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Cover Letter Spacing Guidelines

Cover Letting Spacing Overview

• Using Letter Samples and Templates
• Review Sample Formatted Cover Letters

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Technology has made it easier than ever to apply to jobs. But there’s one part of the process that’s hard to automate: cover letters.

Maybe that’s why so few candidates write them. Only 42% of applicants say that they submit this crucial document when they apply for a job. However, most hiring managers still want to see cover letters from job applicants. Even if they didn’t, it would be a shame to miss out on the opportunity to sing your praises to decision-makers. Write a thoughtful, professional cover letter, and you’ll stand out from the competition before you’ve even spoken with the hiring team.

If it’s been a while since you’ve written a cover letter—or any formal business correspondence—you might feel a little intimidated. Even the  formatting requirements  can feel confusing when you’re rusty.

The good news is that there’s a clear formula for organizing your cover letter. These cover letter spacing guidelines will help you compose a message that makes the best possible impression.

The format of a letter refers to the way the letter is arranged on the page. The format includes spacing, indentation, margins, and more.

When you're writing a cover letter, the spacing is important regardless of what form your letter is in. An email cover letter needs to be as properly formatted as a typed cover letter.

Read below for cover letter spacing and general formatting guidelines for both typed and email cover letters. Two sample cover letters, one for a typed letter and one for an email letter, are included.

• Format an email cover letter just like a traditional business letter, with spaces in between each paragraph and your signature.
• Align your cover letter to the left.
• Single-space the paragraphs in your cover letter or email message.
• When you're sending a typed letter, include a handwritten signature and a typed signature underneath it.
• When you're sending an email message, follow your signature with your contact information. If you have a formatted email signature, use this to close your message.

Your cover letter should be one page or less. Use a 10- or 12-point font that is easy to read, such as Times New Roman, Calibri, or Arial.

How to Use Letter Samples and Templates

Cover letter examples and templates  can help you visualize the layout of your letter. They also show you what elements you need to include, such as introductions and body paragraphs.

Along with helping with your layout, letter samples and templates can help you see what kind of content you should include in your document, such as a brief explanation of a layoff.

You should use a template or an example as a starting point for your letter. However, you should always personalize and customize your cover letter, so it reflects your skills and abilities, and the jobs you are applying for.

Remember that hiring managers want candidates who are passionate about this particular job, not just any job. Use your cover letter as a sales document to persuade the hiring team that you’re the right person for the job.

Review Sample Cover Letters

Here's an example of a properly spaced and formatted printed cover letter, as well as a sample email message.

Sample Spacing for a Printed Document

Your Name Your Street Address Your City, State Zip Code Your Phone Number Your Email Address

Dear Hiring Manager:

First Paragraph: The first paragraph of your letter should include information on why you are writing. Mention the position you are applying for.

Middle Paragraphs: The next paragraphs of your cover letter should describe what you have to offer the employer. Make strong connections between your abilities and their needs. Use several shorter paragraphs or bullets rather than one large block of text. Keep the paragraphs single-spaced but leave a space between each paragraph.

Final Paragraph: Conclude your cover letter by thanking the employer for considering you for the position.

Signature: Sincerely,

Signature (Handwritten)

Signature (Typed)

Sample Spacing for an Email Message

Subject: Your Name - Sample Position Application

Middle Paragraphs: The next section of your cover letter should describe what you have to offer the employer. Provide details on your qualifications for the job. Keep the paragraphs single-spaced but leave a space between each paragraph.

Final Paragraph: Conclude your cover letter by thanking the hiring manager for considering you for the job.

Signature: Include your contact information in your signature at the bottom of your email message.

Best Regards,

____________

FirstName LastName Email Address Phone LinkedIn Profile (Optional)

Jobvite. “ Job Seeker Nation Survey 2017 ,” Page 19. Accessed June 15, 2021.

Nancy M. Schullery, Linda Ickes, and Stephen E. Schullery. “ Employer Preferences for Résumés and Cover Letters ,” Business and Professional Communication Quarterly . Accessed June 15, 2021.

Cover Letter Spacing – A Complete Guide

In This Guide:

What's the proper cover letter spacing?

Use a cover letter template

Key takeaways on cover letter spacing.

We all love the feeling of sending in the perfect cover letter, complete with an impressive list of qualifications and skills.

However, many of us focus our attention on the content without considering the format and correct cover letter spacing.

As silly as this may seem, employers look for applications that display meticulous organization. They want to know that their employees can follow instructions and write professionally.

Too much or too little white space in a cover letter can disorient the reader. Luckily, there is an easy way to ensure your cover letter is perfect.

Are you ready to take your cover letter to the next level? In this article, you'll learn:

• How to space your cover letter
• Where to add extra spaces
• How to change spacing settings on Google Docs and Microsoft Word
• Why use a cover letter template
• Where to get a cover letter template

What's the proper cover letter spacing?

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You should format cover letters in single spacing. However, you must leave one extra space between each paragraph.

It includes spacing between the greeting and opening paragraph, the final paragraph and closing, and the closing paragraph and your name.

View these cover letter examples for a clear picture of spacing.

Those using Google Docs can set the default spacing on your document before beginning.

• Click on the "Format" drop-down menu at the top of the document
• Select "Line & Paragraph Spacing"
• Select "Single"

Those using Microsoft Word can follow these steps before beginning:

• Click "Design" on the top menu of the document
• Select "Paragraph Spacing"
• Select "No Paragraph Space"

If you forgot to set single spacing before typing, you could adjust spacing later. Select all of the text and follow the steps above to match your document type.

If you need more tips, here are our guidelines for how to format a cover letter .

Most of us are applying to multiple jobs at once. Finding and applying to jobs can be exhausting, and you must tailor every cover letter to the company and position to which you are applying.

Luckily, there is a shortcut. You can build each one from a cover letter template .

Several other benefits of cover letter templates include:

• Prioritization: It can be challenging to know which information matters most to employers. Templates will show you where each section belongs.
• Professionalism: Templates are well-organized and pleasing to the eye. Hiring managers who view countless applications daily will appreciate your attention to detail.
• Saves time and effort: Cover letter templates are easy to use. They allow you to breeze through formatting and move on to the more important content.

When you write your next cover letter, remember these tips:

• Ensure that you single space your document.
• Set single spacing as the default on your document, or adjust spacing at the end.
• Add extra spaces in between each paragraph.
• Consider cover letter templates.
• Prioritize your information.

Your professional cover letter will make a great first impression on your future employer.

• Cover Letter Guides

Do Cover Letters Need An Address

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How to Set Up Correct Spacing for a Cover Letter

There are several components that go into writing a good cover letter. Using the appropriate spacing can help your cover letter get noticed by hiring managers as well as make sure you present yourself in a professional manner right from the start. This article will discuss how to set up spacing for your cover letter and tips for formatting your cover letter as well as provide a cover letter template and examples you can use when writing your own.

Why is spacing for a letter important?

Spacing for a letter is important primarily because it makes a letter easily readable. Spacing your letter correctly can also ensure a clear and organized appearance rather than a letter that is jumbled together and difficult to read. Additionally, practicing proper spacing in your letters can also help establish yourself as professional as possible to the recipients of your letter(s).

How to set up spacing for a cover letter

Here are steps you can take when setting up spacing for your cover letter:

• First, begin by adding your name.
• Then, insert a single space. Add your address.
• Next, insert a single space. Add your phone number.
• Fourthly, insert a single space. Add your email address.
• Next, insert a single space. Add the date you are writing the letter.
• Then, insert a single space. Add the company name of the recipient.
• Next, insert a single space. Add the address of the company.
• Follow this by inserting a single space. Begin the letter with ‘Dear [hiring manager/interviewer].’
• Then, insert a single space. Include the first paragraph of your cover letter.
• After that, insert a single space. Include the second paragraph of your cover letter.
• Next, insert a single space. Include the third paragraph of your cover letter.
• Then, insert a single space. Write your cover letter conclusion.
• Next, insert a single space. Write ‘Sincerely,’
• Follow the last step by inserting three spaces. Add your name and title.
• Finish the cover letter by signing your name in the area with three spaces between ‘Sincerely’ and your typed name and title.

These steps are meant to be used as a guide when formatting and writing a business letter. You can also review examples to see the specific components you should include in a cover letter, such as the date your letter is being sent and the closing paragraph.

Tips for cover letter spacing

Here are some tips you can implement when formatting your cover letter to ensure proper spacing:

• Use standard one-inch margins when formatting a cover letter
• Align all paragraphs in your cover letter along the left side of the page
• Keep your cover letter to three or four paragraphs, if possible
• Use single spaces when formatting your cover letter
• Leave a space between addresses, dates, heading, greeting and each new paragraph
• Input a minimum of three spaces after the closing statement (such as ‘Sincerely’) and your name and signature
• Include a handwritten signature when sending a physical/hardcopy letter
• Use a font that is 10 or 12 points and is easily readable such as Calibri or Times New Roman

 When using templates, examples or other samples of cover letters it is also important to customize each letter with your personal information and experience as it relates to the job you are applying for.

Cover letter spacing template

The following is a template you can use as a guide when formatting the spacing of your cover letter:

[Your name] [Space] [Your address] [Space] [Your city, state and zip code] [Space] [Your phone number] [Space] [Your email address] [Space] [Date you are writing the letter] [Space] [Dear hiring manager or interviewer name]: [Space] [First paragraph: Use the first paragraph of your cover letter to introduce yourself and why you are writing. You should include the title of the position you are sending in a resume for as well as how you found the job opening if applicable.] [Space] [Body paragraphs: Include two or three body paragraphs in your cover letter that go into detail about why you would be a good candidate for the position you are applying for. You can use specific examples and include mentions of skills or experience that were asked for in the job listing. Try to keep paragraphs short or consider using a bulleted list if appropriate. Include a space between each new paragraph.] [Space] [Concluding paragraph: Wrap up your cover letter by iterating your thanks to the interviewer/hiring manager for their time and consideration. You can also let them know that you are available at certain times if they have any questions or need more information to consider you as a candidate.] [Space] [Sincerely,] [Space] [Space] [Space] [Your signature] [Your name]

Cover letter spacing example

Here is an example of a cover letter using proper spacing throughout:

Carlos Thomas 786 Read Street Tampa, Florida 37691 (555) 555-5555 [email protected]

February 12, 2020

Dear Mr. Marcos:

I am writing to apply for the event coordinator position you currently have open at Anita’s Events in Tampa. With over 10 years of experience in event management and coordination, I believe that my skills and qualifications closely match that of the ideal candidate you are looking to fill this position.

I am currently working as the event coordinator at Edison’s Events and have headed multiple events of all varieties during my time in this position. I work directly with clients to ensure the events we plan and coordinate for them not only meet their expectations but exceed them.

The types of events that I have managed include corporate meetings, tradeshows, holiday parties, product launches, various types of gatherings and festivals. My dedication to providing unmatched customer service and staying abreast of the event management industry has allowed me to:

• Increase my company’s overall revenue by 37% over the last two years
• Achieve and maintain a customer service rating of five stars
• Attract crowds that have exceeded 7,500
• Improve the company’s overall brand recognition and customer database

I have attached my resume to this letter to provide more details as to why I would be a great candidate for this position. In my resume, you will find further examples of my work-related successes as well as the skills and experience that qualify me for this job opportunity. My resume also provides additional details as to the events I have coordinated in various industries including nonprofits, supermarket chains and car dealerships.

If you would like more information related to my experience and qualifications or to set up a meeting, please do not hesitate to contact me at (555) 555-5555. Thank you for time and consideration.

Sincerely, Carlos Thomas

Are Cover Letters Double-Spaced?

Along with the main  peculiarities of cover letter writing , it’s important to know the appropriate format for the winning cover letter. According to the opinion of reliable professionals, cover letters should be single-spaced but the spaces between paragraphs should be double-spaced. Such a format provides readability.

A format is an important factor, which can’t guarantee but accompanies success. Therefore, it’s important to take time and organize the cover letter properly.

So, How Should You Do It?

Contact information must be at the top of the page supported by the formal greeting and a couple of paragraphs with finished ideas.

The section with the contact information should be single-spaced and left-justified. Space needs to be placed between your and the employer’s contact details.

Each of the body paragraphs of your cover letter should be single-spaced, with a space between each paragraph.

Furthermore, it’s crucial to use the same font, margins, and header as you used in the resume.

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Quick Formatting Tips for Cover Letters

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Remember that the basic format of a cover letter follows that of a business letter. As you design the page, think about the following:

• Keep it to one page.
• Write one introductory paragraph, one to three paragraphs to highlight your skills, and one concluding paragraph.
• Single-space your cover letter.
• Leave a space between addresses and dates in the heading.
• Leave a space between your heading (contact info) and greeting ("Dear...:").
• Leave a space between each paragraph.
• Leave at least three spaces between your complimentary close ("Sincerely,") and typed name.
• Sign your name in ink between your complimentary close and typed name.

Margins and Alignment

• Use standard margins (one-inch margins, usually).
• Can use smaller margins (to about 0.7-inch) as long as you are consistent on all sides.
• Align all paragraphs to the left of the page. (You can also indent the first line of each paragraph, but that is not used as often.)

Cover Letter Advice

Cover letter tips.

Like your resume, a cover letter is a sample of your written work and should be brief (preferably one page), persuasive, well-reasoned, and grammatically perfect. Before crafting your cover letters, review the following tips and consult the sample cover letters .

A good cover letter

• Tells the employer who you are and what you are seeking;
• Shows that you know about the particular employer and the kind of work the employer does (i.e., civil or criminal work, direct client service, “impact” cases, antitrust litigation);
• Demonstrates your writing skills;
• Demonstrates your commitment to the work of that particular employer;
• Conveys that you have something to contribute to the employer;
• Shows that you and that employer are a good “fit;” and
• Tells the employer how to get in touch with you by email, telephone, and mail.

Hiring attorneys and recruiting administrators use cover letters to

• Eliminate applicants whose letters contain misspellings (especially of the employer name and the name of the contact person) or other errors;
• Eliminate applicants whose letters show a lack of research, knowledge about, or interest in the employer’s work;
• Eliminate applicants who are unable to exhibit the value they will bring to the employer; and
• See if there are geographic ties or other information to explain the applicant’s interest in that city or employer.

Cover Letter Format

Your current address should be aligned with the center of the page or the left margin. Under your address you should include a telephone number where you can most easily be reached (i.e., your cell phone) and email address. The date is included under that contact information.

Determine to whom you should address the cover letter. If you are applying to law firms, address your letter to the recruiting director, unless you have reason to do otherwise—for example, if you have been instructed to address the letter to a particular attorney at the firm. For NALP member firms, use www.nalpdirectory.com to obtain that contact information. For other firms and public interest employers, you can refer to their websites, or contact the office to determine to whom your materials should be directed. The name of the person to whom the letter is addressed, his or her title, the employer’s name, and address follow the date and are aligned with the left margin. If writing to an attorney, include Esq. after the person’s name. The greeting appears two lines below the employer’s address and should be “Dear Mr.,” “Dear Ms.,” “Dear Mx.,” “Dear [First Name] [LastName],” or “Dear Judge.” When possible, avoid addressing your letter generally, such as Dear Sir or Madam, or “To Whom It May Concern”; instead take the time to find the contact person and address the letter to that individual.

The body of the cover letter ought to be single-spaced with a line between each paragraph. The closing of the letter (“Sincerely” and your signature) should be two lines below the last line of the letter and either in the center of the page or aligned with the left margin, consistent with how you set up the top of your letter.

Cover Letter Body

Although there are many ways to write a cover letter, the following general format has worked well for candidates in the past.

• In the first paragraph of your cover letter, explain why you are sending your application to the employer: “I am an experienced attorney admitted in New York and am seeking a position with the Trusts and Estates practice group at your organization.” Mention your education background very briefly. In addition, if you have been referred by a mutual contact, you should mention that contact in the first paragraph.
• Use the second paragraph to explain your interest in the employer, including your interest in the employer’s geographic location, reputation, specialty area, or public service.
• In the third paragraph, stress why this employer should hire you. Try not to reiterate what is already included on your resume. Elaborate on the qualifications and experience you have that make you an exceptional attorney. As a lateral candidate it is particularly important to show the value you will bring to the organization.
• The final paragraph should thank the employer for taking the time to review your application and inform the employer of how you can be reached to set up an interview. You may wish to state that you will contact the employer in a couple of weeks to follow up and then actually do so. This is especially true with public interest employers who are often understaffed and will appreciate your extra effort.

For additional general cover letter advice from CDO, consult this page . You are welcome to schedule an appointment with a  CDO counselor to review and discuss your cover letter draft.

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