job search related correspondence - Syracuse University College of ...

More documents

Recommendations

Info

I. Writing an Effective Cover LetterThe objective of a cover letter is to persuade the reader i.e., the employer, to interview you.While some employers may disregard cover letters, others view them as a good indication ofyour writing skills and personality. It should tell the reader why you are writing, why you areinterested in the position you are applying for and why you would be a good candidate for theposition. This is an opportunity for you to “sell” yourself to a prospective employer. Do notsimply reiterate your resume, rather, expand on the facts that make you a good choice for theposition and that will set you apart from other candidates.An effective cover letter is personalized! Employers look to see if you are applying to them for aspecific reason, not just because you are doing a “mass mailing.” If your cover letter can be sentto any employer, from a district attorney’s office to a private firm with no changes, then it isprobably too vague to be effective. Generally speaking, a cover letter should be short. In manycases, three paragraphs will be sufficient. Sometimes, though, two middle paragraphs workbetter. Decide what works best on a case-by-case basis, by looking at the flow and content of theletter.A few sample cover letters appear in the pages that follow. Use them only as a guide; do notcopy them word for word. The Office of Career Services also has many books available withhundreds of cover letters and other types of job search letters. You may view them in our officeduring office hours, or borrow select books overnight. If you are new to cover letter writing, orif you are experiencing writer’s block, reviewing other people’s model letters can really help.Similar books are also available at the public library and elsewhere. See the Bibliography ofResources & Other Good Resources Chapter.39
II.Cover Letter FormatYour Street AddressYour City, State Zip CodeDateContact name/hiring partnerName of organization/firmStreet addressCity, State Zip CodeDear Mr./Ms. (Last Name):If you have been referred to this employer by someone, your letter should begin with thatperson’s name. State the reason for the letter, the position you are applying for, and the sourcefrom which you learned of the opening. State your reason for applying and compliment theemployer in doing so. Include the law school you attend and your expected date of graduation.If you are applying to a city where you have no easily recognizable ties, make sure you state whyyou are looking in city “X.”Sell yourself. Indicate why you are interested in the particular employer and the type ofwork the firm does. Point out anything in your work or volunteer experience that makes youespecially qualified for the position. This is your chance to amplify any particularly good gradein the field of law that the firm practices. Once you have some legal experience, this should bethe focus of your middle paragraph(s), with a particular emphasis on your legal research andwriting skills. If possible use terms or words used in the advertisement for the position or jobdescription so that you sound like the person they are looking for.Anticipate a positive response. Indicate your flexibility for interview time and place. Letthe reader know that you will be in contact with his/her office shortly to arrange for an interview.Thank the employer in advance for consideration of your application.Very truly yours,Enclosure (for one enclosed document)orEnclosures (for 2 or more enclosed documents)Your full name40
Page 1: JOB SEARCH RELATED CORRESPONDENCEo
Page 5 and 6: ecruitment coordinator, if the firm

job search related correspondence - Syracuse University College of ...

Create successful ePaper yourself

Delete template?

Save as template?