Cover Letters
Your cover letter is as important as your resume because it is read first! Its purpose is to interest the reader in you as a prospective employee, and therefore it should be a very positive presentation. It should be brief, precise, and written in a business letter style.
There is no one perfect cover letter. The advice and examples of cover letters included in this handbook should only be used as guides . It is extremely important that you individualize the letter to highlight your unique qualifications; as they relate to the specific requirements sought by the employer.
Keep the following points in mind as your write and rewrite your cover letters:
Write to a specific person:
- Use the person's name and title.
- Make sure the spelling is correct.
- Cover letters should never include the salutations "To Whom It May Concern," "Dear Hiring Partner," or "Dear Sir or Madam."
Include the following information:
- Position you are applying for and how you learned of the opening.
- Why you are applying for the position, level of interest.
- Explanation of your qualifications and how you can contribute to the organization.
- Make reference to your resume; but don't repeat the same information.
- State what action you want from them: an interview.
- Indicate what follow-up action you will take.
General rules:
- Every resume that is sent should be accompanied by a cover letter.
- Limit your cover letter to one page.
- Use good quality bond white or off white paper for both the resume and cover letter.
- Use letter quality or laser printer for a clear sharp copy.
- Check and recheck for accurate spelling and grammar. Do not rely on spell-check.
Some common attributes of bad cover letters:
- Poor overall appearance
- Poor grammar, punctuation and spelling
- Rambling, lack of focus
- Self-focused instead of employer-focused
- Bland, boring text
- Embellished qualifications, bragging
- Aggressive, pushy tone
Outline of a Cover Letter
Your Address
City, State, Zip Code
Date
Title and Name of Contact Person
Employer Name
Address
City, State, Zip Code
Dear Mr./Ms. last name of contact person:
First Paragraph : Tell why you are writing; name the position for which you are applying, and tell how you heard of this opening. State why you are interested in working for this employer. If you have lived in the area or know it well, mention this. Specify your interests in the type of work the firm does. Describe what is particularly appealing to you about the employer.
Second Paragraph : If you have had experience, courses, publications or clinic experience, be sure to point out what particular achievements you have accomplished in the employer's field or type of work. Indicate why you are qualified for the job. Emphasize pertinent items on your resume; add information that is not specifically mentioned on your resume. Include information that is pertinent to the job for which you are applying.
Third Paragraph: Have an appropriate closing to pave the way for an interview. Indicate your willingness to interview personally by stating when you will be in the area or by offering to make yourself available at the employer's convenience. You may wish to indicate that you will call the employer's office within a specific week to try and schedule an interview. Thank the employer for his/her consideration.
Sincerely,
(leave 4 blank lines for signature)
Your Name (typed)
Enclosure
Sample Cover Letter
123 Main Street
Indianapolis, IN 46202
December 1, 1998
Ms. Marilyn C. Employer
Hammer, Wrench & Saw
150 Market Street
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Dear Ms. Employer:
Please consider the enclosed copy of my resume an application for the position of law clerk with your firm. I learned from the Career Services Office that you plan to hire a first-year law student next summer. I was pleased to discover that your firm practices in the area of construction law because that area is of particular interest to me.
As the assistant office manager for Longfellow Construction Company, I was involved with some construction law issues. I find this practice area fascinating and would like to learn more about it, as well as the other practice areas of your firm. I enjoy researching and writing, as evidenced by my involvement with the school newspaper. I feel this trait would be an asset to your firm.
I am extremely interested in the summer law clerk position with your firm and would appreciate the opportunity to further discuss this matter during an interview. I can interview at your convenience. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Fredrick Firstyear
Summer Clerkship Cover Letter
123 Main Street
Williamsburg, VA 23186
December 1, 1998
Mr. John A. Employer
Red, Orange & Yellow
456 Market Street
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Dear Mr. Employer:
Please consider the enclosed copy of my resume an application for the position of law clerk with your firm. I learned from Professional Development that you plan to hire a first-year law student next summer. I was pleased to discover that your firm practices in the area of municipal law because that area is of particular interest to me.
As an intern for the City of Indianapolis during college, I helped create and evaluate the city-wide facility needs assessment survey. Participating in this survey gave me a greater understanding of the Indianapolis community even though I have lived in the city all my life.
I am very interested in this position and would appreciate the opportunity to further discuss this matter during an interview. I will be in Indianapolis over the mid-winter break, December 15 through January 9, and can interview at your convenience. I look forward to hearing from you in the near future.
Sincerely,
Philip B. Firstyear
Sample Thank You Letter
123 Main Street
Indianapolis, IN 46202
December 14, 1998
Ms. Marilyn C. Employer
Hammer, Wrench & Saw
150 Market Street
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Dear Ms. Employer:
Thank you for meeting with me regarding employment opportunities with your firm. I was especially excited to learn that the firm has such an extensive practice in construction law. This knowledge has certainly enhanced my interest in Hammer, Wrench & Saw.
I would be pleased to provide any further information to help your firm reach a positive decision regarding my employment. Thank you again for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Philip Firstyear
