How to Send an Email to Apply for a Job
- 1). Find a job opening matching your background and qualifications. Check a variety of sources for leads--online job sites, company websites and referrals from friends. Engage in social networking through Facebook, Linkedin, Plaxo and other sites.
- 2). Read the job description carefully. Check again to be sure that you are qualified. Spend some time researching the company, even if you're already familiar with it. Use the Internet to search for news articles about the company, such as its financial performance or plans for expansion. Learning about the company will help you avoid sending an email with basic questions that are readily available on the company's website or elsewhere online.
- 3). Look for an email address in the job description, along with with a clear invitation to contact that person about the opening. According to the Career Services Department at Virginia Tech University, you should not find email addresses from other sources and randomly apply.
- 4). Conduct an Internet search on the email address. You may be able to match up the email address with the name of a company employee and her title. This could help you make the email more personable and show that you have some knowledge about the company.
- 5). Write a draft of your email correspondence. Address the recipient by name or, if you do not have a name, begin with "Dear Sir or Madam." Carefully check your grammar and spelling. Get help from someone with writing skills if you are weak in that area. Your email should be clear and concise. Follow the instructions you found with the job description and attach any requested information, such as a cover letter and resume.
- 6). Make a final check of all your correspondence, including the attachments. Use your email program to send the email.
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