This quarter, we are discussing how to write a compelling cover letter. If you need to catch up, all tips are published on the CPLD blog. Today, we’re focusing on the top two inches (or less) of your cover letter.
What’s in a Header?
Never underestimate the importance of using the same header
on your cover letter that you already use on your resume. Your header is your brand. While it is composed of your name, address,
phone number, email address and maybe a line, it is a visual “stamp” on your
application materials that will help the reader to link your cover letter to
your resume, and it will help them remember what they read when you are
interviewing with them.
By Anna Buzard
It can also be the difference between getting your application read and getting it recycled. One recruiting coordinator told our office that one of the biggest challenges is keeping all of the parts of an application together as it moves from office to office, hiring partner to hiring associate, for review. Having a consistent header makes it easier for your materials to remain together because it is easy to identify them as partners.
It can also be the difference between getting your application read and getting it recycled. One recruiting coordinator told our office that one of the biggest challenges is keeping all of the parts of an application together as it moves from office to office, hiring partner to hiring associate, for review. Having a consistent header makes it easier for your materials to remain together because it is easy to identify them as partners.
Address Block &
Date
Be sure to include the recipient’s name and address below
the date (usually with a space between).
The legal profession is a formal
profession and it is slow to change.
When in doubt, be as formal as possible.
A recipient’s address block is a formal piece of a cover letter, and
demonstrates your attention to detail.
This only works, however, if you double check that you have spelled the
recipient’s name correctly and have the correct address.
Greeting
Always – always –
use a name. If there is no name on the
job posting, call the organization or firm and ask them the name that you
should use. Never – ever – use “to whom it may concern” or “Dear hiring partner.” Always – always – double check how to spell
their name. Nothing says “I don’t really
care about working for you” than failing to do even basic research about the
person who will be vetting your application.
At large organizations and firms, recruiters are your gatekeepers: be respectful
and polite, and doors will open; be rude, terse or uncaring, and doors will
remain shut.
Why are these things
important?
Lawyers primarily work for non-lawyers, which means you have
to be skilled at communicating effectively with non-lawyers. Your
cover letter is your first opportunity to demonstrate not only that you can
communicate effectively, but that you can go the extra mile. Excellence in your top two inches is a great
start for an effective cover letter.
Next Week: The Hook
