How to write email subject lines for job applications (25+ examples)
Are you struggling to craft the perfect subject line for your job application email? The mail.com blog has professional tips and examples that will help your email stand out in a crowded inbox – and land the job of your dreams.
Keep reading to learn how to write compelling subject lines for your job hunt.
By Alyssa SchmittA compelling subject line for your email can help you land that job interview
Why is the subject line of your application email important?
As so often in life, first impressions can make a big difference. The subject line of your email is the first thing the hiring manager will see – and it can determine whether your message gets opened or ignored. This is why your job application subject line should highlight your professionalism and suitability for the job.
Your application subject line has become even more important because many companies now use filtering systems and artificial intelligence (AI) to look for specific keywords in incoming applications. So, if the email header doesn’t clearly communicate the position you are applying for, your application may never even be seen by the hiring manager.
A strong job email subject line should:
Catch the hiring manager’s attention
Clearly communicate your purpose
Ensure your email doesn’t get lost in a full inbox
Good to know: No matter the situation, a well-written email subject line will help increase the odds of your email being read. Find out how in our explainer: How to write effective email subject lines
How to write a subject line when applying for a job
Submitting online applications vs. emailing resumes or inquiries to people
First and foremost, when applying for jobs online, it’s essential to follow the instructions provided in the job listing. In many cases, you’ll be submitting your job application through an online portal, so an email subject heading might not be necessary.
However, if you’re emailing your resume and cover letter directly to a recruiter or hiring manager, a clear and concise subject line is essential. Tailor your approach based on the context:
Email in response to a specific job posting: Read the instructions carefully and include any reference numbers or specific keywords as required, e.g., “Application for [Job title], [reference number] – [Your name]”
Direct inquiry or referral: If you're not applying for a specific job posting or there are no specific application instructions, send your resume using a personalized email subject that reflects the role and your qualifications, e.g., “Experienced Marketing Manager CV, Linda Smythe”
Best practices for crafting your job application subject line
Refer to these ten steps to create a professional and catchy job-seeking email subject line:
1. Follow any specific instructions in the job listing
Some job postings provide specific instructions for the subject line, e.g., including the job title or a reference code. Following these instructions precisely not only ensures that the hiring manager will receive your email, but also demonstrates your ability to pay attention to details and follow directions.
Avoid lengthy or overly complex subject lines. If the subject is too long, it will appear cut off in the email list, so limit yourself to 50 characters. If you can keep it under 30 characters, even better – this is the usual cut-off on a mobile phone. A subject heading for a job application should also be clear and readable.
Example: “Application: Junior Accountant role - Linda Smythe”
3. Include your name for easy identification
Including your name helps personalize the email and makes it easier for the recipient to identify you without having to open the email. This is important if the recruiter needs to search for your application later in a full inbox.
Example: “Job application for Graphic Designer - John Smith”
4. Include the title of the job you’re applying for
If you are responding to a job posting, use the exact job title as listed. Mentioning the job title makes it easier for the recipient to categorize your application – and also makes it easier to find using search filters.
Example: “Application for Marketing Manager position #1234”
5. Use keywords from the job listing
Incorporate relevant keywords to align your email with the job requirements and improve searchability. This can be especially important if the HR department uses email filters or AI tools to sort incoming applications.
Example: “Experienced developer applying for Full-Stack Engineer opening”
6. Highlight a key skill, degree, or certification
Emphasize a skill or experience that makes you stand out. This can include relevant professional certifications or advanced degrees, especially if they are requirements listed in the job profile. Or if a certain number of years of experience are requested, you can include that information.
Example: “John Smith, CPA with 10+ years’ experience in accounting”
7. Mention a referral or mutual connection
If you were referred by someone within the company or a well-respected professional in your field, you can mention it in your subject line.
Example: “Referred by Jada Jones: Linda Smythe applying for Software Engineer role”
8. Avoid using all caps or excessive punctuation
Stick to proper capitalization and punctuation. All caps or use of punctuation such as exclamation marks can make your job inquiry subject line look unprofessional. Even worse, it could cause your email to land in the spam folder instead of the inbox.
Example: “Job application for HR Specialist position, John Smith”
9. Make your subject line engaging, but not overly creative
While creativity sometimes helps you stand out, being overly quirky or informal can work against you in your job search. When writing your subject line, you should prioritize professionalism.
Example: "John Smith: Experienced marketer seeking new opportunity"
10. Ensure the subject line is error-free
We all know it’s essential to proofread important emails, but it’s easy to overlook a typo in your subject line. Double-check for spelling and grammatical mistakes and proper formatting. An error-free subject line reflects your attention to detail.
Example: "Job application for Data Scientist opening – Linda Smythe
Mistakes to avoid when writing an email subject line for a job application
Now that we've looked at some examples of professional job application email subject lines, let's take a look at five common mistakes that can cause your application to get passed over in a crowded inbox.
Making your subject line too vague or generic: A general subject line (e.g., “Job application” or “Resume”) does not clearly communicate your intent and may cause your email to be overlooked or eliminated by an automatic filter. Always include specific information, such as your name and the job title or reference number.
Forgetting to include the job title: If you don't include the job title in the subject line, it can be difficult for the recruiter to know what position you're applying for without opening the email. It also makes it hard for search filters to correctly sort your email.
Using jargon or informal language: Overly casual or gimmicky language can come across as unprofessional and make your email stand out in a negative way. Stick to a professional tone and clearly communicate the purpose of your email.
Adding unnecessary information: If you try to cram in too much information, your subject line will be confusing or hard to read. Don’t forget that any information at the end of a long subject line is likely to be cut off in the inbox list. Keep your subject line short and place the most important information at the beginning of the subject line.
Use an unprofessional email address for your job application. Your email address appears next to the subject line in the hiring manager’s inbox, so it’s important that it also conveys a serious impression. Your job search email address should include your first and last name, not a hobby or childhood nickname. Read more here: How a professional email address helps your job search
How to write a subject line for a job application follow-up email
Sending a follow-up email is a great way to show that you are still interested in the position and keep your application fresh in the hiring manager’s mind. It’s also a chance to ask about the status of your application and restate your enthusiasm for the position.
When following up on your job application, it’s important not to seem pushy or overly anxious. So, it’s important to keep the subject line polite and concise. Here are two examples of professional subject lines for a follow-up email:
Follow-up on Sales Associate application - Linda Smythe
Checking in on my application for Senior Project Manager role
Including the job title and your name in the follow-up email helps the recruiter quickly identify your application. However, you should not simply repeat the subject line from your original email, or the messages could get mixed up.
Follow-up: [Your name]’s application for [Job Title] role
Following up on my recent [Job Title] application - [Your Name]
FAQ: Subject Lines for Job Application Email
What does “subject” mean on a job application?
A subject line is a line in an email or online form that briefly summarizes the purpose of your message. It includes important information such as the job title, your name, or other requested information so that the recipient can quickly see the purpose of your email.
What is the best subject line for a job application?
The best email subject line for a job inquiry is clear, professional, and specific to the job you are applying for. It typically includes the job title, your name, and sometimes a reference number or keyword from the job listing, e.g.: “Application for Senior Analyst position #623: John Smith”.
What is a good subject line for sending a resume?
A good email subject line for sending your CV clearly states your intent and includes specific information, such as the job title or a key qualification, e.g.: “Attached: Linda Smythe’s resume for Marketing Manager role”.
How do you write the subject line of an email for a cold job inquiry?
For a speculative job inquiry, the subject line should be both eye-catching and professional. Mention a key qualification as well as your interest in a specific company, position, or field, e.g.: “Marketing Manager with 15+ years of experience seeks opportunity at Horizon Homes”.
What is an example of a good email for a job application?
A good job application email is concise, professional, and tailored to the job opening. In addition to a professional subject line, it should include a brief introduction, a statement about the position you are applying for and why you are a good match, and a closing that invites further communication.
Now you know how to write the perfect subject line for your email application! Following these tips can increase your chances of standing out and making a lasting impression on potential employers.
Best of luck – and if you need a new email address for your job search, why not create an email account with mail.com today?
