If you’re sending a resume by email, it’s easy to miss or neglect the subject line of your resume. You might generally consider making your subject line something kind of generic, like “resume enclosed” or “application for job X.” But is this really the best way to stand out from a crowd of applicants? What can you do in a short email subject line to actually get the attention of a hiring manager? Here are some great ideas that will help you achieve your goal.
Email Subject Line Tips
The goal of an email subject line should be to always get the attention of the hiring manager. After all, you can assume there are dozens of other people applying to the same role you are. The email subject line is a way for you to get noticed. However, you have to walk a fine line that balances professionalism with gaining the hiring manager’s attention.
The subject line should be clear and descriptive. You want the hiring manager to know why they should open the email. Make it warm and friendly but also succinct. To create a memorable impression that will entice the email reader to open your note first, follow some of these rules:
-
First, make sure the email you’re using to send the correspondence is professional. You don’t want the reader to think the email is spam. Use your first and last name in the email address (with some numbers and characters) to keep things professional.
-
Next, check the job description. Sometimes it will feature specific instructions about how to send a resume. Follow those instructions to the letter because to ensure your email won’t be tossed out.
-
Use keywords to identify the job you’re applying to. This could be the job title and job number, for example.
-
You can personalize a subject line by using the hiring manager’s first name if you know it. This could be risky in a big company, though, because you won’t be sure exactly who is going to open your email.
-
Don’t go over 60 characters on an email subject line. Anything more and it will be less likely the reviewer will even look at your email, which is the opposite of what you were trying for! Also, consider that the viewer may be using a cell phone. Long subject lines will almost certainly be truncated when being
-
Do not forget to proofread your subject line. One typo and your email may be discarded because the reviewer assumes you don’t have attention to detail.
-
Do not be cute or send anything less than a professional message.
-
Don’t capitalize every word or use caps lock to shout at the recipient.
Keeping all of these rules in mind, here are some sample subject lines that you can consider:
-
Assembly line position – (your name), resume
-
Job #416 – Referred by your employee, (employees name)
-
Job inquiry – (your name)
-
Resume for machine operator enclosed – (your name)
-
Application for (X job) from (your name)
-
Experienced light assembler job application – (your name)
If you’re in need of a job, start by contacting People Plus. We have established relationships with employers and can help you find exactly what you’re looking for. Call on us today.