I give talks at local universities here in the DC area on writing-related topics, and a few weeks ago I was at American University's Washington College of Law talking about how to write an effective cover letter that will get graduates noticed in the job search. Since I know that some law students read this blog, I've included some tips below. Of course, these pointers really apply to any job in any discipline.
Tip #1: It's not what the firm can do for you. It's what you can do for the firm. Law firms are not charities. Only charities are charities, and even they probably don't care how working in their office will make you a better writer, leader, organizer, researcher, whatever. Of course, they care to the extent that if you are a better writer, you'll do good work, but that's kind of assumed. Avoid sentences like, "If given the chance to work at your firm, I will be able to develop my skills as a..." Instead, discuss how your skills will make them more productive. And be specific.
Tip #2: Write your cover letter so that no one else in the world--and I mean no one--could have had the same experience. Only your name can go at the bottom. What I tell students is that almost anyone can write about their variety of leadership positions, ability to delegate, task management skills, blah blah blah. Don't just tell your readers that--show them how you have done these things. As my fifth grade teacher said, "Specific is Terrific." Your cover letter should be like your fingerprint: no one else in the world can say the same thing.
Tip #3: Don't repeat your resume. That's why you have a resume. Instead, elaborate on the most important points.
Tip #4: Proofread until you can proofread no longer. You would think that a perfectly proofed document merely puts you on a level playing field, but that's not true. Most cover letters contain mistakes. If yours is flawless, it will stand out. Remember, in a competitive job market, prospective employers look for reasons to disqualify you. A smaller pile makes their job easier. Don't make it easy for them.
Tip #5: Similar to tip #2, write to be read. Write something that is engaging. I always tell soon-to-be graduates (and the same thing goes for people applying to graduate school) to imagine the worst-case scenario: your reader is looking at your cover letter at 4:30pm on a Friday, before a three-day weekend at the beach. She is antsy and can't wait to hit the road to beat the traffic. Make her stay in her seat.
Tip #6: Avoid these words: self starter, highly motivated, multitasker, team player, strong work ethic, works well with everyone, strong communication skills. And any boilerplate phrase. These add nothing and are minimum requirements for any job you are seeking. No employer has ever seen the phrase highly motivated and thought, "Well, I wasn't going to hire him, but he DID say he was highly motivated. Where's that phone!"
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