Cover Letters

• Be brief – 2 to 3 paragraphs.
• In the first paragraph, state what job you want. If you are responding to an ad, cite the ad with source, date and job title. Avoid “Job 35662”.
• Briefly state why YOU are suited.
• Get yourself “off the paper.”  Give someone a reason to meet with you.
• Indicate why you are interested in the organization receiving your resume. Stating interest in a practice area not offered by the organization is a big mistake.
• A letter that reveals lack of knowledge of a law office communicates lack of interest in that organization.
• In final paragraph, let employer know the best ways to contact you.

Objective

• Stating objective not necessary – do so in cover letter.

Education

• Degree, date, school, major/minor.
• GPA only if over 3.5; grade is one of the easiest first screens.
• Achievements and awards.
• If no degree – indicate class standing and school.
• In school – include expected date of graduation.
• Include certificates and licenses.

Experience

• Full- or part time positions.
• Internships.
• Title, firm/corporation, dates, job description.
• Do not include supervisor’s name or reasons you left a job.
• For entry-level opportunities, list all positions held.
• For gaps in work history, include explanation: attended school, raising family.

Additional Skills: Computer and Language

• Identify the software programs you are comfortable using.
• Indicate if you speak, write, read foreign language(s) frequently.

Recognition & Achievements

• Promotions, awards, special commendations.
• Specify number of attorneys supported.
• Specify number and size of trials and exhibits.
• Specify parties at closing and dollars involved.

Volunteering & Professional Affiliations

• Avoid political and religious affiliations.
• Include articles published; related public speaking events.

Format & Layout

• Chronological vs. functional.
• Print only one side and leave white space.
• Use quality white or off-white paper.
• Use bullets or phrases -- no long paragraphs.
• Do not use first person.
• Do not exceed two pages.
• Do not use abbreviations.
• Check to make sure resume is printable, scannable, web-ready.

Overall Tips

• Your resume should reflect the real you. Interests and non-legal experience can give a candidate a dimension that is not obvious simply by looking at grades.
• Most importantly: convey drive, dedication, and success.
• Be solutions-oriented. Find out what pain an employer is experiencing and show how you can solve it.

Tips for Effective Email

• Your email account name should convey a professional image.
• If in school, consider using your school email account.
• If you refer to an attached cover letter and resume, remember to attach it. Give each attachment a name that identifies the author and type of document.
• Make sure emails are professional in format, style, and content – avoid casual language.
• Print out a copy of your email before sending and proof for errors.
• Be cautious using email for thank you letters.
• Make sure your recipients accept e-mail applications.
• Use a common font.
• If asked for a scannable resume, be sure to use scannable fonts and searchable key words.  
• Avoid mass mailings and messages beginning with “To Whom it May Concern”.

Omit from Resume

• Any personal information: age, race, marital status, health.
• Photographs.
• Salary history.
• References.

  See Also INTERVIEW TIPS