Another way to separate from the pack of cover letters and resumes is to demonstrate serious commitment to a particular practice area. You are asking the firm/decision maker to take a risk on you (especially, if you did not come through the usual channels) so it is helpful if you can convey seriousness of purpose. [...]
An effective cover letter should state how you can add value. In particular, the mission is to: Keep the person reading. You want to grab the reader’s attention. Help them to at least make it past the first sentence. Articulate succinctly how you can contribute immediately. Why are you unique in a way that can [...]
When preparing any correspondence or your resume, be as close to perfect as you can. Here are some suggestions: Pay attention to every little detail. Another way to separate yourself from the crowd. Minutiae is important! Correct comma placement, correct spacing, no typos. Read your letter many times and then have someone else read the [...]
Some thoughts about who should see your perfect cover letter (to the law firm): Write the obvious person with the title — Hiring or Recruiting Coordinator Write the lawyer in the targeted practice area. Here the idea is to find touch points such as the same undergraduate college or law school, same home town, same [...]
Below are some thoughts for writing effective cover letters to law firms. I will expand on each of these take away points (TAPs) in postings to follow. Write several people Be perfect — tiny details matter State how you can add value Show committment to practice area Set up follow-up contact
Please click below to listen to a podcast on the subject of writing effective cover letters to law firms. Comments are encouraged.
