Once you have your CV prepared and ready to go, it is now time to start sending it to potential recruiters. Whether you are applying for a job or sending a speculative application, it is important to create the right first impression. It is best to email your CV, instead of sending it via post, as most people like to have electronic access to applications.

How to address the recruiter

The first step is to ensure your email address is professional. If it’s currently along the lines of, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or something equally cringey, you should consider changing it. If you are applying for a job, you should send your email to the email address they have specified. However, if you are sending a speculative CV, you might want to try and direct it to the hiring manager. If you are applying to a small company, it is likely that the hiring manager will be the director. However, if it’s a large organisation with a recruitment department, try and find a specific person. LinkedIn is a useful resource for locating this key information.

Subject of email

The email subject is important as it will alert the recruiter to why you are applying. If you don’t make this clear, the recruiter may ignore it. If you have a job reference, you can put this in the subject, as well as the job title. If it’s a speculative application, you may want to include your desired job title.

Reason for the email

You should then state your reason for sending the email. For example:

Introduction

“Dear Mr Williamson,

I am writing to enquire about any administration roles you might have in your esteemed company. I have strong administration skills, together with experience working within the education sector, which I feel would be highly desirable for this role.”

The body of the email

There is no need to go into huge detail about why your skills and experience, as you will also include your cover letter and/or CV. Here is an example of an email you might consider sending:

Dear Mr Williamson,

I am writing to enquire about any administration roles you might have in your esteemed company. I have strong administration skills, together with experience working within the education sector, which I feel would be highly desirable for this role.

I am highly organised, with the ability to work to tight deadlines and I have experience in dealing with a wide range of people.

I would relish the opportunity to discuss any potential opportunities in more detail and would welcome an initial conversation.

Please find my CV attached for your reference.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely

Kate Smith

To cover letter or not to cover letter

There is a lot of debate about cover letters and whether there is any point in including them. You should always include a cover letter if it is requested on the job application. It is also a good idea to include a cover letter if it is a speculative application, as it can give the recruiter an initial insight into your skills and experience.

When to send your email

It is best to avoid sending your email over the weekend, as there is a good chance the recruiter will miss it amongst the other emails they have received. The best time to send it would be Monday morning as this is the day that most people spend going through their emails and other administrative tasks.

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