Covering letters aren’t as commonly needed when applying for newly qualified positions because many of these are handled by recruitment agencies. That said, some firms will advertise their vacancies direct and ask for CV and covering letter so it is worth knowing how to construct an effective one.
The key thing to remember is that a good covering letter cannot make up for a bad CV but a bad CV can affect the chances of a good CV – in the worst case scenario it can mean an application goes onto the ‘No’ pile without the recruiter even reading the CV.
Here are some tips for producing effective covering letters:
- Check with the firm who you should address the letter to.
- Include your contact details including telephone number and email address aligned to the top right of the letter. The firm’s contact details should appear below the last line of your own details but aligned to the left of the letter. The date can go below the firm’s contact details.
- Presentation – covering letters should never be more than one page of A4 – good quality/weight white or cream paper and with a professional looking font such as Times New Roman or Arial.
- Spelling & Grammar – avoid any spelling or grammar mistakes by checking with a fine tooth comb and also getting someone else to proofread it for you.
- Help the recruiter by writing in a simple and direct manner and getting your points across in a succinctly.
- Start by identifying yourself and why you are writing. Mention the advert if you are applying in response to one.
- Tell them why you have chosen to apply to that firm. Here you need to show you have researched the firm – refer to the firm’s size, location and/or areas of law it practises.
- Tell them why you would be a good fit for the job. Look to highlight a particular piece of your experience, or a special quality or achievement of yours that will sell to them the idea that you could be the right person for the job – this will be something that is also included in your CV but which you feel its worth highlighting up front.
- Always sign off professionally and thank them for considering your application. You can also state your availability for interview.
- Remember to sign it! This may sound like obvious advice but you’ll be surprised how many people forget when they are so pleased they have finished their application.
Professional One to One Careers Advice for Newly Qualifieds
Get help with your career decisions, job search, applications and interviews from our resident legal career coach, Matt Oliver LLB (Solicitor).
