Drafting Effective Cover Letters

The purpose of a cover letter is to highlight various aspects of your resume as they apply to the particular position or job. Many employers view your cover letter as being as equally important as the resume. It is your first writing sample; so present it accordingly. A cover letter is the perfect medium to showcase strengths and emphasize enthusiasm for a position.

A basic cover letter is composed of three paragraphs: an opening, middle and closing paragraph.

The opening paragraph of a cover letter should spark the interest of the reader. It will make them want to read and review your resume because it displays your enthusiasm for their organization. The opening paragraph should introduce you and attorney status (e.g. "member of the Ohio Bar"). If you have previously made contact with someone else at the firm, be sure to acknowledge this individual. In addition, your opening paragraph should briefly explain the reason you are writing to this individual, indicate your knowledge about the organization, and open the door for your second paragraph where you will highlight your outstanding qualifications.

The middle paragraph should sell your strengths. In emphasizing your strengths, be sure to discuss your educational credentials, your experience, and your legal research and writing experience and abilities. The middle paragraph should also show how you have the credentials the organization is seeking; do this by using the language from the job posting.

Your cover letter's closing paragraph is your call to action. Thank the employer for their time and consideration of your credentials. This is the place to tell them what you are going to do next; put the burden on you to follow-up with the employer regarding your materials.

You should address your cover letter to the appropriate person. If you are uncertain who to address the cover letter to, then research the employer looking for an appropriate individual; don't address your cover letter to "Sir/Madame" or "To Whom It May Concern."

Remember to confirm the correct spelling of the person's name - try using

• Martindale-Hubbell

• Internet

Let the employer know that you have done your research and have found that you are a good fit; highlight something you found important about the firm in your letter.  Additionally, your cover letter should always be typed and sent on high-quality resume paper. Don't forget to check spelling, grammar and punctuation - these errors are likely to disqualify you! Always have someone review your cover letter before you send.

Resources

• Wendy S. Enelow and Louise M. Kursmark, Cover Letter Magic (2d ed. 2004).

• Martin Yate, Cover Letters that Knock'em Dead (2001).

• Burton Jay Nadler, The Everything Cover Letter Book (2d ed. 2005).

• William S. Frank, 200 Letters for Job Hunters (1974).