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

Posted by Manukau Resume on 19 Aug 2026

When you are applying for a job, well-written resumes and cover letter is crucial. However, just having great content doesn’t suffice. The design of your cover letter is as crucial as the content. A poorly-formatted cover letter could leave a bad impression on the hiring manager While a professionally formatted one will help your company stand out from the competitors. In this article, we’ll cover the important aspects of cover letter formatting, and then discuss why it could be beneficial to have professionals such as Manukau Resume handle the formatting for you.

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

  1. Do make sure to use a professional typeface. Times New Roman, Arial, and Calibri are all excellent choices. Avoid using too extravagant or hard-to-read fonts.
  2. Do use a consistent layout. Use the same font, font size, and formatting for the covering letter.
  3. Do include proper spacing. Utilize single, or 1.15 line spacing. Also, leave enough white space between paragraphs so that the letter is easy to read.
  4. Do include your contact information at the top of the letter. It should include your name, address telephone number, address, and email address.
  5. Do personalize the letter. The name of the manager you’re hiring If you can, and tailor the letter to the specific job you’re applying to.

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

  1. Don’t make use of a template. Every cover letter needs to be unique and customized to the job you’re applying for and the company you’re applying for.
  2. Do not exceed one page. Keep the letter brief and to the main point.
  3. Avoid using fancy layouts. Stick to a simple, professional layout.
  4. Don’t forget to proofread. Double-check spelling and grammar mistakes prior to sending the letter.
  5. Don’t forget to acknowledge the letter.

While it’s crucial to be aware of the format for your letter of cover, it can be time-consuming and overwhelming to do it yourself. This is where a professional resume writing service such as Manukau Resume comes in. Our team of specialists knows how to design your cover letter to help you stand out from the crowd. We’ll handle the formatting, so you can focus on the contents of your letter.

Additionally, our team will assist you in adjusting your cover letter to the specific job{ and company|| and the company| or company} you’re applying to. Furthermore, we’ll check for grammar and spelling mistakes and ensure that your letter is short as well as easy for readers to comprehend.

In conclusion, a well-formatted cover letter will make all an impact on your search for a job. By adhering to the do’s & guidelines for formatting your cover letters and perhaps hiring a professional like Manukau Resume to handle the formatting for you and you’ll be well on your way to creating a cover letter that helps you stand out from the crowd. Contact us at 0800 024 129 or use the contact form to contact us with any questions you may have.

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