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:

  1. First, begin by adding your name.
  2. Then, insert a single space. Add your address.
  3. Next, insert a single space. Add your phone number.
  4. Fourthly, insert a single space. Add your email address.
  5. Next, insert a single space. Add the date you are writing the letter.
  6. Then, insert a single space. Add the company name of the recipient.
  7. Next, insert a single space. Add the address of the company.
  8. Follow this by inserting a single space. Begin the letter with ‘Dear [hiring manager/interviewer].’
  9. Then, insert a single space. Include the first paragraph of your cover letter.
  10. After that, insert a single space. Include the second paragraph of your cover letter.
  11. Next, insert a single space. Include the third paragraph of your cover letter.
  12. Then, insert a single space. Write your cover letter conclusion.
  13. Next, insert a single space. Write ‘Sincerely,’
  14. Follow the last step by inserting three spaces. Add your name and title.
  15. 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

carlos.thomas@email.com

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