Top 5 tips for writing a winning covering letter

Your covering letter should immediately grab the attention of a prospective employer. Making a positive first impression and highlighting why you are their ideal legal candidate for the job is key to securing that all important interview.

Here are our top 5 tips on how and when to use covering letters to your advantage:

1. Balance form and function

Make sure that it is easily readable, it's clear about who you are, what you are applying for and your capabilities to do the job. If you are looking for legal secretary jobs, you can read our five steps to the perfect legal secretary cover letter on our blog.

2. Provide evidence

Employers won't hire you on your legal CV alone. You must show you have the skills and experience to do the job in your covering letter. Highlight the evidence about your capabilities such as relevant qualifications and achievements, and awards you may have won.

3. Include testimonials

Include positive quotes and testimonials from former managers, colleagues, customers and suppliers to reinforce your credibility and personal qualities.

4. Tone

Depending on the kind of organisation and perhaps the seniority of the role you are applying for, you could use a business-like tone or even a more casual approach – but remember to ensure you stay professional at all times.

5. Most importantly - Show you can do the job

Don't forget that they will be shortlisting you only if you clearly demonstrate that you meet their selection criteria for the job. You must emphasise and prove your capabilities clearly.

Applying for legal roles on Totallylegal

For more advice and guidance on optimising you legal CV or how to write a cover letter for the roles you are applying for, visit our careers advice section.

If you’re ready to apply then start searching for the latest legal jobs today.

This article was written in collaboration with Personal Career Management, a career coaching and advice platform.