Cover letter format — length, address, and sign-off
How long should a cover letter be, how to address it, and how to end without sounding stiff.
Cover letter format for 2026: one page max, three short paragraphs, business letter spacing if uploading PDF, plain email body if submitting in a portal. How long should a cover letter be? Usually 250–400 words — recruiters skim on mobile.
What is the purpose of a cover letter? Bridge the resume and the role: why this company, why now, one proof story not visible in bullet form.
Address and close
How to address a cover letter: hiring manager name if known; otherwise "Dear [Team] Hiring Team" — never "To whom it may concern" if you can find a function name.
How to end a cover letter: one sentence on next step ("I welcome a conversation about X") and a simple close — "Sincerely" or "Best regards" plus full name.
AI cover letter generator caveat
Cover letter generators save time on structure — always verify facts against your tailored CV. DocuResume drafts from your profile and the JD so names, titles, and metrics stay consistent.