What to write in the email when sending your CV (with examples)

The email around your CV is read before the CV itself — it's worth getting right, and it doesn't need to be long.

Why this email matters more than it seems

When you send a CV as an attachment, the email body is the very first thing a recruiter reads — before opening the attachment at all. A sloppy or overly bare email can undercut a strong CV before it's even opened, while a clear, professional one builds a good first impression from the first line.

Getting the subject line right

Keep it short, specific, and easy to search for later. A good format is: "Application for [Job Title] — [Your Name]". If the job posting includes a reference number, include that too: "Application for Marketing Coordinator (Ref: MK-204) — Sara Ahmed". Avoid vague subject lines like "Job Application" or "Resume" with no other detail — these are harder for a recruiter to sort and search through a full inbox.

The email body structure

Keep it short — three to four sentences is usually enough, since the CV and cover letter carry the real detail. A reliable structure:

State the role you're applying for and where you saw it.
One sentence on why you're a strong fit.
Note what's attached.
A brief, professional closing line.

Example: standard application email

"Dear [Hiring Manager's name / Hiring Team],
I'm writing to apply for the Marketing Coordinator position listed on LinkedIn. With three years of experience running social media campaigns and a strong track record of growing engagement, I believe I'd be a strong fit for this role.
Please find my CV and cover letter attached. I'd welcome the opportunity to discuss the role further.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Phone number]"

Example: shorter version when a cover letter isn't required

"Hello [Name / Team],
Please find my CV attached for the [Job Title] position. I have [X years/type] of experience in [relevant area] and would welcome the chance to discuss how I could contribute to your team.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
[Your Name]
[Phone number]"

Example: following up on a referral

"Dear [Name],
[Referrer's name] suggested I reach out about the [Job Title] opening at [Company]. I've attached my CV — I have [X years] of experience in [field] and think there could be a strong fit here.
Happy to share more detail or jump on a call whenever convenient.
Best,
[Your Name]
[Phone number]"

Small details that matter

Use a professional email address — a first-name-based one, not a nickname or number-heavy handle from years ago.
Name the attached file clearly (see our guide on naming your CV file) rather than leaving a default filename like "Document1.pdf".
Double-check the attachment is actually attached before sending — a surprisingly common and easily avoidable mistake.
Set a professional email signature with your name and phone number, so contact details are available even if the recruiter doesn't open the CV immediately.

FAQ

How long should the email body be when sending a CV?

Three to four sentences is usually enough — state the role, one line on fit, note the attachment, and close professionally. The CV and cover letter carry the detail.

What should the subject line say when emailing a CV?

Something specific and searchable, like "Application for [Job Title] — [Your Name]", including a reference number if the posting provided one.