How to format a cover letter: Do's and Don'ts

Posted by Murray Bridge Resume on 28 Nov 2025

When it comes to applying for a job, a well-written resume and cover letter is crucial. However, just having great content doesn’t suffice. The format of the cover letter you send out is just as crucial as the content. A poorly-formatted cover letter can leave a bad impression on the hiring manager however a well-formatted cover letter can help you stand out from your crowd. In this article, we’ll cover the rules and guidelines for the format of your cover letters, and then discuss why it could be beneficial to let an experienced professional such as Murray Bridge Resume handle the formatting for you.

Let’s start by discussing the essentials of formatting a cover letter.

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

Let’s get to the don’ts of cover letter formatting.

  1. Don’t make use of a template. Every cover letter should be unique and specific to the particular job and company you’re applying for.
  2. Don’t exceed one page. Keep your letter short and to the essence.
  3. Do not use fancy formatting. Choose a simple, professional layout.
  4. Make sure to proofread your letter. Double-check spelling and grammar errors before sending the letter.
  5. Don’t forget to sign the note.

While it’s crucial to be aware of the structure of your cover letter, it can be laborious and difficult to complete it yourself. This is where professional resume writing services such as Murray Bridge Resume comes in. Our team of experts knows how to structure an effective cover letter that will make you stand out among the other applicants. We’ll take care of the formatting so that you can focus on the contents in your cover letter.

In addition, our team will help you to tailor your cover letter to the specific job and the company the job you’re applying to. Furthermore, we’ll check for grammar and spelling mistakes as well as ensure your letter is clear and easy to read.

In the end, a properly formatted cover letter can make all it’s worth in your career search. By following the do’s and guidelines for formatting your cover letters and maybe hiring a professional service like Murray Bridge Resume to handle the formatting on your behalf, you’ll be on your way to creating a cover letter that makes you stand out from your other applicants. Don’t hesitate to call us at 1300 694 635 or use the contact form to reach us if you have any questions.

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The Importance of Formatting in Cover Letter Writing

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