How to Draft Tailored Cover Letters - with Templates and Examples

High Level Structural Overview

See the below high level template and pay close attention to the four main components of a cover letter, coloured in blue, green, red and purple.

Let's consider each of the four components...

1. Blue - Introduce Yourself

Keep this brief - what degree and university you are studying at; notable achievements/work experience.

2. Green: Why that organisation? → Link it to your passion and interests

Approach 1: Link it specifically to firm’s practice areas

This approach is if you're more of a law gun/nerd.

NB. A caveat of this approach is if you bring up specific deals/projects, you will be questioned by partners on your knowledge of this practice area; so you must be able to back yourself up!

Example: I am drawn to [Organisation Name] for your expertise in [practice group], as illustrated by [recent deal / project by firm]. My interest in [practice group] was developed through my [previous work experience], and further reflected in my academic achievements in [relevant law courses]. I am also interested in [other practice groups]. Though I may not be as knowledgeable in these areas, I am a dedicated and enthusiastic learner and will be sure to pick up new skills quickly.?

Approach 2: more holistic interest?

This approach is for the majority of students who still have no idea what practice group they wish to practice in. If this is the case, best to write in a broad holistic manner.

NB. A caveat of this approach is it can sound generic and untailored. One way you can tailor it is by referring to awards the firm has won (eg. 2023 Beaton Client Choice Awards for power and utilities sector)

Example: To pursue my interest in social policy and law, I am writing to apply for the [position] at [organisation]. I believe that the work of government agencies is vitally important and has wide-ranging impacts on how we live our lives, and I would like to contribute to the public interest through this role. As a/n [X degree] and Law student, I am interested in the way that public policy interacts with [major], and how policy can be designed to support people in challenging circumstances.

3. Red: Discuss your past experience → Link it to transferrable skills

The link is crucial. Do NOT just merely relist all the experience on your CV again. A cover letter provides you with an opportunity to 'sell/market' yourself.

A good mental framework to have is to ensure your cover letter shows why you would be a suitable fit in the following scenarios:

• If the partner cannot attend a meeting, can they be confident in you as a junior lawyer to still lead the client meeting?
• Will your partner feel good about taking you to client social events?

See the following examples of linking different types of experience to transferrable skills.

Example: Linking Legal Experience to Skills

Example: I believe my main strength lies in my ability to communicate clearly to relevant stakeholders. I have most recently worked at [company / previous work experience, legal or non-legal], where I helped to [list key tasks]. I worked independently to act on tasks in a timely manner, and adapted quickly to each day’s challenges within a team environment. Through this, I have gained strong organisational and communication skills, refined my attention to detail, and liaised with a range of people from different backgrounds. These experiences have allowed me to develop a foundation of transferable skills, which I can apply in a [paralegal, admin assistant, research etc] role with multiple and competing demands at [organisation].

Example: Linking Customer Service Experience to Skills

Example: At my internship with [relevant Organisation], I assisted with various customer service requests in a fast-paced, high-performing environment. This experience has strengthened my ability to engage effectively with clients from all walks of life, enhancing my verbal communication and professionalism. My commitment to excellence in client service can be further demonstrated through my proven abilities to meet sales targets under tight deadlines, enabling my attainment of [relevant award / target / goal].

Example: Linking University Society Subcommittee Experience to Skills

Example: In my capacity as [Student Leadership Role], I am responsible for overseeing the [role] Subcommittee, facilitating [role responsibilities/activities], and inaugurating the [important initiative/publication]. This role also sees me working collaboratively with the rest of the [leadership board/student society executive] to make important decisions for the society, providing me with strong leadership and teamwork skills.

4. Purple: Discuss your extracurriculars, hobbies, and volunteering → Link it to firm values

This section is optional in the sense that if you don't have a significant genuine interest in volunteering etc, there's no need to allocate significant word count here. However, if you are genuinely passionate about certain initiatives and have lots of experience to talk about, you should let this shine here and link it closely with firm values, initiatives, committees, pro bono etc.

Example: My personal values and interests suggest I would be an ideal cultural fit for [Organisation]. I actively participate in volunteer work at the [Volunteer Organisation] and would be keen to contribute to [Organisation’s] pro bono program. I share the social culture of [Organisation] as reflected through my active participation in various [sports / subcommittees / community programs etc.]. My drive for success and commitment to excellence is evidenced by my dedication in [extracurricular or academic activity that required dedication and discipline over a substantial period of time]. My extensive extra-curricular involvements have afforded me excellent organisational skills, and the ability to meet tight deadlines under pressure. They have also taught me how to work in a team, and how to adapt quickly to feedback.

P.S. I’m in the process of planning and curating Sproutify Sunday, an essential email newsletter for all law students. It will contain 3 segments:

1. Seedling Skills: Actionable advice to develop legal and professional skills?
2. Blooming Briefs: Concise summary of one major legal case or development?
3. Growth Goals: One reflective question to prompt purpose-driven direction

This will ensure you develop into a well rounded individual to best position yourself for career success.?

Be the first to know when the Sproutify Sunday newsletter launches! Subscribe here and check out the helpful guides!??