Best font for your cover letter

The font of a cover letter is one of the factors that affect the readability of your letter. It is therefore one of the factors that affect the first impression you will make.

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By Jagoda Obszarska, Senior Content Editor, TranslatorLast Updated: March 19, 2024
best font for cover letter

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Your cover letter is often the first thing a potential employer sees, so it’s very important to get it right. It’s not just about what you say; the way it looks matters too. In this guide, we’ll help you understand why choosing the right typeface matters and offer practical advice to help you make the best possible impression.

Why cover letter font matters

Before we get into specific recommendations, let’s look at why choosing a font is so important. Think of it as dressing for a job interview – you want to look elegant and professional. The type of font you choose sends a message of attention to detail and professionalism, so get it right.

  • Demonstrates professionalism

    In a professional environment, the font you choose for your cover letter reflects your attention to detail and level of professionalism. Choosing a clean and well-designed font indicates that you are serious about your job application and that you have put effort into presenting yourself in the best possible way.

  • Influences readability

    The main purpose of a cover letter is to communicate information about yourself and your qualifications to the hiring manager. You want to choose a font that is easy to read, therefore increases the chances that your message will be understood clearly and effectively. Fonts with clear lettering and appropriate spacing make it easier to read and understand the text.

  • Helps to make a good first impression

    A cover letter serves as your first introduction to a potential employer. The font you select significantly affects the overall visual appeal of the document and influences the reader’s first impression of you as a candidate. A well-formatted cover letter with an appropriate font can capture the reader’s attention and create a positive first impression, preparing the ground for a positive evaluation of the application.

  • Ensures consistency

    Consistency in the choice of font in application documents, including the cover letter and CV font, is the key to creating a consistent and professional impression. Matching fonts in your documents reinforces your personal brand and ensures a consistent visual presentation. It also helps the reader navigate more smoothly through the application materials, enhancing overall readability and professionalism.

Choosing a font for your cover letter

When it comes to choosing a font for your cover letter, striking the perfect balance between style and practicality is key. After all, you want your letter to not only look neat and professional but also be effortlessly readable. Remember that while the font sets the scene, it’s the content that really steals the show.

Discover your matching cover letter font:

  • Arial

    Simple, clean and easy to read, the Arial font is the perfect choice for any cover letter. Its modern aesthetic retains a touch of sophistication without veering into overly trendy territory, making it equally at home on digital screens or on paper.

  • Calibri

    Exuding a friendly and approachable feel thanks to its rounded edges and spacious lettering, the Calibri typeface offers a contemporary yet professional look. Ideal for those who want to give their cover letter a touch of modern charm.

  • Times New Roman

    An icon of tradition and professionalism, Times New Roman exudes timeless elegance. Its classic serif design makes it a reliable choice, especially in conservative industries or when your preferred font remains a mystery.

  • Garamond

    For those who want to add a touch of sophisticated elegance to their cover letter, Garamond emerges as an impeccable choice. Its graceful lines and refined aura give it a touch of timeless sophistication, ensuring the letter will make a lasting impression in any setting.

The art of cover letter formatting

In the journey of creating an exceptional cover letter, the choice of font is only the beginning. Paying careful attention to formatting is just as important. Here are some expert tips to start your cover letter on the right note:

  • Font size

    Aim for a font size between 10 and 12 points. This is the ideal balance, ensuring optimum readability without overwhelming the reader.

  • Consistent spacing and margins

    Keep spacing and margins consistent throughout your cover letter. Consistency in spacing creates a polished and professional look, seamlessly guiding the reader through the content.

  • Proofreading

    Put on your proofreader’s hat before sending your cover letter. Carefully review your document to catch any unbearable typos or grammatical errors that may have escaped your attention. A carefully crafted cover letter demonstrates attention to detail and a commitment to excellence.

    By following these formatting tips, you will not only increase the visual appeal of your cover letter but also ensure that your message is conveyed in a clear and professional manner. So, with your chosen font and refined formatting, you are well-placed to make a lasting impression on potential employers.

Key takeaways

  • Font choice matters. The font of your cover letter is more than just a stylistic choice; it has a significant impact on readability and influences the first impression you make on potential employers.
  • Recommended fonts for your cover letter include Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman and Garamond, each of which offers a unique combination of legibility, professionalism and style.
  • The formatting of the letter is also important. In addition to font choice, meticulous attention to formatting is essential to creating a flawless cover letter. Consistent spacing, appropriate font size and accurate proofreading all contribute to the overall professionalism of the document, ensuring that the message is communicated clearly and effectively to potential employers.

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Jagoda Obszarska

Senior Content Editor, SEO Content Writer

Meet Jagoda Obszarska – a certified copywriter, Polish language translator, and seasoned career adviser. Thriving on constant self-improvement, she eagerly stays ahead in her field. With a rich background working with individuals from over 50 countries, Jagoda has successfully completed more than a thousand projects in copywriting and translation.

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