use strong, action-oriented language and industry-specific keywords to demonstrate your expertise. This not only helps your resume stand out to hiring managers but also increases the chances of passing through Applicant Tracking
Systems (ATS), which scan resumes for keywords.
Example: Instead of generic phrases like “Responsible for managing projects,” use more specific, dynamic language like “Spearheaded the development and implementation of marketing campaigns resulting in a 20%
increase in customer engagement.” Using action verbs like “spearheaded,” “achieved,” or “orchestrated” makes your experience sound more impactful.
5. Embrace a Modern Design
A well-designed resume helps you stand out in a crowded job market. Use clean, professional fonts and a modern layout that guides the reader's eye through the most important sections. Avoid clutter by using white space effectively.
However, steer clear of overly fancy designs or graphics that could distract from your qualifications or confuse Applicant Tracking Systems.
Example: A contemporary design might use bold section headers, bullet points for clarity, and a simple yet professional font like Arial or Calibri. An example layout might look like this:
By focusing on these six steps for emailing your resume and these five modern resume-writing tips, you'll be setting yourself up for a stronger, more professional job application. Both the email and the resume are crucial components of your first impression with potential employers.
