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

Posted by Manukau Resume on 19 Aug 2026

When the process of applying for a job a well-written resume and cover letter are crucial. However, simply having good content doesn’t suffice. The structure for your resume is as important as the content. A poorly formatted cover letter can leave a bad impression on the manager who is hiring While a professionally formatted one can help your application stand out from the other applicants. In this article, we’ll discuss the do’s and don’ts of the format of your cover letters, and explain why it could be beneficial to let an experienced professional such as Manukau Resume handle the formatting for you.

First, let’s talk about the essentials of cover letter format.

  1. Do use a professional font. Times New Roman, Arial as well as Calibri are all great choices. Avoid using too extravagant or hard-to-read fonts.
  2. Do use a consistent layout. Make use of the same font, size, and layout for the covering letter.
  3. Do include proper spacing. Use single or 1.15 line spacing, and leave ample white spaces between each paragraph to make the text simple to comprehend.
  4. Do include your contact information near the beginning of the letters. This should include your address, name, phone number, and email.
  5. Personalize the letter. The name of the manager you’re hiring If possible, and then tailor your letter to the job and company which you’re applying.

Now, let’s discuss the don’ts of cover letter format.

  1. Do not use a template. Every cover letter needs to be original and tailored to the specific job and business you’re applying to.
  2. Limit the letter to one page. Keep the letter brief and to the point.
  3. Don’t use overly fancy formatting. Stick to a simple, professional layout.
  4. Don’t neglect to proofread. Double-check spelling and grammar errors prior to sending your letter.
  5. Make sure to acknowledge the note.

While it’s essential to be aware of the structure of your cover letter, it’s difficult and time-consuming to write it yourself. That’s where professional resume writing services like Manukau Resume comes in. Our team of experts know how to structure an effective cover letter that will make you stand out among the competition. We’ll handle the formatting so that you can focus on the contents of your letter.

In addition, our team will assist you in adjusting your cover letter to the specific job{ and company|| and the company| or company} the job you’re applying to. We’ll also check for grammar and spelling errors and ensure that your letter is clear in its writing and simple to understand.

In the end, a properly formatted cover letter could make all it’s worth in your career search. If you follow the do’s and nots of the format of your cover letter and possibly employing a professional such as Manukau Resume to handle the formatting on your behalf, you’ll be on your way to writing a professional cover letter that helps you stand out from the competition. Contact us on 0800 024 129 or use the contact form to reach us for any queries.

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