Hiring managers receive hundreds of job applications daily. If your email subject line isn’t engaging, your resume might never get opened. Think about your inbox—do you open every email you receive? Probably not. The same applies to recruiters, making it crucial to craft subject lines that stand out.
Your email subject line is the first impression you make before a hiring manager even sees your resume. A strong, well-crafted subject line increases your chances of getting noticed, while a vague or unprofessional one might lead to your email being ignored.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through best practices for writing email subject lines when submitting a resume, with expert tips, real-world examples, and actionable insights.
How to Write an Effective Email Subject Line for a Job Application
1. Keep It Short and Concise
Hiring managers skim through emails quickly. If your subject line is too long, it might get cut off, especially on mobile devices. Keep it under 50 characters and make it immediately clear that you’re applying for a job.
Examples:
- “Applying for Marketing Manager – John Smith”
- “Resume: Software Engineer Position – Jane Doe”
- “Job Application – Graphic Designer, NYC – Alex Brown”
2. Include Referral Information (If Applicable)
Referrals can significantly boost your chances of landing an interview. If someone referred you, mention their name in the subject line to grab attention.
Examples:
- “Referred by Jane Doe – Resume for Sales Associate Role”
- “John Smith Suggested I Apply – Resume for HR Manager”
3. Follow the Job Listing Instructions
Some job postings specify how to format your application email. If there are guidelines, follow them exactly. This shows attention to detail and professionalism.
Example:
- “Job ID 245 – Product Manager Application – Sam Taylor”
4. Maintain a Professional Tone
Avoid casual language, emoji’s, or unnecessary abbreviations. Keep your subject line professional and relevant to the job.
Avoid:
- “Hey! Need a Job – Check My Resume”
- “Plz Hire Me! Marketing Genius Here”
Use:
- “Marketing Coordinator Application – David Lee”
5. Proofread Before Sending
A subject line with typos can instantly ruin your chances. Double-check spelling, punctuation, and formatting before hitting send.
Common mistake: “Manger” instead of “Manager”
Example:
- Incorrect: “Applying for Sales Manager Role – Emily Clark”
- Correct: “Sales Manager Application – Emily Clark”
6. Highlight Your Credentials (If Relevant)
If you have a certification, qualification, or industry expertise that strengthens your job application, consider adding it to the subject line.
Examples:
- “Jane Doe, CPA – Applying for Senior Accountant Role”
- “Google Certified Digital Marketer – Resume Submission”
- “AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Application for Cloud Engineer”
7. Use a Professional Email Address
Your subject line works best when paired with a professional email address. Avoid addresses like “FunAllTheTime@email.com” or “ReadyForFriday@email.com.” Instead, use your first and last name or a professional variation.
Examples:
- “JohnDoeCPA@email.com”
- “JaneSmithMarketing@email.com”
Your email subject line is a small but powerful tool in your job search. A well-crafted subject line ensures your resume gets noticed and increases the likelihood of landing an interview. Keep it concise, professional, and relevant. Follow job posting instructions, include referrals when possible, and always proofread before sending.
A great subject line is just the first step. Ensure your resume is polished, tailored, and compelling to make the best impression possible. Good luck with your job search!
