E-mail application checklist: don’t press send without it
At this stage in the recruitment cycle it’s likely that you’ll be submitting your job or work experience applications to graduate employers directly via e-mail. It’s very important to be careful about this initial contact, as mistakes at this stage could mean your application is automatically rejected. In a highly competitive jobs market, recruiters are unlikely to give you the benefit of the doubt.
Essential tips for e-mail job, work experience and internship applications
Make sure your e-mail has a compelling and relevant subject line. Don’t leave the subject line blank: let the recipient know what to expect. You could include the job reference number, for example, Vacancy – ED123_PT trainee accountant.
Write a message in the body of the e-mail. Recruiters often ask you to e-mail your covering letter and CV, in which case you can paste your letter into the e-mail, with your contact details as a signature at the end, and also include the letter as an attachment. Check the job advertisement to make sure you haven’t missed any specific instructions.
Use e-mail professionally. Don’t be too casual or familiar. Use an employer’s title and surname rather than first name, eg Dear Mr James. If in doubt, err on the side of caution. It’s best to be formal, just as it’s always wise to dress smartly for an interview.
Give e-mail attachments obvious and relevant filenames. These could include your name and a description, eg Joe Bloggs_covering letter.doc.
Check your punctuation, grammar and spelling. Make sure the caps lock is off, but capitalise personal pronouns and appropriate proper nouns. Don’t lapse into text speak.
Make sure your e-mail address doesn’t rule you out. A potential employer might take your application less seriously if it comes from alelover@hotmail.com.
Sign off properly. Messages sent to a named individual should be signed off with ‘Yours sincerely’ and your name and surname.
Make your contact details easy to find. Include them under your name at the end of your e-mail message.
- Covering letter essentials for graduate vacancies
- Making a speculative job application
- Writing tips for graduates: how to communicate with recruiters
Posted by Alison_TARGETjobs on 22 June 2010
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