Should I Attach My Cover Letter as a PDF or Just Type It in the Email?

Job applications can often be overwhelming, especially when it comes to the details of submitting your cover letter. Whether to attach your cover letter as a separate PDF or type it directly in the email body has been a common confusion among job seekers. In this article, we will explore the best practices for submitting your cover letter to ensure it leaves a positive impression on potential employers.

Professionalism

A cover letter as a separate PDF file adds a layer of professionalism to your job application. Business and academic research has consistently shown that well-formatted documents leave a better impression on employers. A PDF maintains the exact layout and formatting you intended, which can help convey your message more clearly and professionally.

Readability

Email clients and webmail services often have unpredictable ways of handling text formatting. Different platforms might add or remove spaces, change font sizes, or even color codes, making your text hard to read. A PDF, however, preserves the formatting as you intended, ensuring your cover letter remains clear and professional.

Ease of Access

Hiring managers and recruiters need to manage many applications at once. A PDF is easier to save, organize, and reference later. By attaching your cover letter as a separate file, you make it simpler for them to keep track of all the documents they receive, enhancing their overall application management experience.

Attachment Preference

Many employers have a longstanding preference for attached cover letters. This practice aligns with industry standards and ensures consistency across various job applications. Submitting a cover letter as a separate PDF can signal to the hiring manager that you are familiar with these common practices and take the application process seriously.

When Should I Attach a Cover Letter?

When the job posting specifies a preference: If the job listing clearly states that a cover letter should be submitted as a separate file, adhere to their instruction. For formal job applications: Even if the job posting is silent, a separate PDF attachment is often the safer and more professional choice. For recruiters who ask for attachments: If a recruiter explicitly requests a second email attachment, ensure you send it to avoid any miscommunication.

When Can I Type My Cover Letter Directly in the Email?

There are scenarios where typing your cover letter directly into the email body is preferable. These instances may include:

Emails that bypass filters: If you suspect your application may be filtered or delayed by a spam filter, including your cover letter directly in the email can bypass this issue. Applications through mobile devices: Emailing your cover letter directly ensures it is compatible with mobile devices, making the application process more convenient. Speed up the application process: By including your cover letter in the email body, you reduce the need for potential employers to open an attachment, thus speeding up the review process.

Personal Recommendation

As a hiring manager or recruiter, I generally prefer cover letters that are directly included in the email body. This approach ensures your message is seen immediately upon opening the email, making it more likely to catch the hiring manager's attention. Additionally, it can provide a direct integration between the cover letter and your resume, enhancing the overall presentation of your application.

Many job seekers are hesitant to include their cover letters directly in the email body because of concerns about the impact on the application process. However, including the cover letter in the email body can be an effective strategy if done correctly. It streamlines the application process and makes it more convenient for the hiring manager to review your complete application in one go.

Ultimately, the decision on whether to attach your cover letter as a PDF or include it directly in the email body should be guided by the job posting and the preferences of the employer. By understanding these best practices, you can enhance your job application and increase your chances of standing out from the competition.