Think About You; Talk About Them

by Susanne Aronowitz
Associate Dean for Law Career Services

Most of the cover letters I’ve reviewed in preparation for summer recruitment positions share one thing in common: they focus on what the applicant hopes to gain from the position. Since every applicant stands to receive the same benefit from the position this is not usually a very effective way to stand out from the pack. While you should try to focus on jobs that will help you build your skills and expertise, I encourage you to keep this information to yourself (and perhaps your LCS advisor).

Instead, consider the employer’s perspective. You will attract an employer’s attention if you can find a way to articulate the unique way you can assist them. Do you have particular skills that will enable you to produce work efficiently? Will your familiarity with their subject matter enable you to produce sophisticated work product?

Bill from the Figuring Out Fulfillment blog offers great insight into this simple, yet often-missed strategy here.