Applications and Interviews
How to write a covering letter
Paper applications are still used by many firms
Although most applications for city firms are now all online, many smaller law firms still opt for the traditional paper application. With the recession forcing even the largest of legal employers to scale back, the covering letter might well be on a come back as graduates seek opportunities elsewhere. Before we continue, here is also a section on AllAboutCareers that talks about How to write a covering letter.
Whether as a speculative application or one targeted at a specific job advertisement, the covering letter is a key ingredient in this process. This piece take a look at how to write a covering letter for law firms outside the city firms and online applications.
The covering letter is the paper equivalent of that initial few seconds when we meet someone. Much is judged upon little. The ultimate aim of the covering letter is to politely scream ‘choose me’ in a way that convinces an employer that you are worthy of their offering. No pressure then.
So, the employers perspective. I want someone that is perfect for the job as soon as possible with the minimum amount of fuss or hassle. That means don’t waste my time, don’t waffle and be straight to the point. If you fail to fit within any of the above criteria then you’ll be given short (or no) shrift. That means shift F7 is definitely out of the question for this one.
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Key Point Heading Goes Here
'The ultimate aim of the covering letter is to politely scream ‘choose me’ in a way that convinces an employer that you are worthy of their offering.'
When creating you CV masterpiece however it is important that you follow a clear structure. Outlined below is an example that most recruitment consultancies and employers recommend ‘potentials’ follow.
Intro
Who are you and why are you writing to me?
You must let them know this within the first few lines of your covering letter, otherwise it is unlikely they will go any further.
‘I am Joe Blogs, a recent law graduate writing in response to your advertisement on XYZ site for the position of legal assistant’
Why do you want the job?
What attracts you to the company and the position you are applying for?
Mentioning money is probably not the best thing to do here. Employers will be far more receptive to your application if you have taken the time to understand their business and how the role you are applying for will fit into it.
Why should you be offered the job?
The elders of a settlement in rural India may have honoured you for your efforts in preparing their village for the monsoon season, but can use Outlook and Excel? Don’t simply see this section as an opportunity to put every achievement since primary school on the page. It must be relevant and it must encourage them to read on.
Select 3 or 4 qualities that you possess that match the needs of the job. Be wary of exaggerating anything because you’ll soon be found out if you didn’t invent the chip and pin devise.
Conclusion
Briefly detail any practical issues that might need to be addressed. If they specify you must have a clean driving license, this is your opportunity to let them know.
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So summarising how to write a covering letter for law firms… be concise, tailor it to the job specification and talk up relevant qualities you possess for the position. Most importantly though, good luck!
