đź“„ Substance of Your Cover Letter
A cover letter is often the most important part of your job application. While your resume lists your qualifications, your cover letter makes the case that you are the perfect candidate. It’s the place to:
- Explain how your background fits the employer’s needs
- Share ambitions and context not suitable for a resume
- Show your genuine interest in the specific position
🎯 Why Targeted Cover Letters Matter
Mass-mailed applications are obvious to hiring managers. If you haven’t taken time to tailor your letter, employers may assume you’re not truly interested. A well-crafted cover letter should demonstrate:
- That you understand the company and role
- How your skills and experience align perfectly
✍️ Formatting Guidelines
Your cover letter should follow a formal business letter format. Options:
- Use your resume’s header for a consistent look
- Or use a standard letterhead format
Include (in order):
- Your name, address, email, and phone number (remove hyperlinks from email)
- The date
- The employer’s name, title, and address
👤 Who to Address It To
Always try to address the letter to a specific person:
- Research online or contact your school’s career office (CPD)
- Include the person’s full title
If no contact is available, use:
- “Hiring Coordinator” in the address block
- “Dear Sir or Madam” or “To Whom it May Concern” in the salutation
đź“Ś The Three Main Purposes of a Cover Letter
1. Introduce Yourself
This is your opening paragraph — 1 to 3 sentences.
- State who you are and why you’re writing
- Mention any personal connection or referral
- If applicable, explain why you’re applying from outside the region
Examples:
“I am a second-year law student at Seattle University School of Law. I am seeking a summer internship with Fish & Cutbait due to my strong interest in admiralty and maritime law.”
“As an adoptive parent, a former kindergarten teacher and a current law student completing a concentration in Family Law… I am applying for the fellowship offered by BRATS…”
2. Highlight What You Offer the Employer
This section is the core of your letter. Write 2–3 paragraphs explaining how your education, experience, and skills meet the employer’s needs.
Avoid repeating your resume. Instead:
- Expand with context, examples, and details
- Show how your background makes you the best candidate
- Include reasons you’re interested in this role, company, and field
âś… Sample: Skills and Experience
“I worked five years as a paralegal in copyright law. When I released my country single, Your Rule Against Perpetuities, I navigated copyright myself, using the same skills I applied for clients.”
“My experience in federal law enforcement, particularly with DOJ and DHS, has prepared me for complex litigation work in your firm.”
âś… Sample: Employer-Focused Interest
“I’m interested in municipal transportation law and studied eminent domain for my law review note. Your 1996 case inspired much of my research.”
“I have followed your firm’s representation of Pete Rose and hope to offer creative legal defense for misunderstood athletes.”
âś… Sample: Personal Motivation
“As the child of Luxembourg immigrants, I understand the emotional and legal complexities of citizenship. This background fuels my interest in immigration law.”
“Although I studied in Seattle, my goal is to return to Burlington, Vermont, to practice. I look forward to being part of the local community again.”
3. Close Confidently
End with a thank you and a statement about next steps.
Examples:
“Thank you for your time and consideration. I would welcome the opportunity to speak with you when you visit campus.”
“I will be in Chicago over the holidays and hope we can meet. I’ll follow up next week to arrange a time.”
🎨 When to Be Creative
Sometimes, a non-traditional letter may be appropriate — for example:
- You have an unusual background
- You’re applying for a unique role
- A more creative tone fits the company culture
If in doubt, consult your career office (CPD) for guidance on creative approaches.
âś… Final Checklist: Your Letter Must Be Flawless
Remember, unlike job performance, job application materials are not time-constrained. Employers expect perfection.
Before you send:
- Proofread carefully
- Have someone else review it — CPD, family, or friends
- Avoid typos, grammar mistakes, or unclear phrasing
Even a small error can be a deal-breaker in a competitive market.