Applying by email
Should the email body be my cover letter or should I attach the cover letter separately?
Either can work; follow the advert's instructions first. If there are none, a common approach is a short email body plus a separate cover letter attached as a PDF, which keeps the formatting and lets the recruiter forward or upload both documents.
Options:
- Short email + attached cover letter: best for formal applications and roles where documents will be shared with a panel.
- Cover letter in the email body only: fine for smaller companies, quick applications or when the advert says "send your CV and a short note".
- Never paste the full letter and also attach the same letter; it is repetitive.
If you write the letter in the body, keep it to three short paragraphs and use plain formatting. If you attach it, the email body should still say who you are, which role and what is attached.
Reviewed · by the ResumeBuilder.ae editorial team
Templates to try
Free to edit and preview. Single-column layouts are the safest choice for applicant tracking systems.
ATS Professional
Single column
ATS Classic
Single column
ATS Modern
Single column
General guidance for job seekers, not legal or immigration advice. Employers and applicant tracking systems differ, so always follow the instructions in the job advert. Spotted a mistake? Email support@jobb.ae.
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