How long should a covering email be?

Around 150 to 220 words, which is short enough to read on a phone. If it needs scrolling, it's probably too long.

How do I start a covering email if I don't have a name?

Check the advert and the company website first. If you still can't find a name, "Dear Hiring Manager" is fine.

Do I need a covering email if I'm applying with a CV?

Unless the advert tells you not to send one, yes. It's your chance to say why this job, which a CV can't do.

How to write a covering email for a job

By CV Ready · Updated 30 October 2026

The short answer

A covering email is the short message you send with your CV. Name the role in the subject line, say why you want this job at this employer, give two or three reasons they should interview you with evidence from your CV, and close by saying you'd welcome a conversation. Aim for 150 to 220 words.

What should a covering email include?

A subject line that names the role, and the reference number if the advert gives one.
A greeting to a named person if you can find one.
One or two sentences on why this role and this employer specifically.
Your two or three strongest reasons, each backed by something real from your CV.
A clear, polite close and your phone number.

Covering email example

Subject: Warehouse Operations Manager, Castleford (ref 4471) Dear Priya, A new fulfilment centre is the kind of site I want to help set up and run, which is why this role caught my eye. I currently supervise a night shift of 17 people at Northgate Logistics, in a 120,000 sq ft warehouse. We held pick accuracy at 99.2% across 2023, and I cover for the operations manager during leave. I also hold IOSH Managing Safely and work with our site health and safety lead on near misses, including changing a racking walkway layout. I haven't worked in a formal Lean programme, and I'd rather be straight about that, but I'm keen to build on the day-to-day improvement work I already do. My CV is attached. I'd welcome the chance to talk it through. Kind regards, Jordan Ellis 07700 900123

What are the most common covering email mistakes?

Opening with "I am writing to apply for". They can see that. Start with why this job.
Repeating your CV line by line instead of picking the best two or three points.
Sending the same email to every employer. If you could swap the company name and nothing else changes, rewrite it.
Writing too much. Most readers skim, so make every sentence earn its place.
Forgetting the attachment, or naming the file CV_final_v3. Use your name and the word CV.

Should you put the covering email in the body or attach it?

If you're emailing a person, put it in the body of the email and attach your CV. Attach a separate letter only if the advert asks for one. On an application portal, paste it into the box provided or upload it as the form requires.

Frequently asked questions

How long should a covering email be?: Around 150 to 220 words, which is short enough to read on a phone. If it needs scrolling, it's probably too long.
How do I start a covering email if I don't have a name?: Check the advert and the company website first. If you still can't find a name, "Dear Hiring Manager" is fine.
Do I need a covering email if I'm applying with a CV?: Unless the advert tells you not to send one, yes. It's your chance to say why this job, which a CV can't do.