The Formatting of Cover Letters: What to Do and Not To Do

Posted by Invercargill Resume on 7 Oct 2026

If you’re applying for a job, a well-written resume and cover letter is crucial. However, just having great content isn’t enough. The format of the cover letter you send out is just as important as the content. A cover letter that is poorly formatted could leave a bad impression on the manager who is hiring and a properly formatted one will help you stand out from your crowd. In this post, we’ll look at the do’s and don’ts of the format of your cover letters, and discuss why it may be beneficial to let professionals such as Invercargill Resume handle the formatting for you.

In the beginning, let’s discuss the essentials of cover letter formatting.

  1. Do use a professional font. Times New Roman, Arial as well as Calibri are all good options. Avoid using fancy fonts or hard-to-read fonts.
  2. Do use a consistent layout. Make use of the same font, size and format in the letter of cover.
  3. Do include proper spacing. Choose single line or 1.15 lines, and allow ample white spaces between each paragraph to make your letter simple to comprehend.
  4. Include your contact information at the top of the letter. Include your address, name telephone number, address, and email address.
  5. Personalize the letter. Use the hiring manager’s name as much as you can, and customize your letter to match the job that you’re applying for.

Now, let’s discuss the dos and don’ts of cover letters format.

  1. Don’t make use of a template. Each cover letter should be unique and customized to the job you’re applying for and the company you’re applying to.
  2. Don’t exceed one page. Make sure the letter is concise and to the main point.
  3. Don’t use overly fancy formatting. Stick to a simple, professional layout.
  4. Don’t neglect to proofread. Double-check for spelling and grammar mistakes before you send the letter.
  5. Don’t forget to sign the note.

While it’s vital to be aware of the format of your cover letter, it can be time-consuming and overwhelming to do it yourself. This is where a professional resume writing service like Invercargill Resume comes in. Our team of professionals knows how to design a cover letter that will ensure that you stand out from your competition. We’ll take care of the formatting, so you can focus on the contents that you want to convey in the cover letter.

In addition, our staff can help you tailor your cover letter to the specific job{ and company|| and the company| or company} you’re applying to. In addition, we’ll review for grammar and spelling mistakes and ensure that your letter is clear and easy to read.

In conclusion, a well-formatted cover letter can make all the difference in your job search. By following the do’s and guidelines for formatting your cover letters and maybe hiring a professional service like Invercargill Resume to handle the formatting for you, you’ll be on your way to creating a cover letter that makes to stand out in the other applicants. Don’t hesitate to call us at 0800 215 100 or use the contact form to contact us should you have any concerns.

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