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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 consider a cover letter to be equally important as a resume. It is your first writing sample. A cover letter is the appropriate medium to highlight strengths and emphasize enthusiasm for a position.

A basic cover letter is usually 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 (e.g. "second year student at Capital University Law School"). If you have previously made contact with someone at the firm, be sure to acknowledge this individual. In addition, your opening paragraph should explain briefly the reason you are writing to this individual, indicate your knowledge about the organization, and transition into your second paragraph, which will highlight your 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 demonstrate that you have the credentials the organization is seeking, using the language from the job posting or website.

Your cover letter's closing paragraph is your call to action. Thank the employer for his or her time and consideration of your credentials. This is the place to say what you are going to do to follow-up with the employer regarding your materials.

Helpful Tips

• You should address your cover letter to the appropriate person. If you are uncertain whom to address in the cover letter, research the employer to identify the 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 - use the CBA Directory, Martindale-Hubbell, or the 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.
• PROOF READ CAREFULLY! Errors are likely to disqualify you. Use Spell Check but do not depend on it.  Always have someone review your cover letter before you send.
• Have your cover letter reviewed by the Career Services Office.

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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).