The conclusion of a job application email serves as the final impression you leave on a hiring manager. A professional ending reinforces your attention to detail, while a rushed closing can detract from an otherwise compelling application. This final element is your opportunity to tie your communication together cleanly and effectively, ensuring the reader’s last thoughts about you are positive.
Crafting the Final Paragraph
The last paragraph of your application email has a few distinct functions. Its primary purpose is to reiterate your strong interest in the position and thank the recipient for their time and for reviewing your materials. This is a simple courtesy that demonstrates respect for their busy schedule.
This concluding paragraph is also the place for a clear and polite call to action. Phrases like, “I am eager to discuss my qualifications and experience with you further,” guide the reader toward the outcome you desire without sounding demanding. It is also the appropriate place to mention any documents you have included with the email, such as, “Please find my resume attached for your review.”
Selecting a Professional Sign-Off
The sign-off, or valediction, is the short phrase before your name that sets the final tone of your message. While it may seem like a small detail, the right choice maintains a professional demeanor, while the wrong one can make you seem overly casual. Selecting the appropriate sign-off for the context is a mark of good business etiquette.
For formal applications, certain choices are consistently safe and well-received.
- Sincerely is a traditional and widely accepted sign-off that conveys earnestness without being overly stiff.
- Best regards strikes a balance between formal and friendly, making it a versatile option in modern business communication.
- Kind regards is a slightly warmer alternative to “Best regards” and can be a good choice if you have had some prior interaction with the recipient.
- Respectfully is a very formal option, best reserved for applications to highly traditional institutions or government positions.
Just as there are good choices, there are sign-offs to avoid. Closings like “Cheers,” “Thanks!,” or any informal shorthand can undermine the professional tone you have worked to establish.
Formatting Your Email Signature
Your email signature is the block of text that follows your sign-off, providing the recruiter with your contact information. It should be formatted for clarity, ensuring a hiring manager can quickly find the information they need to contact you.
The most effective email signatures contain only the necessary details. This includes your full name, phone number, and a clickable link to your LinkedIn profile or a professional online portfolio. Avoid including personal quotes, logos, or colorful images, as these can appear unprofessional and may be flagged by email spam filters.
Examples of Effective Email Endings
Seeing how these components work together can clarify how to end your own application emails. The final paragraph, sign-off, and signature should flow together to create a polished closing. The tone can be adjusted depending on the formality of the company culture.
Here is an example of a more traditional ending:
Thank you for your time and consideration. I have attached my resume for your review and am confident that my experience in project management would be a strong asset to your team. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications with you further.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
(555) 123-4567
linkedin.com/in/janedoe
This second example has a slightly more modern feel while remaining professional:
I am very enthusiastic about the prospect of bringing my skills in digital marketing to your company. Thank you for reviewing my application; my portfolio is attached for your convenience. I am eager to learn more about this role and the next steps in the process.
Best regards,
John Smith
(555) 987-6543
linkedin.com/in/johnsmith
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Ending Your Email
A few common errors can tarnish a well-written application email at the end. A typo in your name or contact information can make you appear careless and prevent the recruiter from contacting you. Proofreading your signature block is just as important as proofreading the body of the email.
Another mistake is adopting a demanding or presumptuous tone. Phrases like, “I expect to hear from you soon,” can come across as arrogant, so always maintain a polite tone in your call to action.
Finally, a frequent error is mentioning an attachment but forgetting to actually attach the file. Always double-check that your documents are properly uploaded before you hit send.