How To Match Your Cover Letter With Your Resume [With Examples]

A well-crafted cover letter and resume are essential for a successful job application, and understanding how these two documents should complement each other can significantly improve your chances of landing an interview. Creating a cohesive application package not only demonstrates your professionalism but also helps you stand out in a competitive job market. In this article, we'll explore:

  • The importance of a cohesive application package
  • The role of the cover letter in the application process
  • The role of the resume in the application process
  • Common concerns and questions job seekers have about the relationship between cover letters and resumes
  • An overview of the topics covered in the article

Design and Format Consistency

Ensuring your cover letter and resume have a consistent design and format is crucial for presenting a professional, visually appealing application package. A consistent design helps create a sense of control, familiarity, and reliability, as noted in this CareerFoundry article .

To achieve a cohesive design:

  • Choose a clean, easy-to-read layout: A well-organized layout makes it easier for hiring managers to quickly scan your documents and find relevant information.
  • Use the same font and font size across both documents: Consistency in typography creates a visually harmonious package and demonstrates attention to detail.
  • Align color schemes and design elements: Using a coordinated color palette and incorporating similar design elements, such as lines or icons, can make your application appear more polished.
  • Consider the impact of consistent design on the reader's perception: A well-designed application package conveys professionalism and can leave a lasting positive impression on the hiring manager.

Showcasing Your Personality

Your cover letter should highlight your unique personality and qualities that are not evident in your resume, setting you apart from other applicants. A resume focuses on your skills and professional experience, which may not convey your character and personal attributes. On the other hand, your cover letter provides an opportunity to showcase your communication style, voice, and relevant personal experiences.

For example:

After completing my degree in environmental science, I spent a year volunteering with a local conservation group to protect our community's natural habitats. This experience deepened my passion for protecting the environment and inspired me to pursue a career in sustainability.

By sharing your passion and enthusiasm for the role, you can demonstrate your genuine interest in the position and create a memorable impression on the hiring manager.

Addressing Red Flags

Your cover letter can serve as a valuable tool for addressing potential concerns or red flags in your resume, providing additional context and explanation. Common resume red flags may include employment gaps, frequent job changes, or unconventional career paths. When addressing these concerns in your cover letter:

  • Be honest and transparent about your situation.
  • Explain any personal or professional growth that resulted from these experiences.
  • Provide context for your career choices and demonstrate how they have contributed to your skill set.

For instance:

While my resume may show a gap in employment, I took that time to care for an ill family member. This experience taught me invaluable skills in time management, empathy, and resilience, which I believe will make me a stronger candidate for this position.

Customizing for the Specific Job Position

Customizing your cover letter for the specific job position and company you are applying for is essential for demonstrating your fit for the role and your genuine interest in the company. To tailor your cover letter:

  • Research the company and job position: Familiarize yourself with the company's values, mission, and goals, as well as the skills and qualifications required for the role.
  • Identify key skills and qualifications required for the role: As mentioned in this Indeed article , analyze your skill set and match it with the job requirements.
  • Address these requirements in your cover letter: Explain how your experience and skills make you an ideal candidate for the position.
  • Use company-specific language and terminology: This demonstrates your familiarity with the company and its industry.

Avoid using generic templates and create a customized cover letter for each application to show that you have taken the time to research and understand the specific job opportunity.

Connecting with the Company

Your cover letter should demonstrate your understanding of the company's values, mission, and goals, and how your skills and experience align with these factors. To establish a genuine connection with the company:

  • Research the company's values, mission, and goals: Use resources like the company's website, press releases, and social media accounts to gather information.
  • Identify your own values and goals that align with the company: Reflect on your personal and professional aspirations and how they relate to the company's mission.
  • Demonstrate how your experience and skills will contribute to the company's success: Explain how your background will add value to the organization.
  • Express enthusiasm for the company's products or services: Show your genuine interest in what the company does and how it aligns with your passions.

Examples Of How To Match Your Resume With Your Cover Letter

When crafting your job application materials, it's crucial to ensure your cover letter and resume complement each other. They should serve as two parts of a whole, providing a complete and compelling portrait of your skills, experiences, and professional history. Here are a few ways to match your resume with your cover letter effectively:

1. Tailored Skills Highlighting:

In your resume, you've listed down your technical and soft skills, such as team management, Python programming, or business analytics. When you write your cover letter, refer back to these skills and give concrete examples. If your resume states, "Proficient in Python," your cover letter might include a story of how you used Python to streamline a business process, boosting efficiency by 30%.

2. Reinforcing Achievements:

Your cover letter is a chance to flesh out the notable achievements listed in your resume. For instance, if your resume states, "Increased sales by 20% over a fiscal year," your cover letter could detail how you motivated the team, developed a sales strategy, and persevered through market challenges to achieve this.

3. Echoing the Professional Summary:

Your resume's professional summary is a snapshot of your career. In your cover letter, you can echo this summary in a narrative form. For example, if your summary describes you as a "Dedicated financial analyst with a passion for data-driven strategies," you might begin your cover letter with a story that shows this passion in action.

4. Expanding on Key Experiences:

A resume often contains bullet points about job duties and responsibilities. In your cover letter, select a few of these key experiences and describe them in more depth. If your resume says, "Managed a team of 10 sales associates," your cover letter might tell a story about a challenging time when your leadership skills really made a difference.

5. Mirroring Language and Tone:

Your resume and cover letter should not only share content but also style. If your resume is written in a formal, professional tone, maintain this in your cover letter. If your resume uses specific industry jargon or phrases from the job listing, mirror this language in your cover letter.

Remember, while your cover letter and resume should complement each other, they shouldn't be carbon copies. The cover letter allows you to show a bit more of your personality and to highlight your suitability for the role in a story-like format. In contrast, your resume offers a structured, concise overview of your skills, experiences, and achievements. By thoughtfully aligning these two documents, you can present a powerful and consistent professional brand.

Final Tips and Best Practices

By following some final tips and best practices, you can ensure your cover letter and resume are cohesive, professional, and compelling:

  • Proofread and edit both documents for grammar, spelling, and formatting errors.
  • Seek feedback from trusted friends, mentors, or professional resume services.
  • Utilize online resources and templates to guide your cover letter and resume creation, such as Harvard College's guide or HigherEdJobs' resources .
  • Continuously update and improve your application materials as you gain experience and skills.
  • Stay informed about industry trends and expectations for job applications.

By understanding how your cover letter and resume should complement each other and following the strategies outlined in this article, you can create a polished, professional application package that stands out to potential employers. Investing time and effort in crafting cohesive application materials can significantly improve your chances of landing an interview and advancing your career. We encourage you to continue refining your cover letter and resume skills and wish you success in your job search. If you have any additional tips or experiences with matching cover letters and resumes, please share them with us!

Finally! The Answers to All Your Questions About Resume Fonts and Sizes

person sitting and looking at their laptop

Writing a resume involves a lot of decision-making. There are the major choices like what information to include, how to include it , and what resume format is best for you. But sometimes the minor details can trip you up too. What font and font size to use on your resume are decisions that feel like way bigger a deal than they probably should—as anyone who’s ever spent 45 minutes agonizing between Arial and Helvetica can attest. The good news is, the choice is relatively straightforward.

The goal of your font and font size choices is to present your resume information in a way that is both readable and aesthetically pleasing. Here’s what to consider, plus the best fonts and font sizes for your resume according to The Muse’s expert career coaches.

Why Does Your Resume Font Matter?

There are two reasons your resume font matters, according to Muse career coach Heather Yurovsky , founder of Shatter & Shine . “The first is your human resume reader,” she says. “The aesthetics of a resume are important because it gets your reader to focus on the actual content and your experience rather than being hung up on poor font choice.” So you want a font that is very readable and isn’t distracting.

The second reason your font choice matters? The applicant tracking system (ATS). ATSs are programs that help recruiters and hiring managers organize and search resumes, but they “read” some fonts better than others. “The goal is to have your resume pass seamlessly through an ATS so, like the human resume reader, it can focus on the content of the document,” Yurovsky says.

What Are the Best Resume Fonts?

What kinds of fonts fit both these considerations? Put simply, the classics: the fonts that come standard across a range of programs and aren’t overly flashy or designed. These fonts became standard because they’re easy on human eyes, and since they’re standard, ATSs are programmed to read them.

Here are the best fonts according to our experts:

  • Times New Roman

Arial is the font most commonly recommended by our experts. Times New Roman was the go-to font for so long that some of our experts now say it appears dated, but it’s still a safe choice in terms of readability.

How Do You Pick a Resume Font?

So how do you know which of these more traditional, easy-to-read fonts you should pick? That depends on your personal preference and what you think sends the right message for your resume. “The saying, ‘Dress for the job you want’ applies to font choice too!” Yurovsky says.

You might want to consider whether a serif or sans serif font is best for you. If you want to make your resume look more modern (if, for example, you work in tech) you might choose a sans serif font like Arial or Calibri, and avoid serif fonts like Times New Roman and Georgia, says Muse career coach Debra Boggs . But if you work in higher education or the medical field, a serif font like Georgia would be appropriate.

To figure out which type of font you’re looking at, check the capital Ts—if the top has short lines hanging down on either side, those lines are serifs. But if the top of the T is a single line straight across, you have a sans serif font.

Once you’ve decided between serif and sans serif, choosing a font comes down to which one looks best to you!

What Kinds of Fonts Should You Stay Away From?

Now that you have a sense of the classic fonts and basic considerations, you should also know there are a few things you should avoid:

  • Heavily stylized fonts: “Although pretty and design-oriented, stay away from heavily stylized fonts like modern cursive fonts,” since ATSs can’t read them, Yurovsky says, and humans might have trouble, too.
  • Narrow, condensed, or light fonts or versions of fonts: These fonts can be harder on human eyes, especially when you’re reading on a screen.
  • Non-standard, downloaded, or custom fonts : Fonts that aren’t standard to most operating systems may be converted inaccurately by an ATS, says Muse career coach Tina Wascovich .
  • Gimmick fonts: Your resume is a professional document, so your font choice should also be professional. Stay away from fonts like Comic Sans, Papyrus, and, of course, Wingdings.

How Do You Keep It Interesting?

These suggestions and guidelines might sound boring, but don’t worry, “You can still have an aesthetically pleasing resume by using the good old fonts we’ve seen over and over again,” Yurovsky says.

For example, you can use bold and italics for job titles or company names to add to the visual appeal, Muse career coach Jillian Lucas points out. You can also use color and underlines, in moderation—too many colors will look unprofessional and underlining should be reserved for headings since people (and ATSs) tend to read underlined text as hyperlinks.

You can also choose to use multiple fonts on your resume, but make sure to keep it simple. Pick one font for your name and section headings and another, complementary font for the rest of your content, Yurovsky says. More than two fonts will start to distract the reader.

How Do You Choose a Font Size?

When choosing font sizes, you want to find a balance: “Too large a size and your resume is likely to be more than one page without necessarily having the years of experience to back up that resume length,” Yurovsky says. But if you go too small, Lucas says, “the recruiter will be squinting to read your resume. This is the last thing you want and will likely land you in the no pile.”

Your font size doesn’t need to be uniform across your resume. You can change it up to help make your important information—like section headings—stand out. Just be sure to use the same font size for each type of information across your resume and make sure the relative sizes are logical. For example, if you’re using Calibri, Boggs recommends 10.5 point font for bullets and 12 or 14 for company names, dates, and past job titles.

“I always say to build your resume with the sizes you want and see where you land.” Yurovsky says. If you’re spilling onto the second page, consider decreasing one or more of the font sizes while still keeping it readable. But be careful, Muse career coach Leto Papadopoulos says: “I see a lot of people trying to cram in their info with a small font size.” You’re better off looking for other ways to get your resume down to one page .

On the other hand, if you have a lot of white space at the end , you might consider making your fonts a bit bigger. But don’t go overboard and set your bullets to size 16 just to take up more of the page. Recruiters will see right through that.

What Are the Best Resume Font Sizes?

Which exact font sizes are best for your resume will vary based on the font you’ve picked and your situation. So choose your font first and use your own judgement to determine which font sizes are most appropriate.

Here are some general guidelines from our experts to get you started:

  • Your Name: 20-24 point
  • Headings and Subheadings: 11-14 point
  • Body Text and Your Contact Info: 10-12 point

Ultimately, the most important component of your resume is the content. Your font and font size choices should be about making sure your content is clear so you can convince the reader you're right for the job.

should cover letter and resume have same font

Choosing a Resume + Cover Letter Font? 10 Tips & Examples

What is the best font for your resume? It’s not a loaded question. Too often people over think typography choices for resumes or cover letters because they think the type has to look “designed.” The reality is that it just needs to be highly readable.

So where do you start? Today, we’ve got ten great options to help you choose a readable, well-designed typeface to help your resume or cover letter stand out.

All these fonts stand out from the crowd, while also keeping your resume clear, classy, and readable!

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1. Bolt Sans

best font for resume

The number one thing to think about when choosing a cover letter or resume font is how will it look in print? There are so many great typefaces available for download, but they aren’t all designed to be printed.

You need a high-quality typeface with an extensive character set so that you won’t be struggling to find certain characters or print elements later.

Bolt Sans is a simple sans serif with a modern feel. It has normal spacing (so it won’t be tough to use with larger text blocks) and has a light minimal feel. The characters are exceptionally easy to read while maintaining some personality.

Pro tip: Use the same typeface for your resume, cover letter and portfolio website. By selecting a font that includes web font options, you don’t have to worry about matching typefaces from print to web. (Bolt includes OTF, TTF and web fonts.)

2. Addington CF

best font for resume

A strong serif typeface can communicate reliability and professionalism. This might communicate just what you want to a potential employer.

Addington CF is a strong sans serif in a modern style. The trusty typeface looks lovely at almost any size and is highly readable.

Pro tip: When using a serif typeface consider using it as the body text element while pairing it with a sans serif for headers or other display elements within the resume.

3. RNS Sanz

best font for resume

What is the best font for your cover letter? Start with a typeface that’s strong and looks great at small sizes and in heavier text blocks. You might have to try the text out to see how it looks before committing to a certain typeface.

Pro tip: Stick to dark text on a light background (black on white is idea) for your resume and cover letter. Reverse type or colors can be difficult to read (or control based on individual printers) and should be avoided.

4. CA Texteron

best font for resume

Small details are the things that set the best fonts apart from the rest. When picking out a typeface, look for details that appeal to you and your style.

CA Texteron is a great example because it includes stunning serifs with interesting shapes with round and edgy letterforms.

Pro tip: Read font descriptions and look for weights that work in smaller sizes and with decent letterspacing. Low-contrast stroke weights are also more ideal.

5. Quiche Font Family

best font for resume

There no rule that says you need to construct a resume or cover letter with a serif or sans serif. Either option can work quite well, and you probably want to make a choice based on the personality you want to showcase.

Quiche Font Family is an easy readying, high-contrast type family with a lot of extras, including swashes, alternates, and ligatures to help you add a little something extra to your job inquiry. It also toes the line between serif and sans serif with display options that have more polish (and ball terminals) than the standard regular or thin weights.

Pro tip: Choose a robust font family and stick to style within the family for your resume and cover letter package. You don’t need a collection of fonts here; one great font can be a do-it-all solution. (The Quiche Display option makes for great headers.)

6. Fibon Sans

best font for cover letter

Help your resume and cover letter stand out with a typeface that isn’t the default in standard word processing software.

Fibon Sans has just enough personality to stand out without sacrificing readability. It’s modern and has weights that are appropriate for large blocks of copy (like you might find in a cover letter).

Pro tip: Avoid typefaces that include limited character sets or only all capitals. Your resume and cover letter need a mix of upper and lowercase styles for ease of readability.

7. Colorado

best font for cover letter

If you have a lot of information, you might feel inclined to use a more condensed typeface. Do so with caution.

Colorado is a nice option because it has a medium stroke width with clean and minimal lines.

Pro tip: If you plan to use a more condensed typeface, opt for one with a thicker stroke weight. Thin lines and condensed lettering can be a dangerous mix.

best font for cover letter

It’s OK to pick a fun font option for your resume and cover letter. The key is to balance light-feeling elements with a strong overall presence and readability.

Auro has a light feel with flowing shapes while maintaining readability. The typeface is fun but not too much fun for a resume or cover letter.

Pro tip: It (almost) goes without saying but stay away from Comic Sans or any typeface that seems too light. Emojis and smiley faces are not acceptable.

9. Modelica

best font for cover letter

The description of this typeface says it all: “Modelica is a minimal, robust, reliable and pragmatic geometric sans. Its clean shapes and generous x-height make it a very competent face for both, display and body copy purposes.”

The smooth geometry of this typeface in combination with multiple widths and styles makes it versatile and easy to work with.

Pro tip: Use bolder thicker weights for can’t miss elements in your resume or cover letter such your name or headers throughout the resume. Don’t use super condensed variations as a “trick” to cram more information in; because they can get tough to read when there’s a lot of information to digest.

10. Venice Serif

best font for cover letter

A super simple serif can help you tell a story on your resume without getting in the way of your portfolio.

Venice Serif is modern and stylish, with plenty of functionality. It has an almost monospaced style with a tall x-height that makes it look classic but more polished than some other similar options.

Pro tip: This font style is reminiscent of code. (Maybe it is the shape of the letters.) Use it for a resume that includes coding or development in your skill set. Even if that’s not the main focus area of the job you are applying for, this font style can subtly reinforce that idea.

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Choosing The Best Font For Cover Letters and Resumes

  • Cover Letter Format
  • Salutation and Greeting
  • Who To Address When Unknown
  • How To Start A Cover Letter
  • How To End A Cover Letter
  • Best Cover Letter Font And Size
  • Cover Letter Spacing
  • Cover Letter Length
  • Key Elements Of A Cover Letter
  • How To Write An Address
  • Official Letter Format
  • Cover Letter Opening

Find a Job You Really Want In

When seeking the ideal job, your cover letter font, as well as your resume font, are your initial opportunities to showcase your qualifications and professionalism. Your choice of fonts and font size plays a pivotal role in leaving a lasting impression on potential employers. Discover how selecting the best cover letter fonts and font sizes for your application can significantly impact your job application’s success.. Key Takeaways: Pick the appropriate font for the role and be stylistically consistent throughout your resume . This helps makes a more professional appearance Good choices for standard, professional fonts to use on a resume include Times New Roman, Arial, Helvetica, and more – always stick to fonts that look simple and clean. A page that’s too cluttered with text looks unprofessional and doesn’t give the hiring manager a good reading experience, so make sure to use white space appropriately. In This Article    Skip to section Why does font matter in a cover letter? Picking an appropriate font size for a cover letter Personalize your font selection Including white space Reminders for email cover letters Best fonts for your resume 2023 FAQ Final thoughts Sign Up For More Advice and Jobs Show More Why does font matter in a cover letter?

Choosing the right cover letter font and resume font is important because can make or break whether your document is visually appealing and giving the impression you want. To pick your cover letter’s font, you should first think about what your intention is for your letter. For cover letters, the main intention is for your words and message to do all the talking. This means the font should not be artsy, fun, or obscure. It should allow your words to be immediately legible.

Additionally, consider being consistent in your font choice for both your cover letter and resume. The stylistic consistency may seem like a small detail, but it allows for recruits or hiring managers to easily flow from one document to the next, without any distractions in the way.

Picking an appropriate font size for a cover letter

The size of your font is equally as important as choosing the correct font for your cover letter. If the text of your letter is too small or visibly challenging, your application might be passed up for another candidate.

There are three general options when picking a font size, 10, 11, or 12. Your cover letter should always fit on one-page, so consider this when formatting your first draft. A smaller font is appropriate if it helps keep all of your text on one page. However, if your cover letter is on the shorter side , choosing font size 12 is equally as appropriate.

It’s also important to note that different fonts come in a variety of sizes.

Once your cover letter is written, spend some time on formatting to make sure it looks good and fits on one page. If you have already selected the smallest size and your copy bleeds into a second page, try adjusting the margins or see where you can cut to condense the letter.

Personalize your font selection

While there is no science behind picking the perfect font, there are specific fonts that are highly regarded for their perception of being easily readable, professional, and clean. Below, we outline some of the best cover letter fonts to choose from.

Arial features crisp lines and no-frills, an easily readable and familiar font for a cover letter . Being one of the most popular cover letter fonts in the world, it’s also beneficial as the standard font for Microsoft Word and Google Docs. There’s a good chance your recruiter or hiring manager has this font existing in their word processor of choice.

Avenir is a good way to be bold on your resume and cover letter but without taking the risk. This font features playful curves that help liven up any piece of copy to stand-out in the best way possible. It’s a good choice of font if you are looking to get into the design space or any creative type of job.

Calibri was initially designed by Microsoft as a candidate to replace Times New Roman in Word, and it’s a standard font usually found on resumes or cover letters. With its clean and simple typeface, it’s easily one of the most readable fonts out there. It’s both familiar and friendly, a great choice for any cover letter.

Cambria has a serif face and traditional design that makes it easy to read both in print or on the computer screen, even in low resolutions. The even spacing and proportions make this an ideal choice for cover letters.

Garamond is a more delicate font, but with a classic serif form, good for conveying an air of sophistication on resumes. Based on sixteenth-century designs, the Garamond style typefaces are perfect for both print and digital cover letters readability.

Georgia is a popular font developed by Microsoft, and can be a good choice for cover letter font because it’s unique yet clean. The serif typeface is both elegant and legible, with a mixture of both thick and thin strokes. This font is also used by Georgiacompanies in their branding, such as Amazon and the New York Times.

Helvetica is one of the most widely used sans-serif fonts in the world. Its neo-grotesque design was first brought to popularity by Swiss designers. Its neutral and clean look has made it a top choice for many businesses.

Times New Roman is the most traditional font of all, and is likely the most popular choice for resume font. It is popular for most job seekers with its simple and elegant design. Keep in mind that since this is one of the most common resume and cover letter fonts, it’s not something to use if you’re looking to be unique or convey creativity. But that’s not to say it’s not a great choice. This is a safe and easy font choice for your cover letter.

Trebuchet MS is a great font choice if you are looking to fill a little extra space on your cover letter. Being a bit broader with thicker lines, this font will fill the page and allow for easy readability. It’s also a common font found in most word processors and Google Docs.

Verdana was initially designed to be readable in small sizes and on low-resolution screens, making it perfect if you need to use a smaller font size for your cover letter. It has a large x-height with wide proportions and letter-spacing to allow for easy legibility.

Montserrat is a contemporary sans-serif font that reads as both stylish and legible on cover letters. Its clean and minimalist design, coupled with uniform stroke widths, lends a modern and fresh look to your application materials. Montserrat is an excellent choice for those seeking a clean and trendy aesthetic while maintaining readability and professionalism in their resume or cover letter.

Baskerville is a classic serif font known for its elegance and readability, two qualities you may want to embody when writing your cover letter. With roots dating back to the 18th century, Baskerville offers a sense of tradition and sophistication. The well-defined letterforms and high contrast between thick and thin strokes make it a perfect choice for conveying professionalism and attention to detail in your resume or cover letter.

Going with one of the listed fonts for your cover letter and resume puts you in a good place for the formatting of your cover letter. As with many things, font choice is subjective, and you should make the choice you feel most comfortable with.

The last thing to be mindful of is how many fonts you choose to use for your cover letter.

Since there are a few different pieces to a cover letter, you may be tempted to use different fonts for headers , introductions , or conclusions . However, it’s good practice to only use one font for your cover letter. Maintaining this consistency ensures a smooth reading process for your recruiter or hiring manager.

Including white space

When formatting your cover letter, it’s always important to remember that there is a significant amount of space required at the top of your letter. Additionally, you should leave white space between each paragraph and each new section of the cover letter .

Usually, word processors have templates that you can use to make sure you properly space your cover letter. Again, don’t forget that your entire cover letter should fit on a single page, so it’s important to take some time to play with the formatting once you are done writing your letter. Perfecting your formatting ensures you will make a stellar first impression.

Reminders for email cover letters

The best practices outlined in this article are mostly for cover letters that are in hard-copy or emailed as a Word document or PDF attachment. If your job application instructs you to include your cover letter in the body of the email, you might be tempted to copy, paste, and send.

However, be mindful of how the formatting shifts when you copy and paste things into an email, making it tricky for the hiring manager or recruiter to read. Be sure you either fix the formatting in the body of the email or copy and paste it as plain text directly into the email.

Best fonts for your resume 2023 FAQ

What role does font choice play in my resume and cover letter?

Font choice plays a crucial role in your resume and cover letter as it directly impacts readability and the overall impression you make on potential employers. The right font can enhance professionalism, clarity, and visual appeal, while the wrong choice can distract from your content or make it difficult to read.

Should I use a serif or sans-serif font for my resume and cover letter?

Whether to use a serif or sans-serif font depends on your personal preference and the style you want to convey. Serif fonts, with their small decorative strokes, often exude tradition and professionalism. On the other hand, sans-serif fonts are clean and modern, offering a sleek and contemporary look. Ultimately, the choice should align with your industry and the image you want to project.

Final thoughts

The font you choose is your resume’s first impression, so choosing the right one can you get your job applications started on the right foot. The way your resume is organized and how it looks at a glance can say a lot about you even before the hiring manager even starts to read it.

Be sure to use a simple, professional font and break your resume down into sections balanced out by plenty of white space.

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Caitlin Mazur is a freelance writer at Zippia. Caitlin is passionate about helping Zippia’s readers land the jobs of their dreams by offering content that discusses job-seeking advice based on experience and extensive research. Caitlin holds a degree in English from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, PA.

Matt Warzel a President of a resume writing firm (MJW Careers, LLC) with 15+ years of recruitment, outplacement, career coaching and resume writing experience. Matt is also a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and Certified Internet Recruiter (CIR) with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Marketing Focus) from John Carroll University.

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How to End a Cover Letter

How To End A Cover Letter (With Examples)

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

should cover letter and resume have same font

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.

Should Your Cover Letter and Resume Templates Match?

Frank Hackett

Your Cover Letter and Resume Should Match

How to pick the best cover letter and resume template, cover letter and resume templates and examples, frequently asked questions: cover letter and resume examples and advice.

Should Your Cover Letter and Resume Templates Match?

Writing a matching cover letter to complement your resume can go a long way in strengthening your job application. This is an opportunity to provide unique insights into your brand that may not always fit on a resume.

If you’re sending your cover letter as an attachment, this is a good way to create consistency across both documents. On the other hand, sending your cover letter in the body of an email can sometimes be advantageous to maximize visibility. This guide provides expert tips to help you find the ideal format and approach according to your career goals and individual needs.

A well-written cover letter should complement your resume in style and content. Be sure all of these elements match when you create your cover letter and resume together:

  • Font and font size
  • Layout, including margins and paragraph spacing
  • Contact information

An easy way to make sure your cover letter and resume match is to use the same template for both documents.

Selecting a properly structured template for both types of documents is key. Below, we’ll provide insights to help you pick the best cover letter and resume template for your unique situation.

1. Prioritize structure and readability

When applying for a job, put your qualifications, experience, and achievements front and center. Although resumes and cover letters adhere to different structures, your template should have a format that facilitates both. This means avoiding formats that feature multiple columns or unwieldy headers. Use a simple, basic template that employs a single-column, top-down approach to create a smooth reading experience for the hiring manager.

2. Avoid flashy colors and graphics

You can select an aesthetically pleasing resume template, but be tactful in balancing visual appeal with content organization. Employing flashy colors and graphics can sometimes distract the reader from your professional experience and achievements, so choose a format that won’t overwhelm your qualifications. Avoid photograph templates so you don’t invite bias or potential HR issues.

3. Choose a simple, elegant font

Choosing the right font is incredibly important when selecting your cover letter and resume template. If a hiring manager is struggling to read your documents because your font is too small or hard on the eyes, they won’t be able to engage with your content fully.

Avoid generic and overly decorative fonts such as Futura, Courier, or Comic Sans. Use a sleek, elegant, and easy-to-read font, such as Cambria, Garamond, or Calibri. For font size, opt for 11 points in most instances. This ensures your content is readable without taking up too much page space.

4. Use proper spacing and formatting

Proper spacing and formatting are crucial for any cover letter and resume template.

If your template lacks sufficient white space, your content may appear like an impenetrable wall of text. On the other hand, too much white space may cause your document to look barren or padded. Single spacing is typically recommended for cover letters. Also, have three to four lines of space between your salutation and your opening paragraph.

5. What is the ideal length for a cover letter and resume?

A cover letter should never exceed two pages, but the same can’t be said for the resume. The ideal length for your resume is entirely contingent on your years of experience and individual career goals. If you’ve spent 10 years in the technology industry and can’t list your achievements, don’t restrict yourself to a single page. But if you’re at the entry level or making a career transition, a one-page document is more appropriate. This keeps the focus of your resume on your most relevant qualifications, education, and experience.

  • Resume Template and Example #1
  • Cover Letter Template and Example #1

Samantha Taylor (123) 456-7890 [email protected] 123 Your Street, San Francisco, CA 12345

A senior user experience (UX) designer with over 10 years of experience, specializing in UX research, design systems, UI prototyping, and user-centered design. A proven track record of managing UX teams to develop design solutions for an unparalleled UX. Adept at leading all aspects of the creative process and collaborating with C-level stakeholders.

Professional Experience

Senior UX Designer, Employee Software Inc., San Francisco, CA May 2015 – present

  • Manage a team of over 25 UX designers to develop a new user interface (UI) for an HR software application generating $30 million in revenue, which includes coordinating all phases of design, prototyping, and quality assurance testing
  • Conduct UX research to develop user stories and customer personas, including identifying design solutions to build a unified customer experience
  • Interfaced with C-level executives to review user interviews and provide recommendations on large-scale enhancements to UI design

UX Designer, LinkedIn, San Francisco, CA May 2011 – May 2015

  • Coordinated with a team of web developers, application developers, and UX designers to refine the functionality and UX of a leading website for job seekers, resulting in a 15% in user satisfaction surveys
  • Developed visual diagrams and wireframes for new pages and created new interactions using design thinking principles
  • Provided design support for the UI development of the LinkedIn mobile application, which garnered over 3 million downloads within six months of launch

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) UX Design  University of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA September 2007 – May 2011

  • UX research
  • UI prototyping
  • Project management
  • Design systems

Certifications

  • NN/g UX Master Certification, 2015
  • Google UX Design Professional Certificate, 2011

Samantha Taylor UX Designer | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | 123 Address St., San Francisco, CA 12345

January 1, 2022

Arthur Jones Hiring Manager Peoplesoft (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Jones,

With over 10 years of experience within the UX design industry, I’ve developed an advanced understanding of web development and user-centered design. As a Senior UX Designer at Employee Software Inc., I led the development of a new UI for an HR software application generating $30 million in revenue. I believe my unique approach to UX design would be a valuable asset to your organization.

Peoplesoft’s reputation for thought leadership within the HR software space draws me to apply for the position. My experience as a UX Designer for both Employee Software Inc. and LinkedIn has allowed me to develop an innovative approach to deliver a holistic experience for users that aligns with your organizational needs. I am confident that I can continue to grow your reputation as an industry leader based on the following achievements from my career:

  • Managed a team of more than 25 UX designers for Employee Software Inc. and interfaced with stakeholders and C-level executives to recommend large-scale redesigns for the mobile UI
  • Improved the UX for LinkedIn’s website in coordination with a team of web developers and UX designers, which improved user satisfaction by 15%
  • Drove UI development and conducted wireframing for the launch of LinkedIn’s mobile app, which generated 3 million in downloads over a six-month period

I look forward to speaking with you further regarding how my strong background as a thought leader in UX design can help Peoplesoft deliver a truly unified experience for users. You may contact me via phone and email at your earliest convenience. I appreciate your time and consideration.

Samantha Taylor

  • Resume Template and Example #2
  • Cover Letter Template and Example #2

Alicia Jones (123) 456-7890 [email protected] 123 Your Street, Los Angeles, CA 12345

A case manager with over 10 years of professional experience, specializing in treatment planning, mental health services, substance abuse issues, and community outreach. A strong history of providing essential resources to clients to facilitate recovery from addiction. Adept at interfacing with diverse populations and building long-term relationships with clients.

Case Manager, Los Angeles Rehabilitation, Los Angeles, CA May 2014 – present

  • Oversee more than 150 cases related to substance abuse and alcoholism and partner with multidisciplinary teams to identify appropriate treatments based on mental health assessments, background, and addiction
  • Serve as a client advocate during treatment and court hearings, interface with state agencies and law enforcement, coordinate treatment plans and patient stays
  • Improve positive patient outcomes by 30% in coordination with program management teams by implementing new clinical approaches to substance abuse treatment

Case Manager, San Jose Rehab Facility, San Jose, CA May 2011 – May 2014

  • Managed over 60 cases of substance addiction involving narcotics and alcohol, created documentation of patient history and medical records, and identified community resources for treatment and rehabilitation
  • Enhanced case management procedures and improved communication across the facility by leading the development and implementation of standardized case review processes

Master of Science (M.S.) Social Work University of Los Angeles, Los Angeles September 2014 – May 2016

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Social Work University of Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA September 2007 – May 2011

  • Case management
  • Substance abuse
  • Treatment planning
  • Organizational leadership
  • Client relations
  • Certified Advanced Social Work Case Manager (C-ASWCM), Awarded 2015
  • Certified Social Work Case Manager (C-SWCM), Awarded 2013

Alicia Jones Case Manager | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | 123 Address St., Los Angeles, CA

Mark Roberts Hiring Manager Suncoast Health (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Roberts,

As you can see from my attached resume, I have over 10 years of experience serving as an advocate for patients suffering from substance abuse and mental health issues. During my time as a case manager at Los Angeles Rehabilitation, I oversaw more than 150 cases related to alcoholism, gambling addiction, and drug abuse. I believe that my ability to foster positive community relationships will allow me to contribute to the fast-paced clinical environment at Suncoast Health.

Your organization’s reputation for achieving positive rehabilitation outcomes is what draws me to apply for the case manager role. I am confident I can help continue to grow this reputation based on the following accomplishments from my career:

  • Oversaw all aspects of case management and coordinated with multidisciplinary teams to provide appropriate rehabilitation treatments for substance abuse patients
  • Served as an advocate for patients, interfaced with state agencies and legal entities, and built relationships with patients to coordinate stays, resolve payment issues, and ensure quality care
  • Identified opportunities to improve case management processes and resolve communication gaps by implementing a standardized weekly case review process

I look forward to speaking with you further about how my case management expertise can aid Suncoast Health in delivering quality patient care. Please contact me via phone or email at your convenience. Thank you for your consideration.

Alicia Jones

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Should I send my cover letter as an email attachment? -

If you’re sending your application directly to the hiring manager, consider including your cover letter in the body of the email. This maximizes the visibility of your cover letter and allows you to provide a strong introduction. You can also opt to provide your cover letter as a separate PDF attachment in addition to the body of the email. Either choice is fine if the information is easily accessible to the hiring manager. 

How do you align your cover letter and resume with a job description? -

Aligning your cover letter and resume with the job description is essential to the job search process. Companies aren’t interested in generic applications that can be sent anywhere; they want to see you’ve customized your documents for their organization. Incorporating key accomplishments that match the posting in both your cover letter and resume will demonstrate that you’re the ideal candidate they’ve been looking for.

When crafting your resume, focus on integrating keywords, qualifications, and experience that align with the job requirements. This will ensure compliance with applicant tracking system (ATS) and show prospective employers you have the qualifications to succeed in the position.

In your cover letter, mention something specific about the organization’s reputation, mission statement, and culture and why this draws you to apply for the role. This will show hiring managers you’re fully engaged and truly interested in the job.

Frank Hackett

Frank Hackett

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)

Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).

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The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Cover Letter Font

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  • Posted On: 2024-08-23
  • Posted By: Shacara

Why the Right Cover Letter Font Matters

1. first impressions count, 2. enhances readability, 3. reflects professionalism, 4. ensures consistency, choosing the right cover letter font, 1. classic and professional fonts, 2. fonts to avoid, 3. font size and spacing, 4. font color, using mycvcreator.com to choose the perfect font, 1. font selection, 2. customization options, 3. templates with pre-selected fonts, 4. consistency across documents, 5. preview and feedback, best practices for font usage in cover letters, 1. stick to professional fonts, 2. maintain readability, 3. keep it simple, 4. proofread and review, 5. seek feedback, get ahead of the competition.

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What’s the Best Resume Font, Size, and Format [For 2024]

Background Image

When you’re working on your resume the font might be the last thing on your mind.

But details matter.

And something that might seem insignificant at first, like your resume font, can have a huge impact on whether you get the job or not.

Why’s that?

Consider the resume readability.

You may have the best resume in the world, but if the font is assaulting the HR manager’s eyes, well , chances are, they’re not going to give you a call back any time soon.

Similarly, if you go with the most boring font that’s almost camouflaging with the background, they just might forget about your resume by the end of the day.

Most HR managers don’t spend a whole lot of time on actually analyzing your resume. The very first they look at is the resume layout and only then do they go through the contents.

If the layout is good (e.g. 1 page, looks good, easy-to-scan, etc.) and the font looks readable - only then will they decide if it’s worth a read or not.

And remember, this is only done in a matter of seconds.

So, imagine someone glances at your resume. What first impression is your font giving off?

Do you want your resume to stand out and go in the right box?

If so, read on to find out: 

  • What's the Best Resume Font & Size

How to Format Your Resume

How to make your resume (the easy way), what’s the best resume font & size.

When it comes to font and font size, we generally recommend going with something that stands out, but not too much.

The font you go with has a direct impact on the readability, and so, it needs to look good on PDF as well as paper.

Before we dive into the best resume fonts though, let’s take a look at one font you shouldn’t ever use :

Comic Sans.

bad font for resume

Yes, you’ll stand out. No, not in the good way.

Jokes (and bashing comic sans) aside, the most common font people tend to use is Times New Roman, 12pt.

Now, there’s nothing necessarily wrong with that, but you should know that it’s going to be the default font for most people.

Do you want your resume to stand out among all the Times New Roman resumes?

If so, consider using:

  • Ubuntu - Ubuntu is a modern, humanist-style, typeface developed in 2010. It looks great everywhere, maximizes readability, and does not belong to any specific industry. You can use it for all job applications and your resume is guaranteed to stand out.
  • Roboto - Looks familiar? You might recognize this font because Google developed it for its Android operating system in 2011. But don’t worry, it’s free for commercial use. It has a tech look to it, but feel free to use it in any industry - tech or otherwise.
  • Overpass - Relatively newer font, developed in 2015, Overpass is a digital typeface font inspired by Highway Gothic. It looks very formal and classy, making it ideal for more conservative industries. But you can’t go wrong with using it in other industries as well because of its sleek design.

Once you’ve picked your font, you move on to:

Resume Font Size

In a resume builder , such as ours, the font sizes are pre-defined in order to create a font hierarchy across the document that will result in increased readability of your resume.

When faced with a situation where you are not relying on a resume builder and have to choose the font size yourself, as a rule of thumb, we recommend going with 10-12pt for normal text and 14-16pt for section titles and headers.

This approach should save you some space and also won’t make the HR manager have to squint to read the text.

It’s important to note that once you decide on a font and font size, they should be consistent throughout the whole resume.

Basic Layout Info

When it comes to the resume layout, here’s what you need to know:

  • Line spacing - Go for 1.0 or 1.15 line spacing between text and double lines after subheadings. Feel free to adjust this accordingly based on the space of your resume
  • Bullet points - You can use bullet points in your resume experience section to make it easier to skim through. Just make sure you don’t overuse them, limit them up to 6 points within each section.
  • Resume length - Stick to one page, unless you have 5+ years of experience (2/3 pages at most, in that case).

So, once you’ve got the basic layout and the feel of your resume down, you can now move onto actually writing the main sections within your resume. Here’s how you do that:

how to write a resume

You probably already have a general idea of what you should include in your resume.

Sounds simple, right? 

Simply list your qualifications and call it a day.

Well, not quite.

The sections you list on your resume have to be relevant to the HR manager and the job you’re applying for. 

No one wants to hear your whole life and backstory.

Instead, here’s what to include and how .

Contact Information

contact information on resume

Let’s start with the basics.

Your name, professional title, email address, contact information . These are all things that go on any resume ever. 

After all, they need a way to contact you, right?

Make sure the spelling is correct, and everything is up to date.

Thinking of including your social media handles?

As long as they’re relevant - go for it.

Your LinkedIn profile is important for most HR managers.

But your Behance link might be relevant only if you work in design. Likewise, you might want to include Github only if you’re in IT.

Resume Summary or Objective?

resume objective summary

Do you have more than 2 years of work experience?

Include a resume summary that sums up your previous jobs and qualifications in 50 words or less. Don’t just repeat what’s on the resume below. Instead, offer insight that might compel the HR manager to learn more about you.

Now, if that’s not the case, feel free to include a resume objective that mentions your motivations and why you’re the perfect candidate for your job. If you don’t have a lot of experience, feel free to lean on what inspires you instead.

Work Experience

work experience for resume

This is the section most HR managers jump to in your resume.

If you want to convince them that you’re the right fit, make sure you list work experience that’s relevant to the position and offers actionable insight.

If possible, quantify the impact you made when working for each role and be very specific about your contributions.

  • Improved revenue by 20% by optimizing Facebook ads.
  • Created Facebook ads.

At the end of the day, the HR manager wants to hear about your accomplishments, not responsibilities.

skills sections on resume

Most job ads typically list the type of skills they’re looking for straight away. This is your chance to stand out and prove to the HR manager that you’ve actually read the job ad.

To perfect your skills section, get a good mix of hard and soft skills .

What’s the difference?

Well, your hard skills include specific knowledge and expertise that comes from training. For example, if you’re applying for a tech job, your hard skills should include specific knowledge needed for the job.

For example:

Your soft skills , meanwhile, are self-developed and come from experience. I.e. skills you’ve learned from life, such as communicating with people, working in a startup, and so on.

  • Communication
  • Self-Driven

When thinking about some of the skills to put on your resume , read the job ad carefully. You want to mention the skills that are relevant for the job - no one cares about your Expert knowledge of Underwater Basket Weaving.

This is fairly straightforward, yet, many people make the mistake of filling this section with unnecessary information.

When writing your education section, only include the important things, such as:

  • University name
  • Years attended
  • (Optional) GPA - Is it more than 3.5? Then you might want to include it. 
  • (Optional) Honors - Were you top of the class? Go for it.
  • (Optional) Minor program - Relevant to the job? Feel free to include.

Keep it simple, no need to waste space with the background of your university or what motivated you to choose your major.

Optional Sections

optional section for resume

Want to stand out from the crowd AND leave a good impression? Some of these optional sections might help…

  • Hobbies and interests
  • Volunteering Experience
  • Certifications and Awards
  • Publications

There’s a lot more to making a good resume than what we’ve covered so far. Want to learn more? We have a super-comprehensive guide for that. Give it a read, and you’ll be an expert in no time!

resume builder

Now that you know what goes in a resume, you might be wondering - “what’s the best way to make one?”

Yes, you can do the whole thing manually and hand-craft your own resume with Microsoft Word

But think about it - do you really want to go through all the hassle?

If you’re going to be hand-crafting your resume from scratch, you need to get everything right. 

You need to format it right, get the layout right, make sure it’s ATS-friendly (CV screening software HR uses), and really dive into the details.

This is extremely time-consuming.

Instead of manually knitting up a resume, you could be making better use of your time.

Work smarter, not harder, right?

If you want to make your life easier, try Novorésumé’s resume builder . It’s free (with premium options) and really simplifies the process of creating a resume.

Our templates were developed with recruiters and employers in mind, so you can rest assured that you’re always sending in your best work.

Whether you’re a college student or a senior executive - Novoresume templates have your back when it comes to best resume formatting practices.

Key Takeaways

Ready to get back into the job search with the best resume font practices that will have the HR manager grabbing your resume from a full-stack?

Make sure your resume font reflects that and that it’ll have your resume radiating with the font choice the next time you send it in.

Here’s a quick recap of what we’ve learned so far:

  • Best resume fonts are: Ubuntu , Robot , Overpass . The worst one? Comic Sans
  • Best resume font sizes are: 11-12pt for normal text, 14-16pt for section titles and headers.
  • The most-used resume formatting order is: Contact information , work experience , skills , and education .

With that said, if you don’t want to worry about the specific resume formatting and getting the details right - you can always use a resume builder to make your life much easier.

There is no reason as to why you should be pouring your sweat, blood, and tears into the painstaking hours of perfecting your resume, down to the margins and fonts manually, when you can just use a resume builder (which is free) to do it for you.

If you want to learn other ways to save time and stay up to date with the latest career advice, be sure to check out our career blog .

Suggested reading:

  • How to Pick the Best Resume Format [+Examples]
  • What to Put On a Resume (To Get The Job You’ll Love)
  • 100+ Achievements to Write in Your Resume [Examples for 2024]

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  2. Resume vs. Cover Letter

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  3. Cover Letter Template 2018 , #cover #CoverLetterTemplate #letter #

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  4. How To Write A Cover Letter: Useful Tips, Phrases and Examples • 7ESL

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  6. How to Format a Cover Letter (With Tips and Examples)

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COMMENTS

  1. How To Choose Cover Letter Font and Font Size

    Pick the optimal cover letter font size. When selecting a font size, you have three options: size 10, 11 or 12. It is essential that your cover letter fits on one page, so opt for a size 10 or 11 font if it's spilling onto a second page. If you have a lot of room to spare, choose a size 12 font. As tempting as it may be, never go below a size ...

  2. How To Match Your Cover Letter With Your Resume [With Examples]

    In your cover letter, select a few of these key experiences and describe them in more depth. If your resume says, "Managed a team of 10 sales associates," your cover letter might tell a story about a challenging time when your leadership skills really made a difference. 5. Mirroring Language and Tone:

  3. The Best Resume Font and Size (No More Agonizing!)

    Here are some general guidelines from our experts to get you started: Your Name: 20-24 point. Headings and Subheadings: 11-14 point. Body Text and Your Contact Info: 10-12 point. Ultimately, the most important component of your resume is the content.

  4. Best Font for a Resume: How To Choose Type and Size

    1. Use a professional and easy-to-read font. Complex fonts can make your resume difficult to read, which could encourage employers to overlook it. Instead, choose a clean, simple resume font that makes your words clear to the employer. There are two general styles of fonts: Serif and Sans Serif.

  5. Best Cover Letter Font You Should Use (Size & Typeface)

    The best font for a cover letter should be simple, clear, and match the font you use in your resume. The most popular choices include Times New Roman, Arial, Calibri, and Verdana. The font size should be set to 12pt and it's best to limit yourself to just one typeface. But that's not the full answer on what font is suitable for a cover letter.

  6. Cover Letter Format Should Match Your Resume

    The contact information shared in the headers of both your resume and cover letter must match. While it is acceptable for the header of your resume or cover letter to share more information than the other, the specific personal details shared between the two should be the same. Double-check that the name, phone number, email, and address you ...

  7. How To Choose the Best Cover Letter Font

    Helvetica: This font is a sans serif font with a concise design. When utilized for a cover letter, it does not distract a reader from the content. If you're applying to a contemporary workplace, Helvetica is a suitable choice. Times New Roman: A classic serif font, Times New Roman is widely used in job applications.

  8. Choosing a Resume + Cover Letter Font? 10 Tips & Examples

    8. Auro. It's OK to pick a fun font option for your resume and cover letter. The key is to balance light-feeling elements with a strong overall presence and readability. Auro has a light feel with flowing shapes while maintaining readability. The typeface is fun but not too much fun for a resume or cover letter.

  9. How to Choose a Cover Letter Font in 5 Steps (With Tips)

    4. Type your cover letter. After you choose a font style and size, start typing out your cover letter. You can also change the font size and style after completing your cover letter to enhance its effectiveness. Simply highlight all the text on the page and try out different font options in your program. Experimenting with different font styles ...

  10. Choosing The Best Font For Cover Letters and Resumes

    Picking an appropriate font size for a cover letter. The size of your font is equally as important as choosing the correct font for your cover letter. If the text of your letter is too small or visibly challenging, your application might be passed up for another candidate. There are three general options when picking a font size, 10, 11, or 12.

  11. How To Format a Cover Letter (With Outline and Examples)

    Use 10- and 12-point sizes for easy reading. In general, you should use the same font and font size that you used in your resume. Read more: How To Choose Cover Letter Font and Font Size Spacing within your cover letter Good spacing is essential for your cover letter.

  12. Best Font for Resume: Tips on Size, Types, and Styles

    Key Points. In experts' opinion, Calibri is the best font for a resume and a cover letter, too. Comic sans and other script or funky typefaces make the worst fonts. Body text should be 11-12pts, while subsection headings can be 13-16pts. Use bold and italics sparingly to accentuate particular passages.

  13. Cover Letter Font: 10+ Best Fonts For Your Cover Letter

    8. Trebuchet MS. Boasting thick lines and simple curves, Trebuchet MS is a great choice if you need to fill space or make your cover letter extra easy to read. Designed for Microsoft Word, this font can now be found on most word processing software, including Google Docs.

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

    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.

  15. 11 Modern & Professional Cover Letter Fonts You Should Use

    A good cover letter font makes the document professional, visually pleasing, and easy to read. Some of the best fonts for a cover letter include Arial, Calibri, Garamond, Helvetica, and Cambria. Fonts to avoid include Comic Sans, Courier, Papyrus, and any other script with an overly ornate typeface. Serif fonts are typically better for ...

  16. The Best Fonts for Resumes in 2024: Examples & Font Sizing

    The standard font sizes for resumes are as follows: Header (your name): 28-35pt; Section headers: 14-16pt; Body content: 10-12pt; Readability is the most important part of choosing your resume font size. So while 10-12 points works for most resume fonts, the truth is that each font varies. To find a perfect balance: pick a font style

  17. Should Your Cover Letter and Resume Templates Match?

    A well-written cover letter should complement your resume in style and content. Be sure all of these elements match when you create your cover letter and resume together: Color. Font and font size. Layout, including margins and paragraph spacing. Contact information. An easy way to make sure your cover letter and resume match is to use the same ...

  18. The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Cover Letter Font

    Choosing a classic and widely accepted font can enhance your cover letter's credibility and demonstrate your understanding of formal business communication standards. 4. Ensures Consistency. Consistency in font choice between your cover letter, resume, and other application materials creates a cohesive and professional appearance.

  19. What's the Best Resume Font, Size, and Format [For 2024]

    It has a tech look to it, but feel free to use it in any industry - tech or otherwise. Overpass - Relatively newer font, developed in 2015, Overpass is a digital typeface font inspired by Highway Gothic. It looks very formal and classy, making it ideal for more conservative industries.

  20. Resume vs. Cover Letter: What's the Difference?

    There are three main differences between resumes and cover letters: 1. Format. Your cover letter is a professional communication structured in full paragraphs, while your resume should have sections with bullet points that convey specific details like dates of employment and job duties. 2. Content.

  21. Cover Letter vs. Resume: How Are They Different?

    The difference between a cover letter and a resume. There are four key differences between a cover letter and a resume: 1. Importance. Resumes are a requirement when you apply for work. On the other hand, cover letters are often necessary, but optional when a company specifically says to not include one.

  22. How to choose the best font size for cover letters

    Here are some steps you can use to decide on the best font size for your cover letter: 1. Consider your audience. One way to choose an effective font size is to think about the preferences of your potential readers. For example, if you're interested in working for a company with more traditional values in a highly technical industry, you might ...