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

Posted by Whyalla Resume on 6 Feb 2026

When it comes to applying for jobs, an impressive resume and cover letter is crucial. However, just having great content doesn’t suffice. The format that you write your letter in is as important as the content. A cover letter that is poorly formatted can leave a bad impression on your hiring manager however a well-formatted cover letter will help you stand out from your crowd. In this article, we’ll discuss the do’s and don’ts of cover letter formatting, and discuss why it may be beneficial to let an experienced professional such as Whyalla Resume handle the formatting for you.

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

  1. Do make sure to use a professional typeface. Times New Roman, Arial, as well as Calibri are all excellent choices. Avoid using overly fancy or difficult to read fonts.
  2. Do use a consistent layout. Use the same font, size, and layout in the letter of cover.
  3. Do include proper spacing. Use single or 1.15 lines, and make sure you leave plenty of white space to make the letter easier to understand.
  4. Do include your contact information near the beginning of the letters. This should include your address, name along with your telephone number and email.
  5. Make sure to personalize your letter. Use the hiring manager’s name as much as you can, and customize your letter to the job you’re applying to.

Now, let’s talk about the rules of cover letter layout.

  1. Use a sample. Each cover letter should be unique and tailored 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 point.
  3. Don’t use overly fancy formatting. Keep it simple and professional layout.
  4. Do not forget to proofread. Double-check grammar and spelling errors prior to sending your letter.
  5. Make sure to sign the note.

While it’s essential to pay attention to the format the cover letter you write, it can be time-consuming and overwhelming to do it yourself. This is where professional resume writing services like Whyalla Resume comes in. Our team of experts know how to format a cover letter that will help you stand out from the competition. We’ll take care of the formatting so that you can focus on the content in your cover letter.

In addition, our staff will help you to tailor your cover letter to the specific job or company the job you’re applying to. We’ll also check for spelling and grammar mistakes as well as ensure your letter is clear easily read.

In conclusion, a well-formatted cover letter will make all it’s worth in your career search. By following the do’s and nots of the format of your cover letter and maybe employing a professional such as Whyalla Resume to handle the formatting on your behalf and you’ll be well on your way to creating a cover letter that helps you stand out from the crowd. Don’t hesitate to call us at 1300 694 635 or use the contact form to reach us should you have any concerns.

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