what does a cover letter look like

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What Does a Cover Letter Look Like? (With Proven Examples)

Long story short: if your cover letter looks bad, it will generate zero interest. And there’s more to making it look great than setting the right margins and picking good fonts.

About 50% of the candidates send cover letters. And only 26% of the recruiters consider them important. But since you never know whose hands your job application is going to end up in, it’s better to be safe than sorry, isn’t it?

The problem is, if you send a cover letter that doesn’t look as it should, you’ll be doing yourself more harm than good.

In this article you’ll learn:

• What a resume cover letter should look like.
• What template works best for any cover letter.
• Tips on how to write one so it both looks and reads great.

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I had an interview yesterday and the first thing they said on the phone was: “Wow! I love your cover letter.” Patrick I love the variety of templates. Good job guys, keep up the good work! Dylan  My previous cover letter was really weak and I used to spend hours adjusting it in Word. Now, I can introduce any changes within minutes. Absolutely wonderful! George

Not sure how to proceed with a cover letter? Check our step-by-step guide on  how to write a cover letter .

1. Example of a Great Looking Cover Letter

Before we go any further, here’s what a resume cover letter looks like:

A Good-Looking Cover Letter for a Resume

Below you can find an outline you can copy and paste into a blank document:

Proper Cover Letter Outline

[Your Name]

[Your Job Title]

[Phone Number]

[Email Address]

[LinkedIn Account]

[Addressee’s Name]

[Addressee’s Job Title]

[Company Name]

[Company Address]

Dear [Addressee’s Name]

[Paragraph 1] Get the recruiter’s attention and introduce yourself.

When I found the opening for [Position] with [Company] , I was [Describe your excitement] . In my current position as [Current Job Title] , I [Mention a key achievement of yours] . I’m sure my experience will translate into similar results at [Company] .

[Paragraph 2] Prove your worth and explain why you’re a great fit.

I realize that [Mention a current problem a company is facing, e.g. refer to what you think is the most challenging in the role] . While working at [Previous Company] , I’ve [In two sentences, describe what you did specifically, mention another one of your key achievements and say how it helped the company] .

[Paragraph 3] Explain your motivations.

I love [Say what you like about the company and/or the role you want to fill in] . It’s perfectly in line with my core professional values: [In a sentence, say what it is. Make sure the values or skills you mention here tie in with the previous sentence] .

[Paragraph 4] Call to action.

When can we [arrange a meeting/schedule a phone call/interview] call to discuss [your contribution to the company] .

P.S. [Optional Section] Grab the recruiter’s attention once more with an additional achievement of yours included in the postscript. [E.g. I’d also love to tell you how I managed to motivate my team to achieve X by doing Y] .

Expert Hint: Your job application documents consist of a resume and a cover letter. It’s crucial for both of them to be formatted in the same way. Also, make sure both the resume header and cover letter header match one another.

2. How to Format and Write a Professional Looking Cover Letter 

As the name rightly suggests, a cover letter is a letter . It’s not an informal note. Or an email. And it’s not a novel either. So—

Just like you see in the template above, a cover letter should consist of:

How long should a cover letter be ? How much space do you have?  A single page.

To be more precise:

• Experienced candidates should stay below 300 words.
• Entry-level candidates shouldn’t exceed 200 words.

Obviously, nothing is set in stone. Let common sense be thy guide. If your cover letter is 20% longer or shorter, it’s fine. But:

A single paragraph won’t look good. Neither will a 5-page treatise. Here’s what you can do to make your cover letter look professional and get enough room for everything you want to say on a single page:

1. Format Your Cover Letter to Make It Look Professional

• Set one-inch margins on every side of your resume cover letter.
• Pick the best cover letter fonts . The safest font size is within 10–14pt range.
• Stay away from double line spacing. We recommend single or 1.15 line spacing. 
• Don’t cram in too much. White space is a friend. Embrace it.

Your recruitment documents consist of a resume and cover letter combo. So see to it that they look alike and use the same template for both.

2. Address Your Cover Letter Properly

You can tickle the hiring manager’s curiosity before they even read a single word on your cover letter. How? By addressing your cover letter properly .

Putting the hiring manager’s name on your cover will make it look professional and feel personal.

Find out who the hiring authority is and send your cover letter and resume to them directly, preferably through a mutual connection you have. This often takes research, but more often than not, you’ll have a connection somewhere in your network that can assist you. David Armendariz General Manager of the Technology Division for Lucas Group , an executive recruiting firm

Double your impact with a matching resume and cover letter combo. Use our cover letter generator and make your application documents pop out.

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Want to try a different look? There's 21 more. A single click will give your document a total makeover. Pick a cover letter template here .

3. Write a Great Looking Introductory Paragraph

The best way to grab the recruiter’s attention from the word go is to mention some of your key achievements in the opening paragraph. Our guide on how to start a cover letter will give you detailed instructions on how to get it right.

This way your cover letter will NOT look like it’s been copy-pasted an umpteenth time, but specifically crafter to this particular reader and job opening.

4. Compose a Compelling Main-Body Section

Relevance is key. So make sure the main body paragraphs of your cover letter look nothing but relevant to the career you’re after.

Explain to the reader what makes you the best candidate, how you want to help the company grow, and why you believe the job is a perfect match for you.

If you’re having doubts about how to put your best foot forward, you can find the answers in our guide on what to include in a cover letter .

In most jobs these days, communication skills are critical. Demonstrate that you can provide information in a clear, concise, and grammatically correct manner. And make sure that your letter is free of any typos or punctuation errors. If your cover letter is full of mistakes, you're speaking volumes about your attention to detail. So have somebody else (who has good writing skills) proof-read your cover letter. I once received a cover letter in which the applicant mentioned that he'd graduated from a top-tier "collage”—and I was not impressed! Timothy G. Wiedman Former Hiring Manager at two Fortune-ranked companies and Associate Professor of Management & Human Resources at Doane College

5. Add a Call to Action

Remember, a  letter of application isn’t a list of demands.  It’s a request.

You’re introducing yourself to someone you’d like to meet in person. So make sure you finish your cover letter with a powerful call to action that will help you achieve your goal.

6. Sign Off In a Professional Manner

Don’t get sloppy as you’re approaching the end of your cover letter. How you finish is just as important as how you start.

Learn how to end a cover letter to make it look great from start to finish.

And this is it! If you follow the steps above your cover letter will look professional and read great.

With ResumeLab’s resume builder you’ll write your resume in a flash. Get specific content to boost your chances of getting the job. Add job descriptions, bullet points, and skills. Improve your resume in our resume builder now .

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Nail it all with a splash of color, choose a clean font, highlight your skills in just a few clicks. You’re the perfect candidate and we’ll prove it. Just pick one of 21 resume templates and get started now .

Here’s all you need to remember about what a cover letter looks like:

• Address it to the right person.
• Make it one-page long.
• Follow a classic letter template.
• Set the right margins.
• Choose professional fonts.
• Format it just like your resume.
• Write killer content, relevant to the job.
• Make sure it’s free from typos and mistakes.

Do you have any questions? Would you like to share your ideas on what a great cover letter looks like? We’d love to hear from you! Give us a shout out in the comments below.

About ResumeLab’s Editorial Process

At ResumeLab, quality is at the crux of our values, supporting our commitment to delivering top-notch career resources. The editorial team of career experts carefully reviews every article in accordance with editorial guidelines , ensuring the high quality and reliability of our content. We actively conduct original research, shedding light on the job market's intricacies and earning recognition from numerous influential news outlets . Our dedication to delivering expert career advice attracts millions of readers to our blog each year.

Experienced in the education management industry, Maciej shares his knowledge for every step of your job hunt, from landing an internship to moving to an executive position. Maciej has helped job candidates at all stages of their career paths, from interns to directors to C-suite members, to thrive in their job. His mission is to help you find the right opportunity and create a job application that gets you the career you deserve.

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How to write a great cover letter in 2025: tips and structure

A cover letter is a personalized letter that introduces you to a potential employer, highlights your qualifications, and explains why you're a strong fit for a specific job.

Hate or love them, these brief documents allow job seekers to make an impression and stand out from the pile of other applications. Penning a thoughtful cover letter shows the hiring team you care about earning the position.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to write a cover letter — and a great one, at that.

What is a cover letter and why does it matter?

A professional cover letter is a one-page document you submit alongside your CV or resume as part of a job application. Typically, they’re about half a page or around 150–300 words.

An effective cover letter doesn’t just rehash your CV; it’s your chance to highlight your proudest moments, explain why you want the job, and state plainly what you bring to the table.

Show the reviewer you’re likable, talented, and will add to the company’s culture . You can refer to previous jobs and other information from your CV, but only if it helps tell a story about you and your career choices .

What 3 things should you include in a cover letter?

A well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out to potential employers. To make your cover letter shine, here are three key elements to include:

1. Personalization

Address the hiring manager or recruiter by name whenever possible. If the job posting doesn't include a name, research to find out who will be reviewing applications. Personalizing your cover letter shows that you've taken the time to tailor your application to the specific company and role.

2. Highlight relevant achievements and skills

Emphasize your most relevant skills , experiences, and accomplishments that directly relate to the job you're applying for. Provide specific examples of how your skills have benefited previous employers and how they can contribute to the prospective employer's success. Use quantifiable achievements , such as improved efficiency, cost savings, or project success, to demonstrate your impact.

3. Show enthusiasm and fit

Express your enthusiasm for the company and the position you're applying for. Explain why you are interested in this role and believe you are a good fit for the organization. Mention how your values, goals, and skills align with the company's mission and culture. Demonstrating that you've done your research can make a significant impression.

What do hiring managers look for in a cover letter?

Employers look for several key elements in a cover letter. These include:

Employers want to see that your cover letter is specifically tailored to the position you are applying for. It should demonstrate how your skills, experiences, and qualifications align with the job requirements.

Clear and concise writing

A well-written cover letter is concise, easy to read, and error-free. Employers appreciate clear and effective communication skills , so make sure your cover letter showcases your ability to express yourself effectively.

Demonstrated knowledge of the company

Employers want to see that you are genuinely interested in their organization. Mention specific details about the company, such as recent achievements or projects, to show that you are enthusiastic about joining their team.

Achievements and accomplishments

Highlight your relevant achievements and accomplishments that demonstrate your qualifications for the position. Use specific examples to showcase your skills and show how they can benefit the employer.

Enthusiasm and motivation

Employers want to hire candidates who are excited about the opportunity and motivated to contribute to the company's success. Express your enthusiasm and passion for the role and explain why you are interested in working for the company.

Professionalism

A cover letter should be professional in tone and presentation. Use formal language, address the hiring manager appropriately, and follow standard business letter formatting.

How do you structure a cover letter?

A well-structured cover letter follows a specific format that makes it easy for the reader to understand your qualifications and enthusiasm for the position. Here's a typical structure for a cover letter:

Contact information

Include your name, address, phone number, and email address at the top of the letter. Place your contact information at the beginning so that it's easy for the employer to reach you.

Employer's contact information

Opening paragraph, middle paragraph(s), closing paragraph, complimentary close, additional contact information.

Repeat your contact information (name, phone number, and email) at the end of the letter, just in case the employer needs it for quick reference.

Remember to keep your cover letter concise and focused. It should typically be no more than one page in length. Proofread your letter carefully to ensure it is free from spelling and grammatical errors. Tailor each cover letter to the specific job application to make it as relevant and impactful as possible.

How to write a good cover letter (with examples)

The best letters are unique, tailored to the job description, and written in your voice — but that doesn’t mean you can’t use a job cover letter template.

Great cover letters contain the same basic elements and flow a certain way. Take a look at this cover letter structure for ref erence while you construct your own.

1. Add a header and contact information

While reading your cover letter, the recruiter shouldn’t have to look far to find who wrote it. Your document should include a basic heading with the following information:

• Pronouns (optional)
• Location (optional)
• Email address
• Phone number (optional)
• Relevant links, such as your LinkedIn profile , portfolio, or personal website (optional)

You can pull this information directly from your CV. Put it together, and it will look something like this:

Christopher Pike

San Francisco, California

[email protected]

Alternatively, if the posting asks you to submit your cover letter in the body of an email, you can include this information in your signature. For example:

Warm regards,

Catherine Janeway

Bloomington, Indiana

[email protected]

(555) 999 - 2222

2. Include a personal greeting

Always begin your cover letter by addressing the hiring manager — preferably by name. You can use the person’s first and last name. Make sure to include a relevant title, like Dr., Mr., or Ms. For example, “Dear Mr. John Doe.”

Avoid generic openings like “To whom it may concern,” “Dear sir or madam,” or “Dear hiring manager.” These introductions sound impersonal — like you’re copy-pasting cover letters — and can work against you in the hiring process.

Be careful, though. When using someone’s name, you don’t want to use the wrong title or accidentally misgender someone. If in doubt, using only their name is enough. You could also opt for a gender-neutral title, like Mx.

Make sure you’re addressing the right person in your letter — ideally, the person who’s making the final hiring decision. This isn’t always specified in the job posting, so you may have to do some research to learn the name of the hiring manager.

3. Draw them in with an opening story

The opening paragraph of your cover letter should hook the reader. You want it to be memorable, conversational, and extremely relevant to the job you’re pursuing. 

There’s no need for a personal introduction — you’ve already included your name in the heading. But you should make reference to the job you’re applying for. A simple “Thank you for considering my application for the role of [job title] at [company],” will suffice.

Then you can get into the “Why” of your job application. Drive home what makes this specific job and this company so appealing to you. Perhaps you’re a fan of their products, you’re passionate about their mission, or you love their brand voice. Whatever the case, this section is where you share your enthusiasm for the role.

Here’s an example opening paragraph. In this scenario, you’re applying for a digital marketing role at a bicycle company:

“Dear Mr. John Doe,

Thank you for considering my application for the role of Marketing Coordinator at Bits n’ Bikes.

My parents bought my first bike at one of your stores. I’ll never forget the freedom I felt when I learned to ride it. My father removed my training wheels, and my mom sent me barrelling down the street. You provide joy to families across the country — and I want to be part of that.”

4. Emphasize why you’re best for the job

Your next paragraphs should be focused on the role you’re applying to. Highlight your skill set and why you’re a good fit for the needs and expectations associated with the position. Hiring managers want to know what you’ll bring to the job, not just any role.

Start by studying the job description for hints. What problem are they trying to solve with this hire? What skills and qualifications do they mention first or more than once? These are indicators of what’s important to the hiring manager.

Search for details that match your experience and interests. For example, if you’re excited about a fast-paced job in public relations, you might look for these elements in a posting:

• They want someone who can write social media posts and blog content on tight deadlines
• They value collaboration and input from every team member
• They need a planner who can come up with strong PR strategies

Highlight how you fulfill these requirements:

“I’ve always been a strong writer. From blog posts to social media, my content pulls in readers and drives traffic to product pages. For example, when I worked at Bits n’ Bikes, I developed a strategic blog series about bike maintenance that increased our sales of spare parts and tools by 50% — we could see it in our web metrics.

Thanks to the input of all of our team members, including our bike mechanics, my content delivered results.”

5. End with a strong closing paragraph and sign off gracefully

Your closing paragraph is your final chance to hammer home your enthusiasm about the role and your unique ability to fill it. Reiterate the main points you explained in the body paragraphs and remind the reader of what you bring to the table.

You can also use the end of your letter to relay other important details, like whether you’re willing to relocate for the job.

When choosing a sign-off, opt for a phrase that sounds professional and genuine. Reliable options include “Sincerely” and “Kind regards.”

Here’s a strong closing statement for you to consider:

“I believe my enthusiasm, skills, and work experience as a PR professional will serve Bits n’ Bikes very well. I would love to meet to further discuss my value-add as your next Director of Public Relations. Thank you for your consideration. I hope we speak soon.

Tips to write a great cover letter that compliments your resume

When writing your own letter, try not to copy the example excerpts word-for-word. Instead, use this cover letter structure as a baseline to organize your ideas. Then, as you’re writing, use these extra cover letter tips to add your personal touch:

• Keep your cover letter different from your resume : Your cover letter should not duplicate the information on your resume. Instead, it should provide context and explanations for key points in your resume, emphasizing how your qualifications match the specific job you're applying for.
• Customize your cover letter . Tailor your cover letter for each job application. Address the specific needs of the company and the job posting, demonstrating that you've done your homework and understand their requirements.
• Show enthusiasm and fit . Express your enthusiasm for the company and position in the cover letter. Explain why you are interested in working for this company and how your values, goals, and skills align with their mission and culture.
• Use keywords . Incorporate keywords from the job description and industry terms in your cover letter. This can help your application pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and demonstrate that you're well-versed in the field.
• Keep it concise . Your cover letter should be succinct and to the point, typically no more than one page. Focus on the most compelling qualifications and experiences that directly support your application.
• Be professional . Maintain a professional tone and structure in your cover letter. Proofread it carefully to ensure there are no errors.
• Address any gaps or concerns . If there are gaps or concerns in your resume, such as employment gaps or a change in career direction, briefly address them in your cover letter. Explain any relevant circumstances and how they have shaped your qualifications and determination.
• Provide a call to action . Conclude your cover letter with a call to action, inviting the employer to contact you for further discussion. Mention that you've attached your resume for their reference.
• Follow the correct format . Use a standard cover letter format like the one above, including your contact information, a formal salutation, introductory and closing paragraphs, and your signature. Ensure that it complements your resume without redundancy.
• Pick the right voice and tone . Try to write like yourself, but adapt to the tone and voice of the company. Look at the job listing, company website, and social media posts. Do they sound fun and quirky, stoic and professional, or somewhere in-between? This guides your writing style.
• Tell your story . You’re an individual with unique expertise, motivators, and years of experience. Tie the pieces together with a great story. Introduce how you arrived at this point in your career, where you hope to go , and how this prospective company fits in your journey. You can also explain any career changes in your resume.
• Show, don’t tell . Anyone can say they’re a problem solver. Why should a recruiter take their word for it if they don’t back it up with examples? Instead of naming your skills, show them in action. Describe situations where you rose to the task, and quantify your success when you can.
• Be honest . Avoid highlighting skills you don’t have. This will backfire if they ask you about them in an interview. Instead, shift focus to the ways in which you stand out.
• Avoid clichés and bullet points . These are signs of lazy writing. Do your best to be original from the first paragraph to the final one. This highlights your individuality and demonstrates the care you put into the letter.
• Proofread . Always spellcheck your cover letter. Look for typos, grammatical errors, and proper flow. We suggest reading it out loud. If it sounds natural rolling off the tongue, it will read naturally as well.

Common cover letter writing FAQs

How long should a cover letter be.

A cover letter should generally be concise and to the point. It is recommended to keep it to one page or less, focusing on the most relevant information that highlights your qualifications and fits the job requirements.

Should I include personal information in a cover letter?

While it's important to introduce yourself and provide your contact information, avoid including personal details such as your age, marital status, or unrelated hobbies. Instead, focus on presenting your professional qualifications and aligning them with the job requirements.

Can I use the same cover letter for multiple job applications?

While it may be tempting to reuse a cover letter, it is best to tailor each cover letter to the specific job you are applying for. This allows you to highlight why you are a good fit for that particular role and show genuine interest in the company.

Do I need to address my cover letter to a specific person?

Whenever possible, it is advisable to address your cover letter to a specific person, such as the hiring manager or recruiter. If the job posting does not provide this information, try to research and find the appropriate contact. If all else fails, you can use a generic salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager."

Should I include references in my cover letter?

It is generally not necessary to include references in your cover letter. Save this information for when the employer explicitly requests it. Instead, focus on showcasing your qualifications and achievements that make you a strong candidate for the position.

It’s time to start writing your stand-out cover letter

The hardest part of writing is getting started. 

Hopefully, our tips gave you some jumping-off points and confidence . But if you’re really stuck, looking at cover letter examples and resume templates will help you decide where to get started. 

There are numerous sample cover letters available online. Just remember that you’re a unique, well-rounded person, and your cover letter should reflect that. Using our structure, you can tell your story while highlighting your passion for the role. 

Doing your research, including strong examples of your skills, and being courteous is how to write a strong cover letter. Take a breath , flex your fingers, and get typing. Before you know it, your job search will lead to a job interview.

If you want more personalized guidance, a specialized career coach can help review, edit, and guide you through creating a great cover letter that sticks.

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Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

3 cover letter examples to help you catch a hiring manager’s attention

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How to Format a Cover Letter: A Step-by-Step Guide for Job Seekers

Cover letters are meant to impress, but poor formatting won’t impress anyone. Cover letter formatting is fairly standard across industries, and following the proper format shows that you understand professional conventions. Knowing how to format your cover letter correctly can make a positive impact and help you stand out for the right reasons.

In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about cover letter formatting. We’ll provide step-by-step instructions on formatting the header, greeting, introduction, body, closing, and signature, along with templates and examples to help you create a polished and professional cover letter.

Why does cover letter formatting matter?

While we’ve discussed what a cover letter is , here we’ll explain why formatting it is so important. Formatting plays a crucial role in making your cover letter effective and professional. Cover letters generally follow an industry-standard format, making it easier for hiring managers to quickly find key information. For example, if they need your full name or contact details, they’ll know exactly where to look.

But there’s more to cover letter formatting than just searchability. Cover letters are formal business documents, and using the correct format demonstrates your professionalism and attention to detail, making you appear more capable and qualified.

If formatting your cover letter feels overwhelming, try our free AI cover letter generator . It saves time by creating a well-formatted draft in seconds that you can then easily personalize to showcase your unique experience and style.

Cover letter formatting for applicant tracking systems (ATS)

Many companies now use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to automatically screen cover letters and résumés for specific information. Using the correct format ensures that your cover letter is easily processed by ATS software, helping your application reach hiring managers.

The good news is that structuring your cover letter by following the established guidelines here will already make it compatible with ATS. Mentioning criteria like your work history, reasons for applying, and professional skills are exactly what ATS scans for, and following the template below will ensure that ATS can find what it needs.

These additional guidelines can further help ATS:

• Add keywords from the job post throughout your cover letter.
• Avoid images or page decorations.
• Stick with simple layouts—complicated layouts can confuse ATS and render your data unsearchable.
• Use standard fonts like Times New Roman or Arial.

Make your cover letter shine Grammarly helps you polish your writing Write with Grammarly

Cover letter formatting basics

Usually, the length of a cover letter is less than a page , typically around three paragraphs . Our guide on how to write a cover letter explains what to say in those paragraphs, but the short version is to dedicate a paragraph each for the introduction, body, and conclusion.

When sending your cover letter as the body of an email (rather than as an attachment), formatting is simpler. Use the default font and size of your email app and skip the header, but be sure to include a clear greeting, sign-off, and your contact information at the end.

Formatting cover letters for print and file attachments

When printing your cover letter or submitting it as an email attachment, use a more structured format. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:

• Use single-spaced lines within paragraphs, and leave a space between each paragraph.
• Choose a professional font, such as Times New Roman or Arial, with a font size of 12 for readability.
• Set one-inch margins on all sides of the page.
• Include a header with your contact information, the recipient’s contact information, and the date.

If you’re attaching your cover letter as a digital file, there are some additional formatting rules as well. For starters, always use the file type requested by the company . Different employers have different preferences for file types, such as a PDF (.pdf) or Word document (.doc). In the event no preference is given, we recommend PDF as it preserves the document’s appearance on all devices.

It’s also recommended to title the document in a way that’s convenient for the hiring manager. You can add your first and last name, plus the words “cover letter” in the file name so the employers can search for it easily. This also makes your cover letter come across as more professional. You can follow this template when naming your file:

Firstname_Lastname_CoverLetter.pdf

Matt_Ellis_CoverLetter.pdf

Here’s a tip: Capturing the right tone and knowing what to say can be tricky, especially if you’re new to cover letters. If you’re struggling, use Grammarly’s free AI cover letter generator to create a first draft, and then customize it with your own personal information. That way you don’t have to start from scratch, plus you can focus more on style and voice.

How to format a cover letter

How to format a cover letter header.

In a formal cover letter, use a traditional header that includes both the sender’s and recipient’s contact information, along with the date. This format is optional for emailed cover letters but is generally used for attachments to job applications. Including this header adds a professional touch and makes your contact information easily accessible.

The header is aligned to the top-left corner of the page. Begin with your name, address, phone number, and email. After an empty line, add the date, followed by another empty line, then the recipient’s details. Although it’s acceptable to omit the recipient’s full address, be sure to include their name, title, and the company’s name.

Here’s a template you can follow:

[Your name] [Address] [Phone number] [Email]

[Today’s date]

[Recipient’s name] [Recipient’s professional title] [Company name] [Address]

How to format a cover letter greeting

After the header, open your cover letter with a greeting, or salutation, that is professional and appropriate. When you know the recipient’s name, personalize the greeting by including their full name and honorific, such as “Dear Ms. Abby Nightingale.”

If the recipient’s name is unknown, use a general greeting. Options include “To Whom It May Concern” or “Dear Hiring Manager.” Always end the greeting with a comma and leave an empty line below before starting the body of your letter.

How to format a cover letter body paragraph

The paragraphs in a cover letter use block formatting, which means they start flush left with no indentation for the first line of each paragraph. For readability, consider using bullet points to break up longer sections or highlight specific accomplishments. Bullet points are optional, so use them only when they improve the flow.

How to format a cover letter signature

At the end of your cover letter , include your signature with specific formatting. The signature has three parts:

• A sign-off (such as “Sincerely,” or “Best Regards,”)
• Your signature (handwritten for print letters or typed for digital submissions)
• Your contact information, if not already included in the header

The sign-off should be brief and end with a comma. Common choices include:

Sign your name below the sign-off. For print letters, sign in ink; for digital letters, simply type your name. If you didn’t include your contact information at the top, add it beneath your signature.

If you included your contact details in a header at the top, you can stop after the signature. If not, it’s customary to include your contact details under your signature.

While sometimes you may see the signature flush right at the bottom of the page, considering the formality of cover letters, we recommend aligning it flush left , in line with the text.

How to write a cover letter: example

Dear AcmeCo,

As a skilled sales representative in the tech and electronics industry, I am excited to apply for the Sales Associate role listed on LinkedIn. AcmeCo’s commitment to groundbreaking AI innovation has always impressed me, and I am eager to bring my expertise in strategic sales and customer-centric service to a company I’ve followed and admired for years. With a proven track record of exceeding targets and building strong client relationships, I am confident I can contribute to your team’s continued success.

In my previous role at Boltvern, I built a loyal customer base and increased client retention by 25% by prioritizing tailored solutions and consistent follow-up. I was their youngest employee to be promoted to Senior Sales Representative in just under two years. Not only do I understand the client-side aspect of sales, but also I have a Bachelor’s in Computer Science from Cornell, which allowed me to understand the intricacies of the product and communicate its benefits effectively. While it’s unfortunate that my time in Weyland was cut short due to company-wide layoffs, I am eager to bring my skills to AcmeCo’s sales team.

My background in sales, combined with my passion for technology and commitment to client success, makes me an ideal candidate for this role. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills align with AcmeCo’s goals, and I am available for an interview at your convenience. Thank you for considering my application.

Best, Jonathan Conner

How to write a cover letter: template

Here’s a cover letter template you can use to write your own cover letter. Simply plug in your information to the corresponding part. For more details, check out our guide on cover letter format .

[Recipient’s name] [Recipient’s professional title] [Company name] [Address]

[Salutation/greeting],

[Introduce yourself. Explain your profession, the position title you’re applying for, and how you heard about it. Briefly mention why this role and company interest you and why you’d be a good match. Show enthusiasm. End with a sentence that transitions or leads into the next paragraph.]

[Summarize your job history, focusing on relevant experience. Add extra context, such as what you learned from these jobs or why certain experiences prepared you for this role. Feel free to address problems with your résumé, like gaps or short tenures. Mention related skills and achievements and any quantifiable results or metrics.]

[Reiterate the main benefits of hiring you, including any soft skills or attributes that align with the company culture. Restate your enthusiasm, thank them for considering your application, and add a call-to-action to suggest a follow-up, such as scheduling an interview.]

[Simple sign-off], [Signature]

Cover letter formatting FAQs

How long should my cover letter be.

Usually, the length of a cover letter is less than a page, typically around three paragraphs. Cover letters work best when they’re short and straight to the point, so aim to only highlight your most relevant qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.

What font should I use for my cover letter?

For an email cover letter, the default font of your email app is typically acceptable. For print letters or email attachments, use a professional font like Times New Roman or Arial in 12-point size. Choose a font that’s easy to read and fits the company’s tone—Times New Roman is best for more formal settings, while Arial works well for casual environments.

Are cover letters single- or double-spaced?

Cover letters should be single-spaced, except when extra spaces are needed for formatting, such as after the greeting or around the date.