what is the size of an application letter

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.

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How to Choose the Best Font and Font Size for Cover Letters

Keep it Professional

Choose one simple font, pick an appropriate font size, how to make your font selection, include plenty of white space, sending email cover letters.

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When you are writing a cover letter , it's important to use a font—or type style—that is clear and easy to read. Consider that hiring managers have to review dozens, if not hundreds, of applicants for a position. They may immediately pass over a cover letter and resume that isn’t instantly legible.

Be sure to make your font large enough so that the reader doesn't have to squint to read your letter, but not so large that your letter doesn't fit well on the page.

When it comes to choosing a font to use in your cover letter, your best bet is to keep it simple and professional. You want your words and message to stand out, not your font choice.

Avoid using unprofessional novelty-style fonts such as Comic Sans, handwriting, or script-style fonts.

Ideally, the font used in the cover letter will be both the same size and style as the one used in your resume, to help you present a cohesive package.

Review these tips for determining the right font for your cover letter, as well as what size it should be, and which styles are and are not appropriate to use in a cover letter.

Using a simple font will ensure that your cover letter is easy to read. Basic fonts like Arial, Courier New, Calibri, Verdana, and Times New Roman work the best. Most word processing and email programs will default to a professional and easily readable choice.

Limit yourself to one font in your cover letter; it's best not to mix several fonts in one document.

There is no need to use different styles in a cover letter. Avoid underlining or italicizing, and use boldface text only when emphasizing quantifiable achievements that need to “pop” on the page.

Depending on how much content you have in your letter, select a 10- or 12-point font size.

It's best if you can format your cover letter so it fits on one page, with margins that are no larger than 1” and no smaller than .7”.

If your letter includes a heading with your name and contacts information, you may choose to make this font slightly larger.

When you are using Microsoft Word, you can select a template for your letter or start from scratch with a new document. If you're using a different word processing program, the process is similar.

• Select a font from the list at the top of your document before you start writing your letter, or:
• Type your cover letter.
• Highlight the content of your letter.
• Either select the font from the pop-up window or select the font from the list at the top of the document.
• Select the font size you want to use the same way.
• Proofread your cover letter.
• Print your cover letter, even if you are going to upload it online, to make sure that it is formatted, properly spaced, and looks the way you want it to.

Regardless of the font size, you select, there needs to be space at the top of the letter and between each paragraph and each  section of your cover letter . Here's how to  space your cover letter .

You may need to try a couple of different sizes to make sure that your cover letter fits on a single page, and you have enough white space in between paragraphs. Review these formatting tips to be sure your letter will make the best impression.

The information above applies primarily to instances where you are sending a traditional cover letter by snail mail or when you are sending a formal cover letter as a Word or PDF attachment to an email message .

Copying and pasting a cover letter into the body of an email message may change the formatting, making it difficult to read for an employer who may have a different computer system.

The safest thing to do when you are copying and pasting your cover letter into an email is to remove the formatting and reformat it as plain text. Send a copy to yourself before you send it to an employer to double-check that it reads correctly.

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How to Write an Application Letter

Last Updated: June 29, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Alexander Ruiz, M.Ed. . Alexander Ruiz is an Educational Consultant and the Educational Director of Link Educational Institute, a tutoring business based in Claremont, California that provides customizable educational plans, subject and test prep tutoring, and college application consulting. With over a decade and a half of experience in the education industry, Alexander coaches students to increase their self-awareness and emotional intelligence while achieving skills and the goal of achieving skills and higher education. He holds a BA in Psychology from Florida International University and an MA in Education from Georgia Southern University. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 166,828 times.

Application letters are typically written to accompany school or job applications. The purpose of the letter is to introduce yourself to the decision committee, and to outline your qualifications in a specific way. It can be the only time other than an interview that you have a chance to really stand out in an application, so it's important to get it right. You can learn what to include in your letter, how to style it, and how to format it to give yourself the best chance.

Application Letter Templates

Writing a Job Application

• A good example would be: "I'm writing to apply for the Chimney Sweep position advertised in Rolling Stone. I think my experience in the heating industry makes me uniquely qualified for this position. Please find my application materials and a brief description of my qualifications below."
• Don't write your name until the signature. It'll be in the header and in the sign-off, so there's no reason to put it in the body of the letter itself.

• Be specific. Who are you? Where do you come from? What's your story? These details are important. HR screeners read hundreds of these.
• Describe your ambitions. Where do you want to go? How will this opportunity help you get there?
• What skills and experiences make you the right fit? Be as specific as possible and avoid vague language. It's better to describe a time you solved a specific problem at your last job than to just write, "I'm a good problem solver at work."

• Tailor it to the business. If you're applying to work at a record store, you need to talk about music. If you're applying to work at a tech company that writes, "Tell us something totally rad about yourself!" it's probably ok to be a little more informal.

• Don't over-promise. Telling someone that you can guarantee that you'll be able to turn around their sales figures in six months or less is a good way to get fired in six months.

• Any kind of job requires this type of research. If you apply to a restaurant, you need to be familiar with the menu and the kind of customers the restaurant attracts. Consider eating there a few times before you apply.
• Don't show you're familiar by criticizing a business and telling them what you can do better. Not the time to offer a harsh criticism of a business plan that you don't really know anything about.

Writing a School Application

• Common prompts include things like, "Outline your qualifications for this position" or "In writing, explain how this position would affect your career goals." Sometimes, the prompt will be as short as, "Tell us something interesting about yourself."
• If there is no prompt, but you still feel the need to introduce your application with a letter, it's usually best to keep it as short as possible. Explain what you're applying for, why you're applying, and thank the contact for their consideration. That's it.

• Often, college prompts will ask you to describe a time you struggled, or a time you overcame some obstacle. Write about something unique, a time that you actually failed and dealt with the consequences.
• The board will get thousands–literally, thousands–of letters about someone's first mission trip, and letters about the time someone's sports team was beaten, then overcame the odds, and won again. Avoid these topics.

• Be specific. If you're writing to a college board, don't say, "I want to go to this college because I need a degree." That's obvious. What do you want to do with it? Why? If you're applying to a business, don't say, "I just need a job." That's obvious. Why this specific job?

• If you're applying to schools, what do you like about the school? What faculty are you interested in? Why this school, instead of another?

Formatting Application Letters

• If you don't get a word-count guideline, just focus on making one or two good points about yourself, and keeping it at that. No need to drone on four several pages.

• Instead of a salutation, write, "Letter of Application" at the top left corner of the page, or put it in the header on the left side at the top.
• If you do have a contact, address it to them, making sure the name is spelled correctly. Then space down and start the body of the letter. [10] X Research source

• Sometimes, it's appropriate to type your name, then print out the letter and sign it in pen. That can be a nice touch.

• Mailing address
• Telephone and/or fax number

Expert Q&A

• Remember to be formal at all times. Do not use abbreviations anywhere. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/how-to-write-an-application-letter
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/subject_specific_writing/professional_technical_writing/tone_in_business_writing.html
• ↑ Alexander Ruiz, M.Ed.. Educational Consultant. Expert Interview. 18 June 2020.
• ↑ https://advice.writing.utoronto.ca/types-of-writing/admission-letters/
• ↑ https://wts.indiana.edu/writing-guides/personal-statements-and-application-letters.html
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/job_search_writing/job_search_letters/cover_letters_1_quick_tips/quick_formatting_tips.html
• ↑ https://writing.wisc.edu/handbook/assignments/coverletters/

About This Article

To format an application letter, start by including your name and contact details in the document header. When choosing a greeting, only use one if you know the person's name your writing to. Otherwise, give the document a title, like "Letter of application" at the top of the page. For the body of the letter, aim to write no more than 1 page of single-spaced paragraphs using a standard font. Finally, conclude your letter with a formal greeting like "Sincerely yours." For tips on how to write a job application letter, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Best Cover Letter Fonts for Applications

When you submit a job application, it’s important that hiring managers can read your cover letter and resume easily. Choosing the right font for your application materials is essential in making this part of the process flow smoothly. In this article, learn what the best cover letter fonts are for your next cover letter.

Why are cover letter fonts important?

Choosing the right font is an important step to making sure your cover letter is legible and professional looking. By selecting a simple, easy-to-read font for your cover letter, you can increase the chance that your job application will make a good first impression on the hiring team.

A cover letter with the correct spacing and size can also make it more visually appealing. A hiring manager may be more likely to read the content of your cover letter if it looks simple and businesslike. 

Sometimes, a hiring team may receive hundreds of applications. Since a cover letter is typically the first document a recruiter reviews, the format should be scannable so they can gather basic information about you and your qualifications. If your cover letter impresses a recruiter, they may be more likely to review the rest of your application materials and invite you to an interview.

How to choose the best cover letter font

Follow these steps to choose the best cover letter font:

1. Choose a font that you can use in your cover letter and your resume

When you’re choosing a font for your cover letter, make sure to pick a font that you can use throughout your application and resume. Using one font for both your cover letter and resume creates consistency and looks more professional. 

2. Opt for a professional and easy-to-read cover letter font

When choosing a cover letter font, select a simple option that conveys your professionalism. Since the hiring team may read your application on a desktop, laptop or mobile device, you should ensure that your cover letter font is easy to read even on smaller screens.

You can choose between a serif and sans serif font type. Serif fonts have small strokes at the ends of letters. Sans serif fonts have no strokes at the ends of letters. Opting for a serif font can add a personal style to your application, while choosing a sans serif font can make your letter look simple and straightforward. 

Here are the most popular cover letter fonts for job applications:

• Times New Roman:  As one of the most common fonts for professional documents, Times New Roman can make your cover letter appear uncomplicated. You can use Times New Roman when applying to most companies. 
• Garamond:  This serif font features a classic appearance that can make both your cover letter and resume look professional. Garamond works best for printed cover letters. 
• Cambria:  For a less formal option, you can consider Cambria. This is the standard font for Microsoft Word since it’s easy to read for many users. 
• Georgia:  If you plan to email your cover letter, Georgia is an ideal font. You can also use it if you need to send your materials as electronic documents. 
• Arial:  This is one of the most popular sans serif fonts, as it is visually appealing on both paper and electronic devices. 
• Helvetica:  Similar to Arial, Helvetica is a simple, straightforward sans serif font. Many people believe Helvetica has a more sophisticated look, making it a popular option.
• Calibri:  With its narrow style, Calibri is easy to read on screens, making it a good choice for electronic applications.

3. Use standard formatting with your font

Your resume might include a variety of text formatting, such as bold or italics, to emphasize various details. However, you should use standard formatting throughout your cover letter for simplicity. 

4. Select a professional font size and use it consistently

Choose a font size that is clearly legible. For most fonts, 12-point is the standard size, but some fonts may look better at 10- or 11-point. To find the ideal size for your cover letter, try each of these standard sizes to find the most legible version. Make sure your cover letter easily fits onto a single page.

5. Use appropriate spacing with your cover letter font

The spacing of your cover letter can also have an effect its readability, so it can be helpful to examine different options. Single, double and 1.5 spacing are the most common selections. Remember to leave 1-inch margins around the edges of the document for additional white space and improved legibility.

6. Review your cover letter font choice before submitting

After selecting a font, size and spacing, review the letter prior to submitting it. Make sure the entire cover letter appears both professional and legible. If you are emailing your application materials, consider sending the email to yourself first so you can review first before sending it to the hiring manager. 

7. Save the font and formatting you use in your cover letter

If you plan to send your cover letter electronically, take steps to preserve the format first. When you email your application in word processing format, such as a Microsoft Word file, the formatting may not transfer correctly. Consider converting your cover letter and resume to a PDF file to retain the style. 

If you intend to copy and paste your cover letter into the body of an email, make sure to reapply the font, sizing and spacing to preserve its appearance.

Font Size of Cover Letter: [Expert Recommendations for Maximum Impact]

When preparing a cover letter, one often-overlooked aspect is the font size. Choosing the right font size can make a significant difference in the overall presentation, readability, and impact of your application. As hiring managers and recruiters receive numerous applications, it’s essential to ensure that your cover letter is visually appealing and easy to read, which can contribute to making a positive first impression.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to selecting the ideal font size, as preferences can vary across industries and organizations. However, there are general guidelines to follow when determining the appropriate font size for your cover letter. Typically, a font size between 10 and 12 points is considered standard for cover letters in most professional settings, as it ensures a balance between readability and aesthetics without appearing cluttered.

Consider the specific industry or company you are applying to, as certain industries may have unique standards or expectations. For instance, creative industries may be more forgiving of vibrant and experimental font choices, while more conservative industries may value a formal and traditional look. By keeping your cover letter’s font size legible, consistent, and well-suited for the target audience, you will effectively convey your message and increase your chances of securing an interview.

Font Size of Cover Letter

When crafting a cover letter, selecting the right font size contributes to a positive first impression. Using an appropriate font size ensures your cover letter is easily legible and visually appealing. Generally, cover letter font size should fall between 10 and 12 points. This range is considered optimal for readability while maintaining a professional look.

To choose an appropriate font size for a cover letter, several factors should be taken into consideration. These include the font type you’ve selected, the length of your letter, and the overall visual impression it leaves on the reader. It’s recommended to test various font sizes within the 10-12-point range to see which one best suits your chosen font and content.

Keep in mind that some fonts appear larger or smaller than their actual size indicates. For example, Arial and Times New Roman are popular choices, but Arial at size 12 may seem larger than Times New Roman at size 12. In such cases, adjust the font size accordingly to provide a well-balanced appearance.

Additionally, using bold text, italics, and bullet points can help emphasize essential information in your cover letter. Be sure to use these formatting options judiciously, as overusing them can create visual clutter and detract from your message. Stick to a simple, clean design that highlights your content while adhering to relevant size guidelines.

In conclusion, choosing the right font size for your cover letter demonstrates your attention to detail and professionalism. Stay within the ideal range of 10-12 points, and ensure alignment with the overall design and chosen typeface. An effective font size will lead to a positive first impression and a higher likelihood of your cover letter receiving the attention it deserves.

Selecting the Appropriate Font

When writing a cover letter, selecting the right font is crucial to make a positive impression on the reader. While the content of your cover letter is important, the font you choose can impact overall readability and professionalism.

The choice of a font depends on several factors such as the typeface, best fonts, and whether it is a serif or sans-serif font. Considering these factors will help you create a visually appealing cover letter that complements your content.

Serif fonts are characterized by a small line or stroke attached to the end of a larger stroke in a letter or symbol. Some of the popular serif fonts include Times New Roman, Georgia, and Garamond. Serif fonts are commonly seen as traditional and professional, making them a good choice for cover letters in formal industries.

On the other hand, sans-serif fonts do not have the additional lines or strokes. Examples include Arial, Helvetica, and Calibri. These fonts are often considered to be modern and clean, which may be fitting for creative industries or companies with a contemporary vibe.

To make the best choice for your cover letter, here are some tips:

• Readability is key. Choose a font that is easy to read at a glance. Avoid overly stylized or intricate typefaces.
• Font size should be between 10 and 12 points for optimal readability.
• Consistency is essential. Use the same font throughout your cover letter and resume to maintain a cohesive look.

In summary, selecting an appropriate font for your cover letter will contribute to giving a confident, knowledgeable, and clear impression. Match the font style with your industry and job position to ensure a cohesive and professional appearance.

Recommended Fonts for Cover Letters

When selecting fonts for cover letters, it’s crucial to choose those that are professional, legible, and visually appealing. Here are some excellent font options to ensure that your cover letter stands out for the right reasons:

Arial is a popular sans-serif font known for its readability and clean design. It is suitable for both print and digital formats.

Calibri has become a standard font for professional documents due to its default status in Microsoft Word and legibility. It’s a modern sans-serif font with a subtle style that looks great on screen and in print.

Garamond is an elegant serif font that adds a touch of sophistication to your cover letter. The timeless design is ideal for those in creative or traditional industries.

Georgia is a versatile serif font that works well on screen and in print. Its strong readability makes it an excellent choice for cover letters that need a good balance between professional and approachable.

Helvetica is a classic sans-serif font well-regarded for its clean and modern look. It lends a professional appearance to cover letters in various fields.

Times New Roman is a traditional serif font that’s been a staple in professional documents for decades. It’s a safe and conservative choice, particularly for formal industries like law or academia.

Verdana is a sans-serif font with a contemporary twist. Its wide letters help ensure clear legibility, making it an attractive choice for cover letters.

Avenir is a modern sans-serif font with a futuristic touch. It’s perfect for those in creative or innovative industries who want their cover letter to have a distinctive look.

Tahoma is a clear, neat, and friendly sans-serif font. Its legibility makes it suitable for cover letters that capture the reader’s attention.

When choosing a font for your cover letter, keep in mind that it should be easy to read and suit the tone of the industry you’re targeting. With one of these recommended fonts, you’ll be sure to create a professional and visually appealing cover letter.

Unsuitable Fonts for Cover Letters

When it comes to cover letters, the choice of font is crucial in creating a professional and polished first impression. While readability and clarity are the main priorities, there are some fonts that should be avoided in cover letters. Using unsuitable fonts can not only make it difficult for the reader to absorb your message but also make your application appear unprofessional.

• Script fonts are generally a poor choice for cover letters because they can be challenging to read, which is essential for a document that aims to communicate your qualifications and work experience. Examples of script fonts that should be avoided are Brush Script , Vivaldi , and Zapfino .
• Decorative fonts deserve mention as well, as they are often overly embellished and can distract from the content of your cover letter. This category includes fonts like Comic Sans , Papyrus , and Curlz MT . These fonts can make your application appear juvenile or unprofessionally designed.
• Another group of fonts that should be evaded are those that lack distinction, as they can cause your cover letter to blend in with the rest instead of standing out. These fonts include Arial , Calibri , and Lato . While they might be easy on the eyes, they may not give your cover letter a memorable visual appearance.

To ensure your cover letter is both visually engaging and easily understood, opt for more professional and universally accepted fonts such as Times New Roman , Garamond , and Cambria . These fonts are not only readable but also convey a sense of professionalism and competency in your writing.

Formatting Tips for Cover Letters

When it comes to creating an effective cover letter, the presentation is just as important as the content. With the right font size and formatting, you can leave a lasting impression on potential employers. Here are some tips to ensure your cover letter looks professional and polished.

Font Size and Typeface : It is crucial to choose a font size and typeface that are easy to read. Generally, a font size of 10 to 12 points is recommended for the body text. Make sure to use a typeface that is clear and professional, such as Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.

Margins and White Space : To make your cover letter visually appealing, it’s essential to have well-balanced margins and white space. Aim for a margin of 1 inch on all sides of the document. Adequate white space between paragraphs, headings, and sections improves readability and gives your cover letter a clean look.

Keep It to One Page : A cover letter should be concise and ideally limited to one page. Employers are more likely to read a short, focused letter than a long, rambling one. Demonstrate your ability to prioritize and communicate effectively by presenting your most relevant qualifications and experiences in a succinct manner.

Alignment and Spacing : For a professional appearance, align your text to the left margin. This ensures consistency and is easier to read than justified text. Use single line spacing in the body of your letter, and add a space between each paragraph and section.

Consistent Format : Maintain a consistent format throughout your cover letter, including font size, typeface, and heading styles. This uniformity not only looks aesthetically pleasing but also allows the reader to easily navigate your document and focus on the content.

By following these formatting tips, you’ll ensure your cover letter stands out for its professionalism and attention to detail.

Structuring a Cover Letter

Include your name, email address, phone number, and the date at the top of the cover letter. Your contact information should be professional, using a common font, such as Times New Roman or Arial, at 10 or 12 points in size.

Begin with a salutation, addressing the hiring manager by name if possible. This demonstrates that you have researched the company and know who you are addressing. It’s also more inviting than a generic greeting such as “To Whom It May Concern.”

Opening Paragraph

The opening paragraph should state your purpose for writing the cover letter. Clearly mention the job you are applying for, and if you have any connection to the company or a referral, include that as well. This sets the stage for the rest of the letter.

Middle Paragraph

The middle paragraph(s) allows you to articulate your qualifications and relevant experiences, providing specific examples to demonstrate your skills. Customize this section for each job application, tailoring it to the employer’s needs. Use bullet points to highlight relevant achievements and accomplishments.

Closing Paragraph

Reiterate your interest in the position and summarize how your skills and experiences make you an ideal candidate. Provide your contact information and express your willingness to discuss further in an interview.

Letter Ending

End your cover letter with a polite and professional closing such as “Sincerely,” followed by your name and signature (if submitting a hard copy). Ensure your email address and phone number are included below your name.

Tailoring Your Cover Letter

When applying for jobs, it is essential to customize your cover letter to address the specific requirements for each role. To accomplish this, pay attention to the job description and integrate the keywords mentioned into your cover letter. Consider the following tips to tailor your cover letter effectively:

• Cover Letter Fonts : Use a professional and easy-to-read font like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Font size should ideally be between 11 and 12 points.
• Header : Include your contact information, the date, and the recipient’s details (company name, job title, and company address) at the top of your cover letter.
• Addressing the Recipient : Whenever possible, address the hiring manager directly by using their name, which you can typically find in the job posting or on the company website. If not, use a neutral salutation like “Dear Hiring Manager.”
• Job Title : Mention the job title you are applying for early in your cover letter (e.g., in the first paragraph). This establishes that your application is targeted towards that specific position.
• Middle Paragraph : This is where you connect your qualifications to the job requirements. Show how your skills and accomplishments are relevant to the position. Demonstrate your understanding of the company’s goals and explain how your experience will help you contribute.
• Company Name : Express your interest in the company by mentioning their name and showing that you are familiar with their values and reputation. This demonstrates your passion for both the role and the organization.
• Communication and Professionalism : Focus on maintaining a clear and concise style throughout your cover letter. Proper grammar, punctuation, and formatting show your attention to detail and professionalism.

By tailoring your cover letter to each job application, you convey your genuine interest in the position and your ability to meet the specific job requirements. Remember, a well-crafted, tailored cover letter can significantly improve your chances of landing an interview.

Digital and Email Cover Letters

When creating digital and email cover letters, it’s essential to choose the right font size to ensure clear communication with potential employers. A well-designed email cover letter should enhance your brand, create interest from clients, and showcase your professionalism.

In general, when sending an email cover letter, either paste it into the body of the email or send it as a PDF attachment. For application systems requiring plain text, make sure to choose a simple font.

An appropriate font size for email cover letters should be between 10 and 12 points. Since different sans serif fonts can have varying readability, it’s crucial to preview the email to ensure it’s visually appealing. Here are some common sans serif fonts that work well for email applications:

During the launch of a project or in regular communication with your clients, consistency is key. Maintain a similar font style and size across all digital communications to establish a coherent brand image. Avoid using fancy typefaces or extremely large or small font sizes, as this can hinder readability.

In conclusion, the appropriate font size and style are vital elements in creating professional and effective digital and email cover letters. By adhering to these guidelines, you can optimize your communication and increase your chances of success in job applications and digital business interactions.

Cover Letter Presentation

A well-presented cover letter can make a significant difference in catching the attention of potential employers. The appearance of your cover letter is crucial, as it is the first impression you will make on the hiring manager. In this section, we will discuss the importance of font size and other formatting elements in presenting a well-crafted cover letter.

The choice of font plays a considerable role in the readability of your cover letter. Using a professional font like Cambria ensures that your document maintains a clean and polished appearance. A font size of 11 or 12 is generally recommended, as it is easily readable without appearing overwhelming or too small.

In addition to font size, keeping a consistent format throughout your cover letter will help create a sense of cohesion and make it easier to read. Align your text to the left and use a single line spacing, with a blank line in between paragraphs. This formatting enhances readability and provides an organized appearance.

When presenting your cover letter, it is essential to remember that hiring managers often review numerous applications. To pique their interest and ensure your cover letter stands out, consider highlighting essential points through the use of bullet points or bolded text. However, don’t overuse these elements, as excessive formatting can appear unprofessional.

Refer to cover letter samples to understand the best practices in formatting and presentation and adapt them to your specific situation. By paying careful attention to the appearance of your cover letter, you’ll increase its readability and make a positive first impression on potential employers. Remember, a well-presented cover letter is the gateway to a successful resume and a step towards securing the job you desire.

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The right letter size should be followed and taken into account when writing letters that are going to be sent to a company , organization , or just a certain person. Adhering to the right size will present an opportunity for the letter to serve its intended purpose and it also preserves the layout of the document.

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Perth insider spills: Why you can’t get a rental (and what to try now)

T he rental market is brutal right now. Not enough supply, too much demand and outrageous cost of living pressures means that competition is fierce and securing a rental is tougher than ever.

As a property manager, I see numerous applications, so I have some insight into why some applications are processed quickly and why other people struggle.

From my perspective, these are the five things that might be holding you back. I’ve also included some tips that could just help get your application noticed.

Your references are taking too long to respond

Before you put someone forward as a personal or work reference on an application, make sure that you’ve had a discussion with them, not only to ask permission, but also so they know responding is a priority. If applications remain incomplete for 24 hours or more, they’re less likely to be shortlisted for a landlord’s approval.

This is a big one, and it’s often where applications fall down. We’re receiving a high volume of applications per day for each rental, so it’s vital to make sure you’re references are up to date and reliable. The applications that are processed and completed the quickest will be put through to the owner first.

You have poor rental references

If you have a poor rental reference in your past, be upfront and talk to the property manager about it. We’re people too, and we understand that in the past you may have lost a job, had an accident or faced some personal challenges that didn’t make you an ideal tenant at the time. It’s always best to be honest, rather than us finding out something about you after you’ve submitted an application.

I’ve just helped a tenant find a place, who was upfront and honest about the fact she’d not been an ideal tenant in the past, due to an accident that meant she was out of work for a time. Because of her honesty I was able to speak on her behalf to a landlord I knew would understand, and now she has a new rental and fresh start.

You’re applying for properties you can’t afford

When you’re looking at rentals, be honest with yourself. As a general rule, try to make sure they don’t exceed 35 per cent of your household income. Property managers want you to be able to pay your rent comfortably. Sit down and budget before you look at rentals, so you know what’s in your price bracket and what’s not.

It’s crucial in the current market to have a “it’s not forever, it’s just for now” mindset.

I’ve seen this time and time again ... if you’re pitching too high in the rental market over and above what you can afford, you will constantly be overlooked because landlords and property managers need to have some peace of mind that you can pay your rent and that they won’t have to chase you constantly.

You’re not being flexible with location and size

If you’re struggling to find a rental in the suburb you’d like to live in, it might be time to widen your search area. Make sure you look at suburbs close by, and on different styles of houses including apartments and townhouses. Don’t be afraid to look at different areas or sizes of homes that might not be your preferred option, but could be a good temporary solution for you and your family.

I had a successful tenant recently who couldn’t find what she was looking for in terms of bedrooms for her three children. So she thought outside the square, and instead looked for a property with two living areas, so she could convert one of those into another bedroom. It’s crucial in the current market to have a “it’s not forever, it’s just for now” mindset.

No cover letter with your application

While a cover letter might seem like an outdated notion, it’s an important part of your application. A good cover letter helps property managers tell your story to the owners, and put your best foot forward in the application process. It helps us if we understand your family dynamic, who will be living at the property, what you do for work and what you enjoy in your social time, so we can create a picture for the owners of who might be living in their house or apartment.

This might seem like an old-school thing to do. But the adage “you never get a second chance to make a first impression” exists for a reason. An application with a cover letter that explains a bit about you will land at the top of the preferred tenant pile every single time. Including a photo is always a bonus.

If you can tick off these five things, I believe you’ll be well on your way to being a successful applicant and securing a great rental to live in.

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Why it matters

The monthly rate of rental growth increased in the year to February (13.9 per cent).

The median house rent rose to $640 per week in January, a 3.2 per cent increase month-on-month and 16.4 per cent higher than January 2023.

The median unit rent also rose, up 1.8 per cent over the month and 20.8 per cent over the year to $580 per week, according to REIWA.

There were 1913 rentals on REIWA at the end of January, 2.1 per cent higher than January 2023.

Homes leased in a median of 16 days during January, one day slower than December and 12 months ago.