Is your email address holding you back?
Imagine you're a hiring manager and the following applicants email you regarding an available job:
Who are you most likely to contact last and (more importantly) why?
The anatomy of a bad email address*
*Please note that "bad email address" refers solely to suitability for a professional job search (personally, we think ninjas are totally rad).
Hiring managers aren't psychic. They don't know that the applicant's area code is 435 and he spent 23 years training as a ninja; to them that address looks like a bunch of random information mashed together. There are many reasons that applicants get passed up for job opportunities, but your email address shouldn't be one of them. It's easy to get a free, professional email address for your job search.
There are certain letters, numbers, and characters you should try to avoid using in your professional email address. Most hiring managers will copy and paste your email address, but if they type it out you don't want to make them guess the makeup of one of your most vital pieces of contact information. Depending on the font, lowercase 'L', uppercase 'i' and '1' can look almost identical; the same is true of '0','o' and 'O', so avoid including these characters in your email address whenever possible.
Quick Tips:
- Do use combinations of your first and last name
- Do not use underscores
- Avoid the letters 'O', 'i', 'o' and 'L'
- Avoid the numbers '1' and '0'
If you do not already have a suitable email address, there are many free email providers out there. You may have to try several email addresses before you find one that isn't taken, but any combination of your first name and last name is generally a good one. If no reasonable combination of the two is available, then expand your address options to include your middle name or words related to the field you are pursuing.
In January 2011 alone, online job ads rose by 438,000 to a grand total of 4,273,000 postings. If you've been sending lots of job-related emails and getting few responses, you may be overlooking a stealthy culprit: your email address.
About Amy White
I know I definitley would not contact NinjaSkillz435@email.com I hope everyone looking for a job sees this article. Small things can really hurt you in your search for a job.
Someone has changed my email address but this my origanial need to create new email
For the profile, I’ve been asked repeated to change my email address, and I am not able to. I really don’t know what to do. Please help?
Hi Suzi!
a. Sign into your account here: http://www.snagajob.com/job-seeker/login.aspx
b. Click on the "profile" tab
c. Next to your email address, click "change"
Let me know if that doesn’t work!
-Amy
Guess I should change my Ladyofunicorns email then…
Please take another look at my application ,I believe there is some misunderstanding I was applying for the position of Sales Associate at the Rehoboth Store, I do look forward from hearing from your home office. Thank you in advance…..Teresa L. Oxendine
Hi Teresa – Your best bet would be to follow up directly with the employer. Good luck!
I just completed a accountm with snag a job but when O log on it tells me that my e mail is wrong, and I cannot trace my password?
that happen’s to me alot
I also am cursed with this problem . Whats the beef with my e-mail address?
Hi Steve! Your email address is fine.
I think the email thing is stupid. Honestly some times you can’t use a name that is taken and it will give you some stupid ones. I get the curse words or stuff like IEATU@gmail.com etc. But if it is something simple nice and a little funny why should it matter. Hence the saying “Don’t judge a book by its cover”. Even though some ones email address is NinjaSkillz435@email.com does not mean that they do not have the skills, training, and dedication to work. By doing this you loose a great employee.
Hi Nicole! It’s perfectly possible that person has the best skills for the job; but whether they go the extra mile to present themselves professionally just might make the difference to a hiring manager, and it’s best to put as many factors in your favor as you can!
I agree with that, but in this day and age it is not uncommon for people to have email addresses that they made in high school or their freshman year in college. Our email addresses stick with us and it is harder to create new ones as many internet features are now inextricably linked to your email account. I could MAYBE understand this sort of bias if the employer is hiring for a top-level position or are part of an organization with rigorous rules and guidelines (like a faith-based employer). However, for this to be a standard hiring practice for anyone in the public sector seems like a real lack of understanding and professionalism. If it is your job to hire the most qualified individual, then you ought to be looking at the contents of their resume to see how their skills and experience relate to the position being offered, not something as trivial as an email address.
Hi Josh, you make a good point about people selecting emails long ago and just sticking with them, but that’s part of why we recommend having a separate email address for job searches. In a competitive market, having a professional email address is just one more way you can show an employer that you’re willing to go the extra mile to appear professional (and it also means that if someone Googles your email address it’s not connected to any personal social media or forum accounts you may not want associated with your job search).
There is absolutely no reason that you can’t make a professional-looking email address at gmail or another free provider and use it for job hunting. When looking for a job you should do EVERYTHING you can to show you’re the best candidate.
Or, you can use the email that you made in high school. I mean, if I’m competing against you for the job, it certainly works to my advantage.
I agree with you about the symbols and characters that are confusing and can be misread. However, certain tasteful E-mail addresses show ceativity and give information about your personality. I have had the same E-mail address for over 13 years, so am stubborn about changing. It is not a major concern that employers won’t consider you if they do not like your E-mail address. It is a fact that hard to read E-mail addresses can be entered incorrectly. You could miss an E-mal from a potential employer.
I apologize. The last sentence should read “E-mail”, not “E-mal”.
Excellent points about readablity!
I think I have a rather sane email. No weird names, no numbers or symbols.
Guess that’s wrong too because no I receive no replies for employment. Just ads and spam….
Hi Rebekah, it might not be your email then – try these 4 steps and see if it helps! http://www.snagajob.com/resources/whos-really-hiring-ive-applied-to-tons-of-jobs/
My e-mail is my first name and last name, one after the other plus a number, would that be considered a good e-mail?
Looks good to me! That’s similar to my personal address too, since I have a VERY common name.
Ihave already applied as an assistant dog groomer trainee.Well I would like to add that I can stock pet products also and be a petco associate and helper to assist as directed.
Hi Steven, if you’ve already submitted your application to the employer you can’t update it, but make sure to include that information on your next application! Make sure that you follow up on your apps, too. Good luck!
Hi Amy, do you think I should change my e-mail address? It’s very special to me, I’ve had it for a very long time. Do you think that it is possibly keeping potential employers from contacting me?
Great question, Linda. Your email is probably safe but if you feel like you need an email address makeover, you can always create a new email account to use exclusively for your job search. That way you can put your mind at ease but still keep your longstanding email address.
I set up a professional account that I use only for school and work, but now after reading this article, I’m worried it’s not right. its SuzanneSNel1993, because that was the first combination I could get that wasn’t taken already…
Are you concerned about the numbers at the end of your address? It should be fine since 1993 can be perceived as a year. Random numbers are what causes problems.
It is hard to find a job with a criminal background. I really would like an oportunity to be given a chance to prove myself.
Hey Robyn. Check out these tips and see if you are missing anything http://www.snagajob.com/resources/dos-and-donts-of-job-searching-with-a-felony/
What if your real name has the letters L, O or I in it? Mine has two of those.
How about using a business name (if you have a small business) as your pro email address? Does that “look professional” or does it just look like you “already have a job”? And what if they don’t give you enough space on the app for the whole thing? Maybe your shorter email address is the one with the confusing letters but it’s the one that fits. Both of mine are the same length though so I’m just wondering hypothetically or for others.
And as far as ninja_skills goes, is it even possible to have a space instead of an underscore in an email address? I didn’t think it was and if I’m correct then they shouldn’t be confused about that. If you’re going to allow people to use email as a contact you should know the basics of how email works, which should include what’s allowed by the email system itself.
The article was not so much pointing out the particular letters being used in the email but how they were being used. It might be difficult for an employer to distinguish the “i” in “NINJA” as a letter or a number. The idea is to try to make it as easy as possible for the employer to know what your email address is. The same idea goes for the underscore/space issue.
I wouldn’t suggest using a pro email address from your small business. Employers won’t know that this is a small business you own and could mistake it as you searching for jobs while you should be working, which is a red flag for them. If your email address is super duper long, it might be time to get a shorter email that isn’t confusing for your job search purposes.
I am not able to complete the application the “My Office” section does not list a recruiter in my zip code area therefore will not let me finish. Any suggestions on how I can proceed with the application? Thanks.
Hi Karen – Contact us: http://www.snagajob.com/contact and we can get you sorted out!
I think my email nearly says it all. I’m too poor to pay for it or smart enough not to. I haven’t been smart enough to snagajob yet…with a little faith, I hope to soon.
I filled out the application, and would really like the opportunity to work for N.A.P.A., i WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU. Thanks for consideration1
Hi Michael- Following up after submitting the application is a great idea! However, I doubt an employer will see it on this blog. Be sure to contact the company directly. Also, double and triple check your email/letter for any spelling and grammar errors!
Hi Amy! My daughter told me that I wouldn’t get a job because I have a little curly and frizzy hair which I always try to control with moose. But she still says that I won’t get hired because of my frizzy hair. She said I should clip it down everywhere. My employer now said that she doesn’t think that my e-mail name classyjessie is so good to have as an e-mail address.
Hi Jessie – I think the email address you have used to post your comment is perfectly fine. I agree with your employer and would stay away from classyjessie.
I am not sure about my email is easy to rember what do u think.
the target job you posted will not let sign up
Hi Dan! Contact our support team: http://www.snagajob.com/contact and they can get you set up.
Kim Kovac,
I just read this article and it distressed me. I am looking for work and have been using this email address( email I used to post this comment). Do you think it is holding me back from employment opportunities?
Hi Josh – Sorry you are stressed! Your email address is perfectly fine. Let me know if you have any other questions!
Thanks Kim!
Actually I do have one more question. I have not had to use a resume in 6 years, but now I am back out there searching for work and am not sure my resume is up to par to grab today’s eye of the employer. Could you take a look or is this question for another department at Snagajob?
HI Josh – Send your resume to me: facebook@snagajob.com. I can try to take a look at it over one of my breaks!
will do. thank you!
I applied and filled up my app for Picture me Perfect and it seems like I lost some part of them?
What had happened? I spent at least 20-30 min filling up and answering pre-employment test and when I tried to submit it did not go through something happened, what I remembered is the page can not find or something like that. I will not go back and re do the app and answers all that questions again. Not sure if I will stay with snagjob.com????
Hi Anamaria! I am sorry you are frustrated. Contact our support team: http://www.snagajob.com/contact and they can work with you to see what happened.
is my email alright Blaylockmaurice123
Hi Maurice! Your email is fine. It’s actually a great example of using your name and a few numbers. Thanks for checking!
I tend to use my university e-mail — it’s the first letter of my first name followed by my last, and the last four digits of my student ID. It seems like a jumble, but it is a .edu address — that seems like it should be acceptable despite being a hodgepodge of letters and numbers, right?
Hi Jasmine! Are you still in school? If you are in school or have been out for a year or less then your email is fine. But, if you’ve been out of school for longer, try creating a generic email address that is just your name. Good luck and let me know if you have any other questions!
Hi, I’ve applied more than once for your Assistant Manager position (only once successfully) and was wondering if I am being considered for the position? I really believe this position is a good fit for me and am looking forward to working for your company. I’ve had a few other offers but am holding out until I know one way or the other if you are interested in hiring me. Thank you so much in advance for your consideration. Linda Dacierno
Hi Linda! Following up on your application is very important. However, your best bet would be to follow up directly with the employer, they will probably not see your blog comment. Good luck!
I thought my email was pretty clean but everytime I write it on paper I worry that someone might not see the “.” I usually leave extra space and make the period as visible as I can. I wonder if the “exe” might’ve been a bad idea. Should I create another email using my actual name or is my reimas email fine?
Hi Esteban! Great question. It is better to be safe than sorry, so you may want to create a new, generic email address that is simply your name. Good luck and let me know if you have any questions!
I’ve created an new that account that’s just my name. I’ll just capitalize the first letter of each name (first, middle, last) when writing it down to make it easier for others to read.
Thanks for the reply!
I thought my email sort of said a little about me and the hobby intrests, too. With a little sense of humor to go along. Can’t get a laugh or two, and enjoy a job. Makes for bad moral, in my books.
What do you think?
Hi Doyle! Take out the “b” in your email address and it gets a little inappropriate. Create a new, generic address that is simply your name. It is better to be safe than sorry!
“Avoid the letters 'O', 'i', 'o' and 'L'”
Okay…I guess I should just avoid a third of my first name including the FIRST letter…
i was just wondering if my email ghstangels@XXXX.COM could be whats holding me back. Please leave feed back thank you.
I have been waiting for a call for a job for a minute and really want a job at family dollar in charlestown,indiana and was wondering why I havnt gotten a call?
Hi Michelle! Have you followed up on your application?
I want to thank H.H.Gregg for the opportunity to apply for the Manager in training. I have always liked your stores.
Well, I don’t see any problem with my email address. Yes, I made it when I was younger, but it is clever and well suited for me. The random numbers are numbers offered from the computer as many screen names are taken as of lately; they also happen to coincide with my date of birth. I mean, if a person, a manager, is so biased then I would not want to work for them. Like many people has always said, what happened to “Don’t judge a book by it’s cover”?
ah…. i really dont care what the email address mean. i was just trying to get hired for a position. im done with being an RDH and wanted something different. ninjas are cool only when they were the original teenage mutant ninja turtles with the Cory, other than that ninjas suck.
Hi!
I just wanted advice on which email I should use for applying for jobs. I have one with my first-middle- and last initial. The other one is my graphic design business name.
Thanks,
Kristy
Hi Kristy! Your email addresses look fine. I recommend only using the graphic design email when applying for design jobs. You don’t want to give off the impression that you only want to work for them until a design job comes up
.
What if you can get an email address with just your first name, is that alright instead of having your first and last name? I guess one could argue that you need an email address with your first and last name so that you know who is who, but is that not what the sender name is for? Is an email address with just your first name okay for simply applying for jobs? Also, is an email address with just your first name okay to put on a resume?
I’m not sure if there’s really anything wrong with my email address? It’s my personal one that I’ve used for years, but it doesn’t have a ton of numbers and symbols in it. I’ve always considered it a pretty simple one.
Hi Sammi! Your email address looks fine. Thanks for checking!
My email is just my last name, and then birth month number and then the day, anything wrong with that?
Hi Anna! Your email address seems fine. Thanks for checking!
I didn’t realize that there was anything wrong with my e-mail address.
Avoid the letters ‘O’, ‘i’, ‘o’ and ‘L’
I guess I’m forever screwed because of my last name.
Hi Gailon! While your email address isn’t inappropriate, you should still create a professional email address that is simply your name. It is better to be safe than sorry!
That sounds like discrimination to me, that you would judge an applicant because YOU dont like their screenname. This could possibly be the best suited applicant you have seen all week but he/ she will never know because you wont contact them. Thats like finding out they have blonde hair and you dont like blondes. That is just wrong on so many levels I dont even know where to start. Hope not all the employers who use this web site are as biased as you are. No wonder the job situation is so bad in Orlando.
I agree with Amy! You should have separate E-mail accounts: Professional, Personal, and Public. In my case it’s a little easier for me since I have a fairly rare Last Name, so I have more ‘name options’ to choose from.
Not to be unprofessional, but job hunting is a Game! All they really know of you is what they see on paper; the Game is catching their eye in someway?…
GOOD LUCK!
It;s called first empressions! You want to do anything you possibly can to set yourself appart from everyone else. You want the employer to know that you are a proffesional. I understand that a silly email address may not be something that could get you looked over, but it can. By having a silly email address it comes off as a first empression that person is immature. I am saying this as manager that has looked over resumes.