What to Write in an Email When Sending a Resume

The template:

Subject: Application for [Role], [Your Name]

Hi [Recruiter Name],

I'm applying for the [Role] at [Company] and have attached my resume.

One reason I think I'm a fit: [specific reason, a number, project, or skill match from the JD].

Happy to share more or set up a call. Thanks for considering.

Best, [Your Name] [Phone] | [LinkedIn URL]

That's it. 3-5 sentences.

What to include

• Subject line: Role + your name. Specific.
• Greeting: Recruiter name if you have it; "Hi Hiring Team" if not.
• What you're applying to.
• One specific reason you're a fit, concrete, not generic.
• Clear ask.
• Sign-off + contact info.

Resume file naming

firstname-lastname-resume.pdf, clean, identifiable.

What to skip

• Long backstory
• Generic flattery
• Restating the resume in the email body
• "I hope this finds you well"

When the email is the cover letter

Many recruiters prefer the cover letter in the email body instead of an attachment. If the application doesn't ask for a separate cover letter, write it inline, same length and structure as a regular cover letter, just emailed.

The bigger pattern

A short, specific email beats a long generic one. Recruiters scan first and read what's tight.

Sorce auto-applies for you with tailored cover letter on every job, free swipes every day, AI agent submits.

Email when sending resume template

Hi [Name], attached is my resume for the [Role] position. My background in [specific skill] maps closely to [specific requirement]. Happy to share anything else that would be helpful.

If the employer asks for a cover letter too, generate a short draft with the AI cover letter generator.

For more: how to write a job application email, professional email example, how to make a cover letter.