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How to Attach a Resume to an Email

By the Gray Hair Jobs Editorial Team · Published · 2 min read

The short answer

Attaching a resume means adding your resume file to an email, so it travels along with your message. In most email programs, you click a paperclip icon, find your resume file, and select it. The file name then appears in your message. Write a short, polite note in the email itself, and check the attachment before you click Send.

Key points

  • An attachment is a file sent along with an email.
  • The paperclip icon is the usual way to attach a file.
  • A PDF is a safe choice for a resume attachment.
  • Always write a short message in the email body.
  • Check that the file is attached before you send.

Some employers, especially smaller businesses, ask you to email your resume instead of using an online form. Recruiters and contacts may also ask you to "send over your resume." Attaching it correctly makes it easy for them to open and read.

What it looks like

In most email programs, an attached file appears as a small box or line at the bottom or top of your message, showing the file name. The person who receives it clicks that box to open it.

The paperclip icon is the common symbol for "attach." In Gmail and Outlook it appears near the Send button or at the top of the message window.

What to do next

In Gmail on a computer

  1. Click Compose to start a new email.
  2. Enter the employer's email address in the To line.
  3. Add a clear subject, such as "Application for Office Manager - Jane Miller".
  4. Write a short message (see the example below).
  5. Click the paperclip icon (Attach files) at the bottom of the window.
  6. Find your resume file, click it, and then click Open.
  7. Wait until the file name appears in the message, then click Send.

In Outlook

Click New mail (or New email), then click Attach file or the paperclip icon, and choose your resume. The exact wording can vary by version.

A simple message you can adapt

"Dear Ms. Patel, I am writing to apply for the Office Manager position. My resume is attached. I would welcome the chance to discuss how my experience could help your team. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Jane Miller, (555) 555-0123."

Before sending, make sure the file is named clearly, such as "Jane-Miller-Resume.pdf". For help, read creating PDFs and email basics.

Frequently asked questions

Should I attach my resume as a PDF or Word document?

A PDF is usually the safest choice because it looks the same on any device. If the employer specifically asks for a Word document, send that instead. Following their instructions shows you pay attention to detail. Whichever format you use, open the file once before attaching it to make sure it looks right.

How do I know the attachment worked?

After you attach the file, its name should appear in your message, usually near the bottom or under the subject line. You can click it to open and check it before sending. After you send, you can look in your Sent folder and open the message to confirm the file went with it.

Should I paste my resume into the email instead?

Usually not, unless the employer asks you to. Pasted text often loses its formatting. Attach the file and keep your email message short. Some people also paste a plain version below their message as a backup, but this is optional.

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