Cover Letter Formatting: Examples & Outline Provided

When it comes to job hunting, your cover letter is often the first impression you make on a potential employer. It’s important to make sure your cover letter is formatted correctly to ensure it looks professional and catches the eye of the person reading it. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about cover letter formatting, including examples and an outline you can follow.

Why Cover Letter Formatting Matters

When you’re applying for jobs, your cover letter is your chance to make a great first impression. Not only does it give you an opportunity to showcase your skills and experience, but it also gives employers a sense of your professionalism and attention to detail. A well-formatted cover letter can help you stand out from other applicants and increase your chances of getting an interview.

Example Cover Letter Formatting

Before we dive into the specifics of cover letter formatting, let’s take a look at an example. Here’s a basic template you can use:

1. Heading

Your cover letter should start with a header that includes your contact information and the date. You can format it like this:

Your Name

Your Address

Your City, State Zip Code

Your Phone Number

Your Email Address

Date

2. Salutation

Next, you’ll want to address the person you’re sending the letter to. If possible, try to find out the name of the hiring manager or recruiter. If you can’t find a name, you can use a generic salutation like “Dear Hiring Manager” or “To Whom It May Concern.”

Here’s an example:

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

3. Introduction

Your introduction should be brief and to the point. Start by stating the position you’re applying for and how you found out about it. Then, briefly explain why you’re interested in the job and what makes you a good fit for the role.

Here’s an example:

I am writing to apply for the [Position] at [Company]. I learned about this opportunity through [Source]. As a [Your Profession] with [Number] years of experience in [Field], I am excited to apply my skills and expertise to this role.

4. Body Paragraphs

The body of your cover letter should be one to two paragraphs that expand on your qualifications and experience. Use specific examples to demonstrate how your skills match the requirements of the job. Make sure to tailor your cover letter to the specific job you’re applying for.

Here’s an example:

In my current role at [Current Company], I have gained experience in [Skill or Experience]. I have also demonstrated my ability to [Skill or Experience] through [Project or Accomplishment]. I am confident that these skills, along with my [Other Skill or Experience], make me a strong candidate for this position.

5. Closing

Your closing should be brief and friendly. Thank the reader for considering your application and express your interest in further discussing the opportunity.

Here’s an example:

Thank you for considering my application for the [Position] at [Company]. I look forward to the opportunity to further discuss my qualifications with you.

6. Signature

End your cover letter with a professional closing and your signature. You can use a closing like “Sincerely” or “Best regards” followed by your name.

Here’s an example:

Sincerely,

Your Name

Outline for Cover Letter Formatting

If you’re not sure where to start with your cover letter, here’s an outline you can follow:

1. Heading

• Your Name
• Your Address
• Your City, State Zip Code
• Your Phone Number
• Your Email Address
• Date

2. Salutation

• Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

3. Introduction

• State the position you’re applying for and how you found out about it.
• Briefly explain why you’re interested in the job and what makes you a good fit for the role.

4. Body Paragraphs

• Expand on your qualifications and experience.
• Use specific examples to demonstrate how your skills match the requirements of the job.
• Tailor your cover letter to the specific job you’re applying for.

5. Closing

• Thank the reader for considering your application.
• Express your interest in further discussing the opportunity.

6. Signature

• Use a professional closing like “Sincerely” or “Best regards” followed by your name.

FAQs

What font should I use for my cover letter?

You should use a professional font like Times New Roman or Arial in size 10-12.

Should I include my GPA in my cover letter?

Only include your GPA if it’s above a 3.0 and the job posting specifically asks for it.

How long should my cover letter be?

Your cover letter should be one page or less.

Can I use bullet points in my cover letter?

Avoid using bullet points in your cover letter as they can make it look cluttered. Instead, use paragraphs to expand on your qualifications and experience.

Should I include references in my cover letter?

No, you should not include references in your cover letter. If the employer wants references, they will ask for them separately.

Can I use a template for my cover letter?

Yes, you can use a template for your cover letter, but make sure to customize it for the job you’re applying for.

How should I address my cover letter if I don’t know the hiring manager’s name?

You can use a generic salutation like “Dear Hiring Manager” or “To Whom It May Concern.”

What should I include in my introduction?

Your introduction should state the position you’re applying for and how you found out about it. Briefly explain why you’re interested in the job and what makes you a good fit for the role.

How can I make my cover letter stand out?

Customize your cover letter for the specific job you’re applying for and use specific examples to demonstrate how your skills match the requirements of the job. Also, make sure your cover letter is well-formatted and error-free.

What should I include in my closing?

Thank the reader for considering your application and express your interest in further discussing the opportunity.

Should I include my salary requirements in my cover letter?

No, you should not include your salary requirements in your cover letter. If the employer asks for them, you can provide them separately.

What should I do if I have gaps in my employment history?

Be honest about any gaps in your employment history and use your cover letter to explain what you were doing during that time. If you were volunteering, freelancing, or taking classes, highlight those experiences and how they have prepared you for the job you’re applying for.

Conclusion

Formatting your cover letter correctly is an important part of making a great first impression on potential employers. Use the example and outline provided in this article to ensure your cover letter looks professional and catches the eye of the person reading it. By following these tips, you’ll be one step closer to landing your dream job.