How to introduce yourself in an email

Although technology seems to change daily, knowing how to write professional emails is still an important life skill that will be useful throughout your life. Whether you’re reaching out to a teacher, applying for a job, or introducing yourself to a mentor, learning how to send a professional email will make you stand out.

Why email introductions matter

Email may not be your go-to communication tool (hello: texting and DMs). However, email is still the standard form of communication for anything formal. Writing a professional email shows confidence, respect, and maturity. It also helps ensure the message gets taken seriously. A well-crafted introduction is often the first impression, so it's worth getting it right.

Let's walk through this step-by-step guide to introducing yourself in an email, with examples to help your teen create a great first impression.

Introduce yourself in an email with these 5 steps

Here's a straightforward formula to help kids and teens send professional and effective email introductions.

1. Start with a clear subject line

The subject line is important; it often determines if your message gets opened (or not!). So, make sure the subject of your email is to the point and easy to understand. Here are some examples:

• Question about the Robotics Club

• Introduction: Jordan Smith, Ridgefield High School

2. Use an appropriate greeting

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Every email should start with a respectful greeting, especially when emailing teachers, mentors, or employers. Use formal titles like:

• Dear Mr. Brown,

• Hello Dr. Jones,

If you’re unsure of the recipient's title, Hello [First Name] is usually a safe option.

3. State your name and the purpose of your message

When you email someone for the first time, keep in mind that they likely have no idea why you’re reaching out. It’s important to provide your name and explain why you’re contacting them. Here are several methods:

• My name is Alex Johnson. I’m a sophomore at Ridgefield High School, and I’m writing because I would like to know more about student council.

• Hi, I’m Sarah Kim, and I’d like to apply for the part-time cashier position in your store. I wanted to introduce myself and express my interest in the role.

4. End with a thank you and next steps

It’s always nice to close an email by thanking the recipient for opening and reading it. You can also reiterate that you expect their reply. Some examples:

• Thank you for your time! I'm looking forward to speaking with you about my application.

• Thank you, and I hope we can catch up regarding student council.

5. Sign your email professionally

End your email with a proper closing and include your full name. You can even add your phone number or a link to your LinkedIn profile if you have one. Examples:

• Yours truly, Alex Johnson

• Sincerely, Sarah Kim

Email introduction examples

Now that we’ve covered the steps for introducing yourself in an email, here are a few email introduction examples you can use to start your own.

Reaching out to a teacher

Subject: Question about the upcoming math test

Dear Mr. Carter,

My name is Emily Rivera, and I'm in your Algebra II class. I'm emailing you to clarify the format of next week's test. Specifically, I'd like to know if it will include multiple-choice or short-answer questions.

Thank you in advance for your help!

Yours truly,

Emily Rivera

Job application follow-up

Subject: My cashier application

Hello Ms. Thompson,

My name is Jordan Smith, and I applied for the part-time cashier position at your store last week. I'm excited about the possibility of joining your team! 

Please let me know if I can share any additional information and if there's a convenient time to discuss my application further. Thank you so much for your time and attention.

Sincerely,

Jordan Smith

Asking a mentor for advice

Subject: STEM career advice

Dear Dr. Jones,

My name is Ethan Harris, and I am a senior at Clearview High School. I am interested in robotics and engineering, and I really admire the work you’ve done in this field. 

Could we meet to discuss your experience and any advice you may have on pursuing a career in a STEM field? Thank you for considering my request.

Yours truly,

Ethan Harris

Quick email introduction tips 

• Keep it short and focused: Aim for three to five sentences in your email. Long emails can feel overwhelming and often aren’t read in their entirety.

• Proofread for mistakes: Spelling or grammar errors can detract from an otherwise great email. So make sure you review it for errors before sending.

• Consider timing: Avoid sending the email when it might get overlooked, like late at night, over the weekend, or on a holiday.

• Don't hesitate to follow up: Feel free to follow up if you don’t get a response within a week. Send a polite reminder and include your original message to jog their memory about why you reached out.

• Follow email etiquette rules: Keep these email etiquette tips in mind so your messages are always professional. 

Mastering the art of email introductions is more than just a simple skill; it can be a path to new opportunities. Following the steps and tips outlined in this guide, you can ensure your emails make a lasting impression and open doors to exciting possibilities. 

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