Email Subject Line tips for Job Applications and Resumes

These days, much of your job search is likely conducted via email. But employers receive thousands of emails a day, and many times, whether an email gets opened depends entirely on its subject line.

The subject line is one of the first things people see while checking their inboxes. The decision to open—or delete—an email is made based mainly on the subject line and the sender. Since the subject line is your first impression, you want to be sure that your writing is clear and free of errors.

 

Below are some tips to help:

Include the job title

In an email applying for a job, use the job title as the subject line, so the employer knows what position you are interested in. That helps busy hiring managers who are recruiting for multiple positions see at a glance which job you are applying for. Stating the job title is also useful in case there is an automated filter that categorizes the hiring manager’s email. With the right subject line, you’ll be sure that your application is placed in the appropriate folder to be seen in a timely manner.

 

Keep it short and specific

The more specific you can make your subject line, the easier it will be for the recipient to categorize your email quickly and respond appropriately. Be as succinct as possible, as lengthy subject lines may be cut off, and could lose the most important information. Make it relevant by including keywords related to your reason for writing.

Examples of subject line:

1. Application for Data Analyst—Peter Oke

2. Finance manager Application - Sarah Alaba

3. Accountant: Job application

 

4. Job application—Financial analyst— Bukola Akomolafe, MBA