Is It OK to Write a Cover Letter in an Email?

If the hiring party specifically asks you to include your cover letter in the body of the email or does not mention any specific instructions, it is acceptable to do so. Writing your cover letter in the body of the email can make it more accessible and easier for the hiring manager to read quickly.

However, always follow the specific directions provided by the hiring company to ensure you meet their expectations. Some companies prefer attachments or use an applicant tracking system (ATS) that requires documents in a specific format. Ignoring these instructions may result in your application being overlooked or discarded.

How we review the content at LiveCareer

Our editorial team has reviewed this article for compliance with Livecareer’s editorial guidelines. It’s to ensure that our expert advice and recommendations are consistent across all our career guides and align with current CV and cover letter writing standards and trends. We’re trusted by over 10 million job seekers, supporting them on their way to finding their dream job. Each article is preceded by research and scrutiny to ensure our content responds to current market trends and demand.