legal cover letter nz

CV & Cover Letter tips

Use these tips to ensure you give yourself the best opportunity for an interview.

Creating your CV

There is no-one-way to write a CV, but you should always try and incorporate these points.

2 pages maximum.
Presentation counts. Your CV should have a clear layout and be easy to navigate.
Make sure there are no spelling mistakes, and that punctuation and grammar are used correctly.
Explain any gaps in your CV.
Build skills and achievements into your previous experience.
Most firms and organisations will have tips their application process on their website, make sure you look at these before you apply.
Tailor your CV to the opportunity that you are applying for.
Make sure that you use the careers service at your university to ensure you get all the support available for everything to do with your career.

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Tips for your cover letter

When writing a cover letter, ensure you research the firm that you are applying to. If nothing else, please ensure that you check their website.

Start strongly and be clear in why you want this position. Why should the employer consider you? Articulate your reasons for applying and why you’re special.
Do not use bullet points.
Personalise your letter to the role and organisation – a lot of students end up putting the wrong organisation on their cover letter when making multiple applications. Make sure you do not do this, as these applications are likely to be rejected.
Be succinct with highlights and key achievements.
Do not regurgitate from the website.
Be enthusiastic.
Some organizations ask you to complete an application form instead of submitting a cover letter. Do not state ‘refer to CV’ or copy and paste the relevant part of your CV into your application form, fill out the answer in full (even if there is repetition).
Talk to the advisers at your career service at your university.

Download Cover Letter Guide

Business Posts

How to Write a Legal Cover Letter for Law Firms (that Gets you Noticed)

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Whether you’re just starting your legal journey or are an experienced legal professional seeking a new role, there’s no way around it: demand for legal positions is high. As the 2022 Legal Trends Report explains, in the 12 months before April 2022, nearly one in five lawyers left the law firm they were working for, and nine percent planned to leave their firm in the next six months.

Despite a high demand for legal positions, however, people still need legal expertise—and law firms need capable legal professionals to fill open roles.

Whether you’re a law student, recent graduate, or experienced legal professional, this post will help you with your legal cover letter writing. We’ve started by providing sample cover letters for legal positions below and will then guide you through the essentials of writing a compelling cover letter for law firms.

Legal cover letter examples

If you’re feeling overwhelmed when drafting a cover letter for law firms, don’t worry. Seeing a legal cover letter example can give you the confidence to write your own. Below, we’ve compiled a few different sample cover letters for legal positions, covering different backgrounds and levels of experience.

Cover letter examples for summer associates and interns, Columbia Law School.
Cover letter examples for 1L – 3L students, Harvard Law School .
Cover letter examples for 1L – 3L students, Yale Law School .
Cover letter example for applying to an immigration law firm by a recent graduate with previous paralegal experience .
Cover letter example for big law cover letter, Boston University.
Cover letter example for an IP lawyer with 11 years experience .
Cover letter example for a litigation attorney with 12 years experience .

Berkeley Law also provides an excellent guide for legal cover letters.

You can start by using one of these examples as inspiration for how to structure your cover letter and what you may want to highlight. You can also simply take insights from these sample cover letters for lawyers—insights you can apply to your own cover letter when following our tips below.

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Cover letter etiquette

Even after reviewing some legal cover letter examples, the dos and don’ts of legal cover letter writing aren’t always easy to spot. You may ask yourself: what should a legal cover letter include for a law firm? While the content of your cover letter will differ between employers, these points of etiquette should not.

Don’t skip it. The first, and potentially most important element of legal cover letter etiquette is writing one. While job sites and hiring portals may state ‘Cover Letter Optional’, disregard this, and ensure you always send a cover letter.
Be concise. It’s likely that the hiring manager is receiving dozens, maybe even hundreds of cover letters a day. Respect an employer’s time by getting straight to the point. Long legal cover letters may also indicate an inability to achieve quick and succinct results.
Match their tone. Write as if you’ve already been hired for the role. It’s subtle, but an employer will appreciate this personal touch.
Prioritize the employer. Don’t include unnecessary details about your life that won’t have any impact on how you’ll perform the job.
Don’t recycle legal cover letters. Be original. It’s time-consuming work, but it’ll show your potential employer that you’re dedicated.
Triple-check it. Spelling and grammatical errors should be avoided at all costs. Given the highly competitive nature of the legal job market, you don’t want to be passed up over a simple error.

Person researching legal cover letters for law firms

Addressing cover letters for lawyers

To whom it may concern: Always take the time to find the correct contact. When writing cover letters for law firms, it’s a common misstep to dedicate so much time and attention to the body of the letter that you overlook the basics—like who and how you’re addressing the letter.

Here are some best practices for addressing your legal cover letter:

Know who you’re speaking to. Do your research and be specific. Address your cover letter to the person responsible for hiring at the firm you’re contacting, like the senior partner or hiring manager. If you don’t have this information, the law firm’s website might come in handy, or you can contact the law firm’s human resources department for guidance.
Be careful with salutations. The salutation is a place to convey respect and showcase that you’ve taken the time to personalize the letter. Mistakes in the salutation are a sign that you’ll miss details, which won’t bode well for your chances at impressing your potential employer. If you’re certain of the recipient’s preferred gender-identifying language, you can write the salutation as “Dear Ms.” or Dear Mr.;” however, if you aren’t certain (and don’t make assumptions) or you don’t want to use gender-identifying language, drop the “Ms.” or “Mr.” and write out the person’s full first and last name.
Double-check your spelling. People will always notice if you spell their name wrong, and there are multiple ways to spell even common names. Ensure you start on the right foot by getting the basics right.

Main cover letter body

The body section of your cover letter is your chance to shine—and to succinctly summarize exactly how you meet the requirements set out in the job description.

In one or two paragraphs, give a high-level overview of your legal education and experience to show:

Why you want to work for this firm. Elaborate on what makes you genuinely excited about the firm—whether it is an area of interest you’ve specialized in, the firm’s reputation or mission, or past experiences that will make you a uniquely good fit.
Why this firm should hire you. Make clear connections between your qualifications and aspects of the role you’re applying for. If there is a job posting, look closely for key attributes that the firm is looking for, and then detail how you meet those expectations.

Highlighting your qualifications

Above all else, ensure your legal cover letter highlights your skills. Relevant qualifications for a law firm cover letter include:

Past legal work experience or positions.
Community service roles.
Academic or research specializations.
Publications.
Relevant awards you’ve received.
Your personal background.

For example, in the job posting (shown below) for an Associate Lawyer, the ideal candidate is described as having personal injury litigation experience, as well as someone who is “confident, highly motivated, possesses excellent communication skills, works well independently and as a part of a team. They must work well in a fast-paced office environment and take pride in exceeding expectations.”

Image of a job description for an Associate Lawyer position

If you were applying for this role, your cover letter’s body paragraphs might detail your past personal injury litigation experience and specific examples of how you’ve successfully communicated within a team and in a fast-paced environment.

Remember: Be specific, but keep in mind that this is not the place to restate your resume —if you can grab the hiring manager’s attention here, they will read your resume for those details. Your cover letter is where you can entice the reader to move on to your resume by providing context and highlighting how your experience lines up with what’s needed for the role.

Concluding paragraph

Finally, your concluding paragraph is where you’ll succinctly wrap the cover letter up, close the loop, and leave a positive impression. In your closing paragraph, be sure to:

Say thank you. Gratitude can make a difference, so always thank the reader for their consideration.
Assert your next steps. It’s fine to clearly outline how and when you will follow up on your application, rather than waiting indefinitely for an answer. And, if you say that you’ll follow up at a specific time, be sure to do it—and hold yourself to your own word.
Provide relevant contact details. Let the reader know how to reach you by phone or email, if these details are not already outlined in your letter’s header.

Tips for using your legal cover letter to stand out

The legal industry is rapidly evolving, and job hunters need to set themselves apart in order to get hired (unless, of course, you decide to start your own law firm ).

If you’re applying for a job as a lawyer, whether it’s a traditional position or a legal work-from-home job , here are five tips to make sure your cover letter lands at the top of the pile.

Person writing a legal cover letter for a law firm

1. Make it personal

Perhaps the most important tip for writing cover letters for lawyers is to make it personal.

Many of your competitors have similar education and professional experience, so being generic is a fast track to being forgotten.

Use a personalized cover letter to showcase the unique reasons why you’re the best candidate. Show that you know the person that you’re writing to and highlight any connections. If that isn’t possible, you can always write about the firm to show that you’ve done your research.

2. Prioritize the positive

When you’re writing a lawyer cover letter, focus on what you have to offer. Regardless of the reasons why you’re looking for a new job, you bring a unique mix of attributes to the table. Highlight these attributes, whether they’re your:

Other legal careers
Relevant work experience

If you’re a law student or recent graduate, you may not have a long legal career to highlight. However, you can still note strengths like technology skills that make you an asset.

As the 2022 Legal Trends Report found, for example, technology has significantly changed the way lawyers work over the past two years. To a hiring law firm, being tech competent and familiar with certain cloud-based tools like Clio could be an advantage that sets you apart from other candidates.

3. Get to the point

Legal cover letters are not the place to be long-winded, and droning on will almost certainly have the opposite effect of what you’re going for. Keep cover letters for attorneys short, to the point, and persuasive—the trick is to be memorable and limit yourself to one page.

Because you want to make a lasting impression in a single page, it’s also a good idea to check your cover letter’s sentence structure. Do you start all of your sentences the same way? Are they all the same length? Ensure there’s some variety so your reader stays engaged.

4. Set the right tone

Tone matters. While what you say in a cover letter for lawyers is obviously important, it also matters how you say it.

No matter what type of legal job you’re applying for, you always want to convey a professional tone. However, depending on the law firm you’re applying to, using a personal tone may work to your advantage. Tailor your tone to match that of the law firm you’re applying to.

If you’re writing a big law cover letter, for example, you’ll want to err on the side of being more formal. For a smaller local law firm? Check their website and match the tone to demonstrate your familiarity with their firm.

5. Proofread

There is zero room for typos or grammatical errors in cover letters for lawyers. With the high level of competition for legal jobs, don’t give hiring managers a reason to eliminate you. Take the time to carefully proofread your cover letter. It’s also a good idea to enlist someone else to proofread your cover letters.

In a crowded legal job market, there’s no better way to set yourself apart than an excellent legal cover letter. Ensure you’re putting your best foot forward with your future employer by:

Making it personal. At every step, customize your cover letter to the firm you’re applying to—from the tone to the specific skills you detail.
Keeping it brief. Cover letters for lawyers are a one-page summary to let the hiring manager know that you’re a candidate they should talk to further. You want to give them enough information to draw them in, but not overwhelm them and risk losing interest.
Showcasing your strengths . Focus on the positives, and don’t be afraid to highlight how your past and experiences make you uniquely qualified.

While finding a new legal job in a competitive market isn’t exactly easy, staying resilient and adaptive will lead you to success. By crafting a great cover letter, you’re more likely to be noticed in this—and any—job market.

How do I write a cover letter for a law job?

Start by introducing yourself. In the first paragraph, include details about your current role (or education, if you’re a student). Be sure to mention any referrals or mutual acquaintances. Next, explain why you’d be a great fit for this particular firm. Include specific reasons.

What do law firms look for in cover letters?

Senior partners and hiring managers will be paying attention to your qualifications. It’s helpful to connect your past legal work, academic specializations, and other life experiences with the job description. Remember, they want to hire someone who can do the job.

How to write a cover letter for legal internship?

Your cover letter for a legal internship should be concise, non-generic, error-free, and employer-focused. Use your opening paragraph to introduce yourself, the main body to summarize your qualifications, and the concluding paragraph to leave a positive impression and outline next steps.

How to address a legal cover letter with no name?

Address your legal cover letter to the person responsible for hiring at the firm, such as a senior partner or hiring manager. If you do not have this information, consult the firm’s website or contact its human resources department.

We published this blog post in June 2020. Last updated: April 28, 2023 .

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How to write an NZ cover letter (with examples and templates)

Along with your CV, a cover letter is essential to any NZ job application. Let's get you started.

Using a cover letter template and examples are a great way to get started

Every New Zealand job application should include a cover letter.

This document is key to showing an employer you’re serious about their vacancy, and for demonstrating what you bring to the table . Despite its importance, many people aren’t sure how to write a cover letter – and their applications suffer as a result.

That’s why we’ve created this guide, giving you advice on everything from what to include, to how to lay it out.

We’ve also snuck in a few examples to make life even easier for you … aren’t we nice?

Cover letters vs. CVs: what’s the difference?

To understand the role cover letters play in job applications, it’s important to realise how they differ from CVs:

1. Purpose:

CVs give a broad picture of you as an applicant – providing details such as educational background and employment history . By contrast, a cover letter targets why you want this specific role, and how your skills and experience make you a great candidate.

While there will be areas of overlap as you select qualifications or abilities to draw out in your cover letter, it definitely should not be an elongated version of your CV.

An NZ cover letter should be no longer than one page, while CVs are usually between one and two.

The most obvious visual difference between these documents and CVs hinges around bullet points.

While your CV should be a bullet point bonanza, cover letters favour full sentences. That’s not to say you can’t have any bullets in a cover letter, just use them more sparingly.

It’s not always easy to know what to put in your cover letter.

You should include a cover letter with every job application.

What to include in a cover letter

1. your contact info, the date and the business’ address.

At the top of your cover letter should be:

Your full name, contact details and home address
The date you submit the application
The business’ postal address

It should look like this:

Head up your cover letter like this.

2. Your opener

People worry about how to start a cover letter , but there’s a simple formula and structure for getting this right:

Make it personal : start with ‘dear’, and address it to a person – i.e. the hiring manager. If their name isn’t in the job listing, try a good old fashioned stalk of the company website, or ring the business and find out. ‘To whom it may concern’ is a no go.

Make it clear : organisations often list multiple vacancies at a time, so make it obvious which position you’re applying for. A sentence like, ‘I’m writing to apply for the Marketing Assistant role, as advertised on Trade Me Jobs’, will do the trick.

Make it punchy : next, add a snappy one-liner summing up why you’re interested in the role and what you’d bring to their business. Remember, you can go into more detail in the interview itself. For example:

You have options when choosing your cover letter intro.

3. Why them

A common cover letter mistake is to only focus on yourself. Before choosing you, employers want to know why you’re choosing them. This helps sort candidates who are genuinely passionate about their organisation from those who are mass applying to anything and everything.

Warning : this section is not about inflating the hiring manager's ego by flattering the company – be positive, but be thoughtful.

Your cover letter should tell the hiring manager why you want to work there.

Now, it’s time to sell yourself.

This section of your cover letter is where you highlight your most relevant skills and experience.

You can draw on anything from previous work experience to certificates and qualifications. The important bit is linking whatever you mention to the job – simply listing skills is not the answer.

To do this effectively, you need to carefully study the job ad and identify what capabilities the employer values most. If your Trade Me Jobs Profile is up-to-date, you can then quickly skim your skills and experience to find those which most closely match the job description.

Top tip: the more detail you can give, the better. Helped raise sales? Great. Helped raise sales by 6%? Even better.

Use your cover letter to highlight core relevant skills.

If you want to add some extra skills or information to this section, a bullet point list is a good option. Note : only do this after introducing your headline examples in full sentence form, as above, and keep your list to three or four concise bullets.

5. Signing off

The end of your cover letter should (politely) prompt the reader to get in touch with you to arrange the next steps. Make sure you end on a high, and continue the energy from earlier in your closing sentence, for example:

Sign off your cover letter with a call to action.

How to format a cover letter

With your content sorted, it’s now about nailing the visuals. Cover letters are usually easier than CVs in this regard, as they’re laid out like a traditional letter. However, there are a few things to bear in mind:

What font should I use? Keep it simple, and the same as on your CV. If your font is hard to read, or too small, the letter will end up in the wrong pile.
How long should a cover letter be? New Zealand cover letters should be under one page long.
Should I use paragraphs? Would you read huge, unbroken chunks of text? We doubt it, so make sure to break up your cover letters into paragraphs.
What are the correct cover letter margins? Leave these at their default setting so your cover letter has plenty of blank space, and doesn’t look crowded.

All done? Not quite.

Perhaps the most important stage of cover letter writing is proofreading. After all that hard work, you don’t want a few silly typos or poor punctuation letting you down.

So check it yourself, then get someone else to have a look, then have a final glance.

Once you’re happy, it’s time to attach it to your application, and hit send.

Al Hall is a regular contributor at Trade Me Jobs and Trade Me Property. He’s dedicated to helping people succeed in their aspirations to find their dream job and place to live.

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The importance of cover letter, what is a cover letter.

Let’s go back to basics – what is a cover letter? A cover letter acts as a personal introduction in a professional setting. Usually, it’s a separate document that you attach to a job application along with your CV. You should use it to demonstrate your personality and summarise why you are the right person for the job, so the reader can consider the rest of your CV with this set up in mind.

Follow our tips for how to write a cover letter or download our cover letter template.

Why write a cover letter?

The idea for writing cover letters for your resume is simple: it needs to be engaging enough for an employer to read to feel compelled to find out more about your skills and experience in your resume, before (hopefully) calling you in for an interview.

Not all candidates make the effort to write a tailored and personalised cover letter, so by making sure you write a cover letter that answers specifics needs in the job ad, it’ll help separate you from other applicants. In turn, giving you a greater likelihood of being shortlisted for an interview.

Download your Cover Letter template

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Cover letter advice.

Recruiters & hiring managers often receive hundreds of applications for each job. You need to start with a great cover letter to gain attention. Learn how with this video from Hays.

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Keep it succinct and relevant to the job you’re applying for. Your cover letter should not exceed five paragraphs.
State what your motivation is behind your application.
Just as you would in your CV, use strong verbs to demonstrate action and accomplishments, such as ‘organise’ or ‘supervise’.
Optimise the subject line. Also check the job description again, in case the employer asks applicants to include something specific in the subject line.
If you are applying for a job online rather than email, consider putting your cover letter and resume into the same document so they don’t get separated.
Remember, our cover letter template is free to download and can be used as another way to capture the attention of a recruiter or hiring manager and encourage them to more closely review your resume. Good luck.

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CVs and cover letters

Take the hard work out of writing your CV and cover letter. Get advice about what to write, support to show you what to do, and free templates you can use.

When you apply for a job, employers will look at your:

CV, to see your skills, any qualifications, and your work history
cover letter, to find out what kind of person you are and why you want this job.

They'll use this to decide if they want to interview you, so it's really important to make a good impression.

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If you've been getting one of these benefits for more than 12 months talk to your local service centre or call our Job Search line on 0800 779 009 .

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Makes sure your CV has all the information employers look for.
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How to write a cover letter

Careers.govt.nz has great advice about:

what your cover letter needs
how to make it look good
templates you can use.

Cover letter templates

Robert Half's cover letter examples and templates are designed to support you in finding and securing the perfect job. Whether your job application is submitted by mail or electronically, your cover letter is the first document that most employers read, and acts as a sort of appetiser to your resume .

It is critical that your cover letter captures the best parts of your resume without being a duplication of this document, and that it is personal, tailored and convincing.

Download our free cover letter templates below:

Accounting cover letter template
Executive cover letter template
IT cover letter template

Here are our top tips on how to best use these cover letter templates, no matter what role you’re applying for.

Be strict with the length

Stick to one page. Whether you’re using a cover letter template as a receptionist applying for their first job or because you’re a senior executive trying to secure the top job, cover letters should never be much more than 300-350 words, or about four paragraphs. You improve your chances of persuading an employer to read your resume if you’ve kept your cover letter equal parts impressive and brief.

However you adapt it, be tough on yourself when it comes to cover letter length. It is better to give the employer a taste of the rest of your application rather than risk wearing them down with too much information.

Get the details and facts straight

If you’re going to address specific employers at an organisation, make sure you get their names, titles, addresses and emails correct. Even a modest error in title or name could give the impression that your cover letter lacked effort and attention, and that you failed to the take the time required to research and find the correct details. Assuming you’ve obtained the correct details, err on the side of caution when using them, particularly titles and names. If in doubt of the correct usage, always opt for the more formal title followed by surname format. For example, “To Mrs Verberne”, or “To Dr. Tengku”.

These days, most job applications are submitted online, so often an office or mail address is unnecessary, but including it can show you’ve gone to the effort of finding it, verifying it and including it in your cover letter.

Personalise your cover letter

This is the fun part. While your resume tends to be fact, outcome or accomplishment based in a way that the critical information is easy to identify and comprehend, your cover letter is the place where you can tell a prospective employer a little more about yourself. In your cover letter you can include information about the qualities you possess and what you are uniquely positioned to bring to the organisation to improve both its process and people.

You could also imbue these cover letter examples with personality by including a short anecdote explaining how you became passionate about project management, or briefly reference a quote or insight from a financial sector leader you admire. Unlike your resume, your cover letter is the perfect place to include these elements and show that in addition to all your practical work and success metrics, you’re an ambitious and dedicated worker that will be a great cultural fit and likeable colleague.

Your cover letter is not your resume

While personalising and tailoring these cover letter examples, remember that it’s not just a process of copying the information that resides in your resume. In fact, sometimes writing a cover letter can be the most challenging part of completing a job application, as you have to promote yourself, detail your ambition and express your enthusiasm for a new role and organisation in a way that is distinct from your resume, but still complementary. It’s a delicate balancing act, but if done right, you can be sure you’ll impress employers.

Always include a thank you or courtesy

Use the courtesies in our examples or come up with your own, but whatever you do, make sure they are always included at the conclusion of your letter. This gesture shows a politeness and gratitude that is both expected and welcomed by employers when they’re reading through, often, hundreds of applications - so always allow room for this.

Proofread and spell check

This is step is a no-brainer, though for a number of reasons it can often be overlooked. Always run an electronic spelling and grammar check over your cover letter and if possible, get a friend, family member or mentor to read over the document before submitting it. This process only takes a few minutes and you’d be amazed at what a second set of eyes can pick up.

Robert Half’s cover letter templates can be used as they are, or simply as a source of inspiration for designing your own impressive letter that employers won’t be able to ignore. However you decide to use them, remember that your cover letter plays a vital role in engaging hiring managers and progressing you to the next stage of recruitment – so make it perfect!

Take a look at our cover letter tips hub for more cover letter writing tips and examples.

Resume Templates Simple Professional Modern Creative View all
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Cover Letter Templates Simple Professional Modern Creative View all
Cover Letter Examples Nursing Administrative Assistant Internship Graduate Teacher View all
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Legal cover letter example

The aim of the cover letter greeting: Set a professional and formal tone, while addressing your letter to the correct person.

Key takeaways for a legal cover letter.

Making the case for your employment takes a legal cover letter that does more than state the facts. Hiring managers are looking for someone with excellent reasoning, attention to detail, dedication to the law and the ability to work well with others (and/or bill a lot!).

Not everyone who works in the legal field is a lawyer, of course, although there are 1.33 million lawyers in the United State, 1 in 4 of those in either New York or California, according to the American Bar Association . With more than 443,000 law firms ( IBISWorld ), there are plenty of job opportunities for support workers as well.

Your legal cover letter is a brief on your career, but how do you make it stand out? That’s where resume.io comes in.

In this cover letter guide, along with the corresponding legal cover letter examples, we’ll cover the following topics to help you design the best cover letter possible:

How to choose the best cover letter format and what paragraphs the cover letter should include
How to maximize the effect of each cover letter paragraph (header, greeting, intro, body and conclusion)
What approach to take when writing your cover letter
What mistakes to avoid when writing your legal cover letter.

The guide below will analyze the details and suggest ways to make the most of this one-page addition to your application. (You can also check out our library of 125+ cover letter examples ).

Let’s start out with how to structure your legal cover letter.

Best format for a legal cover letter

Legal arguments have structure and so do legal cover letters. Recruiters are looking for this structure, so it is in your best interest to take it into account. When you frame your application, make sure it includes the following elements:

The cover letter header
The greeting / salutation
The cover letter intro
The middle paragraphs (body of the letter)
The ending paragraph of your cover letter (conclusion and call-to-action)

Within this 400-500 word document, you have an opportunity to lay out the evidence for your employment. Your resume, with the exception of the profile section, is a dry listing of your career highlights, but your letter gives you room to show who you are.

The comprehensive cover letter guide offers a great overview of this element of your application, but this text gets deeper into each paragraph and the specifics of how to write a letter for a legal position.

The legal cover letter example below gives an overview of how to create your own application:

Dear Ms. Cleary,

I am writing to convey my sincere interest in being considered for the Legal Assistant position currently seeking candidates at Hutchins & Hutchins. I understand what a busy law firm it is, and I can assure you I have the background and skills to properly fulfill this curcial role. I have served as a Legal Administrative Assistant for the last 8+ years following my graduation from Boston University in their Paralegal Studies program. I am highly skilled in providing administrative support for attorneys, and performing legal research.

I am well aware that Hutchins & Hutchins is one of the most sought after firms in the New York area. Luckily I am experienced in working in firms that see hundreds of cases per year, and I am adept in effectively managing workflow while ensuring proper prioritization. I am also a firm believer that with cooperation and collaboration comes success, especially in a crucial support role as a Legal Assistant.

Is there a time we could arrange to further discuss this wonderful opportunity? I am looking forward to hearing from you at your earliest convenience.

Best Regards,

Marion Diaz

If you’re looking for additional inspiration for cover letter writing, you can check out our related administrative and legal cover letter samples:

Lawyer cover letter sample
Executive assistant cover letter sample
Administrative assistant cover letter sample
Office assistant cover letter sample
Legal Assistant cover letter sample
Paralegal cover letter sample

Cover letter header

This may seem obvious, but it bears spelling out: If you want the job, you have to make sure the recruiter can easily contact you. That means prominently displaying your name, email and phone number in the header of your legal cover letter.

Getting a positive judgment is your secondary goal here. Create a visually pleasing design for your information. Don’t get too flashy, but add a bold font or use interesting alignment that will hook the reader into remembering your application while remaining legible.

Legible is the key word here. If you create any obstacle to contacting you, the hiring manager may move on to the next candidate.

Account for the ATS within your entire application

When you submit your legal resume and cover letter online, you have to contend with the Applicant Tracking System. This is no small matter. The ATS scans and sorts your applicant into the CRM recruiting system, but it then uses algorithms programmed to rank your documents. How? With keywords and phrases linked to the job opening.

Not all systems will scan your cover letter, but it’s better to be cautious here. Make sure you put the words “email” next to your address and “phone / cell / mobile” next to your number.

The aim of this section: Get a positive judgment on the look of your application and create a smooth path toward contacting you.

Cover letter greeting

If you present before a judge, you know to start with “Your Honor.” It sets the tone for the rest of your arguments. Your legal cover letter greeting does the same. You can’t go wrong with polite formality when applying to a law firm.

We recommend the standard “Dear Mr/Mrs/Ms. Surname” or “Your Honor” when you are applying for a clerkship or other work with a judge. You will note that our cover letter examples use “Dear,” since it is appropriate in 99% of cases. Remember to triple check that you have the spelling of the hiring manager’s name correct and are using the correct title. There’s no quicker way to alienate someone and show that you are not attentive to detail than to get these things wrong.

If you cannot get the name of a person, “to whom it may concern” is a fine alternative. We suggest staying away from more casual greetings such as “Dear Estate Planning Department,” because it may come off as flippant.

Dear Ms. Cleary,

Cover letter introduction

Your opening statement lays out the facts and hits the highest points of your legal career. Research the firm to which you are applying and carefully consider the message you wish to send based on the clientele, practice, size and philosophy of the firm. Each application should speak directly to the hiring manager or legal team for whom you wish to work.

A convincing legal cover letter leaves no room for a hung jury. Send your message clearly and confidently from the start: I am a great candidate for the job! You do this by aligning the career win you choose to name with the objectives of the position.

Maintain a consistently professional tone, but don’t be afraid to pat yourself on the back. A healthy does of self-assuredness is a good thing in a cover letter.

The aim of the intro: Pique their interest and explain in no uncertain terms why you’re a great candidate for the job.

Cover letter middle part (body)

The body of your legal cover letter gives you the space you need to back up your introduction with strong evidence. Before you start writing, ask yourself these questions:

What makes me great at my job?
What difficult situations/clients/lawyers/cases show that I can handle the extraordinary?
How can I show the wide range of skills and talents I bring to the table?
What personality traits do I want to bring out?

Frame your body paragraphs around the answers to these questions. Maintain your tone of professionality and show who you are by detailing how you approach your job. Hiring managers will gain an understanding of your style by the language you use and the accomplishments you choose to detail. Make sure the work examples you choose explain how you will be an asset in your desired position.

Project confidence in your legal prowess and dedication to the law.

The aim of the middle part of your cover letter: Define your style and showcase the best of your career.

How to close a legal cover letter (conclusion and sign-off)

Yes, this is your closing statement. You probably know how this works even if you are not a litigator. Strongly restate your claim: I am the best person for the job! Summarize your evidence and add something new for the hiring manager to think about. That something could be the reason you chose the field you did, a case or client that changed the way you look at the law or a mentor that helped you get where you are.

The purpose of this personal touch is twofold: It gives you an opportunity to show some emotion and it leaves room for follow-up questions during your interview.

Finally, respectfully tell the juror what you want them to do. In this case, schedule an interview.

The aim of the close of your cover letter: Sum up your case, add a personal touch and remind the hiring manager that you would love an interview.

I hope to hear from you soon to further discuss this exciting opportunity.

Writing psychology: how to convey your work ethic in your cover letter

Legal professionals by trade know how to make a case, so how do you project confidence without coming off as u ngenuine?

A winning legal cover letter gets a positive verdict by keeping the following in mind:

Steer clear of too much legal jargon. Speak from the heart about your attachment to your career and your pride in your achievements.
Demonstrate your understanding of the importance of the position you seek.
Use an example that highlights your research and writing skills.
Illustrate how you collaborate with colleagues or your style in managing clients.

Legal teams often work long hours together, so if the hiring manager gets the sense that you aren’t passionate about the work or don’t function well in a group, you may not get the chance to show off your keen legal mind.

Basic mistakes in a legal application letter and how to avoid them

Neglecting your technical skills. Legal professionals need to know their way around computers, scheduling and online search tools, not just the courtroom.
Keep your stories short. Lawyers have a reputation for longwindedness, but this is not the place for it. If you can’t get in and out in two sentences or less, your anecdote is too long for a cover letter.
Spell check, grammar check, proofread! You are in a field that requires attention to detail, so make sure you pay attention to the details here. Don’t let a small error bench your chances.
Show off your expertise in your area of law as well as your general knowledge of law operations.
Illustrate your work style so the hiring manager knows you’re a great fit for the firm.
Exude confidence and passion about your work while keeping your tone professional.
Choose evidence that proves that you are the best candidate for the particular job you’re applying for.

Free professionally designed templates

Free cover letter template

A cover letter is all about making a great first impression and giving your job application the best chance of making progress. A well-written cover letter will encourage a potential employer to read through to your resumé and get in touch to find out more or set up an interview.

We’ve come up with a template to help you get this all down on paper. Use it as your starting point and you’ll be on track to a great cover letter that will get your application noticed.

Remember, this is just a basic outline of the information to include, so make it your own by including skills and experience specific to you.

Download our free cover letter template

Download cover letter template

Think of your cover letter as a pitch – a way to introduce yourself professionally and show the value you could bring to the role you’re applying for. Your resumé is there to document your skills, experience, and achievements, but your cover letter sums these things up in a way that speaks to the job and offers a sense of who you are.

It’s also your chance to show why you’re interested in the particular role, and that you’ve done your research about the company or organisation.

You can tailor the cover letter to you and the job you’re applying for, by explaining:

why you’re interested in that role
what the most relevant skills and experience you could bring to it.

“I’m starting out my career in…"

You want to open your cover letter by giving the reader a sense of who you are and why you’re interested in the role.

Alternatively, you could pick an element of the role or field that is exciting and start on that.

Don’t be afraid to vary from the standard opening line by using these first sentences to introduce yourself and your skills in a more personal and unique way.

You might write an opening that explains where you’re at in your career, and where you’re aiming for next. Or perhaps you’d like to emphasise a particular aspect of the job or field of work that appeals to you, and relate it back to the skills or attributes required for the role. For example:

“ I’ve committed myself to building skills in <aspect of the job> and <another aspect > throughout my work as an <your current role> . Now, I’m ready to take the next step in my career. The <job title> role at <company name> would allow me to contribute my skills to the <team name> team, and in doing so, help <company name> to succeed in <what the company does> .”
“ Providing patient-centred care has grown to become my key focus as I establish my nursing career. I’m passionate about ensuring dignity and respect, and that’s why this role as Graduate Nurse at Smith Hospital appeals so greatly to me .”

"<Company name> has been of interest to me since …"

By showing your genuine interest and enthusiasm in this role and the business, you’re showing the reader why you’re interested and that you’ve done your research.

This is your time to shine with the knowledge you have about the business, what you admire or like and where you think you fit or can help them achieving their business goals.

"I welcome the opportunity…"

This final section of the cover letter should sum up your enthusiasm for the role and how you believe you can make a contribution to both the role and the business. It’s also an opportunity to suggest next steps in the process and thank the reader for their time.

Once you’ve used the template to create your own cover letter, come back to it with fresh eyes and ensure there are no errors or things you’ve missed. Try reading it aloud, or better yet, have someone you trust look over it to give you feedback.

Ultimately, you want to make your cover letter as compelling as possible, to capture the reader’s attention then make them want to get in contact with you. And the best way to do that is to make sure it’s a true reflection of you as a person and what you’ve achieved.

Discover what roles are right for you and the job opportunities available, with our explore careers tool .

Cover letters: The good and the bad

7 cover letter openers to land you an interview

8 things to cut from your cover letter.

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How to Write a Cover Letter - Templates and 40+ Must-Know Tips

The first step sees the ATS software check CVs for keywords to sort the job applications into the relevant or not relevant piles.
The recruiter or hiring manager then reads the relevant CVs and cover letters. To maximise your employment chances, the cover letter must catch the recruiter's eye and get them to read your application .
Content
Presentation
Final Checks
Checklist Before Submitting Your Application
Cover Letters Templates

If you are applying to a manager within the prospective employer , they may be looking at you as someone they might enjoy working with, as well as someone who will be an asset to the team.
If a consultant is handling the recruitment, they will be looking for someone who exactly matches the criteria and that they can sell to their client. Recruiters don't get paid unless they place someone in the job, so make sure you know exactly who you are writing to.
Overall, the cover letter should focus on what's important and always eliminate irrelevant information. If you're shortlisted, a recruitment agency will (usually) forward the letter to the hiring manager at the company. For this reason, what you put in the contents is crucially important. Our six steps (below) guide you through building it out.

Six Steps to Build the Body of Your Cover Letter

You should have already put the position you are applying for at the head of the letter, so there is no need to repeat.
You are selling yourself here; use the first couple of sentences introduce yourself as someone with the required experience and skills and tell them what an asset you could be to their company.
Your aim is to capture the reader's attention from the start and persuade them to read the rest of the letter, review your CV and shortlist you for the job.
Expanding ranges for (product name) from CBD stores into the suburbs, generating 57% growth in sales
Successfully selling a new product range into New World stores
Read the advertised vacancy carefully and try to pick out the key points they are looking for.
Make sure you match the criteria the employer is seeking.
Don't think: "These are my skills; let me tell you about them". Think: "You are looking for this skill; let me tell you how I have it."
Don't just repeat the advert verbatim - tie it in to your current experience.
Ensure your letterhead is nicely formatted by using a table.
Insert a 2 X 4 table, put your details in the first line (right box), the addressee and the job title in line on the second line (left box), the date on the third row (left box), and the vacancy details in the forth row (left box).
Align the left column to the left and the right column to the right.
When you are done, right-click anywhere in the table, select "borders and shading", and choose "none".
Make sure when you upload the file you click on "remove the properties and security information" - you'll need to right click on the file and then open "properties". This avoids the issue of the file name from another application appearing inadvertently in the file you send.
Spelling: Be sure to use a spellchecker. Take particular care with names and addresses; it can be a bit embarrassing to send someone a letter and spell their name wrong.
Commonly confused words: Make sure you aren't talking about your roll instead of your role , and that you should have rather than should of , as well as using the right there , their , they're .
Abbreviations: If the advert uses terms like B2B or ATL, you should use them in your letter. Other abbreviations should be avoided. The recruiter looking at your application might not have the technical knowledge to understand an acronym you are using even if it is standard in your work. Companies often have in-house acronyms outsiders won't get. To avoid any issues, write these out in full.
Capital letters: Check that you have capital letters in the right places. Your word processor might automatically capitalise the first letter of your email address; it will look much better if it is all lower case.
Consistent fonts: Check that you have the same font in the right size throughout the letter. Random paragraphs in a different font, size or spacing is not a good look. Check that any use of bolding or italics is appropriate.
Use the right email address: [email protected] might be acceptable for casual use, but you'd be better off setting up [email protected] for job applications and other serious occasions.
Read it out loud to make certain that it has a clear, logical structure: it must introduce you, say why you would be a good candidate, and finish with a call to action.
Subject line: If you are sending by email, always ensure that you have a clear subject line: Application for Level 2 Lab Technician Vacancy . Never send an email without a subject line.
File names: Never just call the file coverletter.pdf, as it looks generic and suggests it's not personalised. Always put your name EdwardSmith_coverletter.pdf.
Uploading: If you are uploading the cover letter to a website along with your CV, make sure to save it as a PDF so that it will always look exactly as you want it to. If you upload a Word file and the employer is using other software, or a different version of Word, the formatting, in some instances, could be changed and undo all your work.
Emailing: If you plan to send the cover letter and CV by email, do not send the letter as an attachment. The odds of someone opening it are not good. Write the letter in the body of the email following the same guidelines as above and attach the CV. Make sure the CV also has an appropriate file name such as EdwardSmith_CV.pdf.
Email signature: If you have an automatic email signature, make sure it is appropriate for business use.

Summary and Our View:

Overall, following the above guidelines will ensure that you have a professional-looking cover letter with good readability.
Putting in the effort on your cover letter will always stand you in good stead and might be the difference between someone reading your letter and someone just skipping past it to the next one in the pile.
Content is equally important, which we outline below, but you should not neglect presentation even if your cover letter has excellent substance.
Read the advert carefully for keywords and criteria and do some research on the company
Address it to the right person
Be clear and concise
Have a structure – beginning, middle, end
Target your letter
Use active words to describe your work – accomplished, achieved, led, created, increased, identified
Highlight specific achievements and successes
Don't forget your full contact details
Don't forget to say what job you are applying for
Avoid writing a dull opening paragraph. If your first paragraph isn't interesting, it will be the only one they read. Make sure it tells them who you are and why you're a great candidate
Don't fail to make your case. Don't be arrogant, but show some confidence in what you have to offer and why it is in their interest to hire you
Don't just repeat what is in your CV. No copy-pasting - people are too busy to read things twice
Don't forget a call to action in your sign-off
Don't start every sentence with "I" (instead, try to mix it up a bit)
Don't go on too long. One full page is perfect
Don't forget your attachments
Microsoft Office offers cover letter templates (there are free and premium versions). However, these are not specific to New Zealand employers.
CV Template and Guide
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Recruitment Agencies in Auckland , Wellington and Christchurch
How to Improve Your LinkedIn Profile

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how to write a cover letter for a job application.

Why a cover letter..

A common mistake which you as a job seekers can make is spending too much time finessing your resume and forgetting to include a cover letter as part of your job application. As a jobseeker, you should never neglect to include a cover letter. Cover letters are often the single most under-utilised tool in your job search arsenal. Understanding the secrets of how to write a great cover letter is almost as important as the resume itself.

Although you may hate the thought of having to write one, your cover letter provides you with the perfect opportunity to summarise specifically what makes you stand out as the number one applicant for the job you are applying for. It is here that you can outline to your potential employer what makes you a great fit for both the role and the company. It is where you can express your personality and give the hiring manager an idea about you as a person, not just your skills and expertise. Writing a poor cover letter (or even worse, not writing one at all) can impact negatively on how your resume is perceived.

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In general, cover letters for job applications should.

be tailored to be read specifically by the hiring manager advertising the role
show that you have read the advertisement carefully, considered it and understand what is required of you as the potential employee
be concise and well structured, clearly linking your experience to the requirements of the position advertised.
be kept to around 5 paragraphs in length at most
be positive and confident, compelling the hiring manager to look at your resume.
speak the language of the hiring manager, and
include a call to action prompting the hiring manager to contact you to arrange an interview

step 1. who should you address your cover letter to?

Where possible, you should always personalise your cover letter. You may be tempted to use a variation on 'To whom it may concern' as your opening line, however there is no better way to show your interest in the organisation than by taking the time to find out who it is that has advertised the role and addressing the letter directly to them.

Usually you can find the hiring manager’s information either directly listed on the job advertisement (usually down the bottom in the 'contact us to apply' section), or if this is left blank, try looking on the company's career page or via your LinkedIn network to determine who has advertised the role.

step 2. introduce yourself

Often your cover letter is the first interaction the prospective employer will have with you - well before they open your resume. This is why it is imperative that when writing your cover letter you must introduce yourself and give the employer a sense of who you are and more importantly, why they should hire you for the role. A great opening in a cover letter should include your key experience and take particular care to outline your demonstrated skills and how they match the requirements listed in the job description. Showcase what sets you apart from competing applicants. Don't forget to use strong action words and ensure the overall tone of your message is confident.

Here's an example introductory paragraph in a cover letter

"I am writing to apply for your recently advertised role of business development manager in Auckland. Having over 4 years experience working as a Sales Manager in the Financial industry, I believe I am the perfect candidate for your role. As an expert in field sales, I pride myself on my excellent communication and negotiation skills, and my superior ability to provide tailored solutions to my clients. In your advertisement, you mentioned you are looking for someone who is energetic and who can drive sales margins. I am highly personable, cheerful and dynamic and it is my unique personality which really helps me to excel and grow both my portfolio of clients as well as the overall account worth. I am consistently a top performer and I know I would be an asset to your sales team."

step 3. show that you have taken the time to research the company

One of the biggest oversights that people make when they are writing a cover letter is to make it all about themselves, but one of the best ways you can make your job application stand out from the crowd is by researching the business you are applying with, and including information in your cover letter that only a person familiar with the company would know.

Visit the company website, and Google the company’s latest news. In particular, a good place to start is looking up the careers page on the website of your potential employer and researching what sets them apart as an employer. Familiarise yourself with what the company does and how it talks about itself so that you will be able to mention this in your cover letter, and also during your interview. This will help your job application stand out.

Here’s an example:

"I have always admired ABC company and so when I saw your job advertisement I jumped at the chance to apply. Having read an article just the other day about how ABC company is expanding its operations into our western region, I can see how robust your business strategy is, and would love to be a part of this exciting new growth period in your organisation"

step 4: include a call to action

Your cover letter must finish on a strong call to action, encouraging the potential employer to look through your resume and to contact you to arrange an interview date/time.

Here’s an example of what and how to include a strong call to action at the end of a cover letter:

"Please see attached my resume. As my skills and experience demonstrates, I believe I would be a perfect fit for your organisation and I welcome the opportunity to meet with you and discuss this opportunity further. Please call me on 0123 123 123 or email me at [email protected] so that we can arrange a suitable date/time. I look forward to hearing from you soon."

top tip: don't use a generic cover letter for all your job applications

Once you have taken the time to write your first cover letter, it might be tempting to recycle its use for all future job applications - don't do it!

While you might save time in the short-term, having a tailored cover letter vs a generic one might be the difference between getting your dream job or losing it because of this oversight.

Your cover letter needs to show that you understand exactly what the employer wants from you as a prospective employee, and that your skills and expertise match those that the organisation has outlined as requirements in their job advertisement. Since no two job ads are the same, the wording in your cover letters should always reflect these differentiations. Take some time to customise your cover letter for each job application and boost the chances of success of your job application.

cover letter checklist

Now you know how to write a cover letter, what are you waiting for? Write it! Once you have written your first cover letter, read through it thoroughly and use the below checklist to ensure you have included all the essential information required in your cover letter:

your name and contact details
the job title you are applying for
a brief summary of your skills and experience and how they match the job description
a summary of why you are right for the job
outline what you know about the company, and why you think you would fit in if you were to become the successful applicant
a call to action asking the hiring manager to read your resume and contact you to arrange an interview

common mistakes made when writing a cover letter

Here is a list of things that you should take into consideration and try to avoid when writing your cover letter:

Check your cover letter for any typos and factual errors.
Always use a spell checker before you send your cover letter. If in doubt, get someone you trust to read over the letter and proof it for you.
Don’t cut and paste sections of text from your resume into your cover letter. This does not add value to your job application, rather it distracts with its repetition and misses the opportunity to add context and colour to your skills and experience.
Your cover letter is a way to show your personality, where your resume tends to be more factual, so make sure your tone and wording in your cover letter conveys to the reader who you are as a person, not just a recitation of your skills and experience.
Don't make it a 60 page essay! The ideal length of a cover letter is between half and three quarters of an A4 page. Remember that a potential employer reading it does not have all day to scroll through a lengthy letter, so keep it succinct and to the point. You can always direct them to view your resume or LinkedIn profile for further information.
Don’t mention other jobs you may have applied for. Most jobseekers apply for several jobs at a time, however it is important not to mention this in your cover letter. You are trying to convince an employer to hire you, so why would they invest the time into your application if they know you are looking at other roles as well?

Now you have a better idea on how to write a winning cover letter for a job application. You can read our articles to find more cover letter examples and tips !

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Cover Letter Builder

Free Cover Letter Templates

Stand out and get hired faster with our collection of free professional cover letter templates expertly-designed to land you the perfect position.

Professional cover letter template Toronto

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General cover letter templates.

A general cover letter template can help you stand out from the crowd and get you noticed faster. All of our cover letter samples, including our general cover letter template provided below, can be adjusted to suit a wide range of jobs and industries. No matter what type of job you’re applying for, we’ve got something for everyone.

Be sure to enhance your cover letter template by incorporating specific examples from your professional and educational background. Remember, each cover letter represents an opportunity to showcase to the employer why you are the perfect fit for the role, so make the most of it!

Get noticed and hired faster by using this Sales Assistant cover letter example. This cover letter has been especially designed for Sales Assistant roles in 2024. We make it easy to make effortlessly stunning cover letters quicky and efficiently.

What makes our cover letter templates stand out?

At cvapp.nz, we understand the transformative impact a good job can have on your life. That's why we've created compelling cover letter templates designed to captivate and leave a lasting impression on employers.

Here's just a few reasons why our cover letter templates can help elevate your professional potential:

Expert Approved Designs: Our team of skilled graphic designers are constantly developing and updating our cover letter templates to ensure they align with industry expectations. With a variety of template styles ranging from simple and modern to professional and creative , we’re proud to offer ideal cover letter templates for every individual.
HR-Endorsed Templates: We collaborate with experienced HR and recruitment professionals to ensure our cover letter templates align with the criteria set by today's employers. By staying informed on the latest recruitment practices, our templates can keep you one step ahead of the competition.
Easy Customisation: In addition to our professionally designed free cover letter templates, we provide a user-friendly cover letter builder to help job-seekers tailor their application letters with ease. With convenient features and helpful advice, our cover letter builder simplifies the process of crafting an exceptional cover letter.
AI-Powered Technology: Even the most skilled writers need some support now and then; that's why we've integrated AI-generated content into our cover letter builder. Our AI tools allow for easy customisation, and with an advanced spelling and grammar checker, our builder can help identify and improve any potentially costly mistakes in your cover letter.

Most jobs will specify whether they require your cover letter in PDF or Word Docx format. In our online cover letter builder, We make it easy to edit your cover letter and download your template in either format. Check it out for yourself!

How to choose the right cover letter template:

Since each applicant and job role is unique, a standardised cover letter can hinder your chances of being noticed by employers. That's why we've created an extensive range of cover letter templates to help you create a job-winning cover letter. Say bye-bye to boring templates!

Our cover letter builder allows for effortless transitions between templates. That's right: You can quickly customise your cover letter and tailor it to your own individual preferences with ease. Our collection of free cover letter templates is divided into four distinct categories:

Creative: For industries or job titles that demand a dynamic presentation, check out our creative cover letter templates . With vivid colour palettes, fun fonts and dazzling designs, a creative cover letter can help you stand out from the crowd. We recommend using a creative cover letter if you're applying for roles in industries such as film, television, design , photography, art, architecture and content creation.
Modern: For applicants applying to industries that thrive on fresh thinking and progressive ideas, our modern cover letter templates may be the best option for you. Our modern cover letter layouts show off sleek lines, crisp fonts, and a balanced blend of both white space and text blocks. These templates are best for professionals in the IT, marketing , administration , and sales industries.
Professional: There are times when it's important to stick to more conventional template designs, and that's where our professional templates shine. These templates offer classic designs with traditional fonts and well-organised sections. Opting for a professional cover letter template is best for applicants applying to industries such as business, healthcare, education , engineering , accounting , and finance.
Simple : Last but not least, our simple cover letters are a timeless and traditional option for a diverse range of job positions and candidates. Ideal for students, individuals new to the workforce, and those in industries like hospitality, transportation, logistics, and retail , these simple templates are incredibly versatile and provide an excellent starting point for crafting any cover letter.

How do I create a great cover letter?

A great cover letter requires highlighting why you’re the ideal candidate for the role by outlining your professional expertise and strengths. To do this, you’ll need the following sections:

A well-designed header: To stand out from the crowd, you'll need an attractive header to display your name and contact information. Your header is usually positioned at the top or along the side of the page. Here, you'll want to include essential contact information such as a phone number, email address, and any links to relevant professional websites.

An attractive and appropriate colour scheme: While it may not be appropriate for all industries, incorporating a pop of colour or fresh formatting can enhance the visual appeal of your cover letter. At cvapp.nz, we offer a range of alluring cover letter designs and attractive colour schemes that can help bring your cover letter to life.

A suitable font choice : Effective cover letters employ font styles and sizes that are well-structured and appropriate for the industry or job role you're applying for. We simplify the cover letter creation process in our online builder by automatically choosing the correct font and size for your cover letter template.

Balanced white space to text ratio: A great cover letter should have a balanced ratio of text to white space to prevent visual strain on the reader. Fortunately, all of our cover letter templates are formatted by industry experts. Check it out for yourself!

Diverse roles may call for different cover letter formats , which is why we've simplified the process of adjusting colours, line spacing, or entire templates in our cover letter builder.

Cover Letter Structure:

Before you get started, it’s important to know how a cover letter is structured. You’ll need to include the following sections:

A tailored greeting: The way potential employers are addressed at the start of the cover letter. For example, “ Dear Mr. Rapana ,” or “ Tēnā koe, Mrs. Roberts.”
An interesting introduction: The initial opening sentences after your greeting introduce who you are and the position you’re applying for.
Captivating body paragraphs: The main paragraphs of your cover letter where you elaborate upon your professional experience, skills, and why you’re the best candidate for the job. Don’t forget to use strong examples, facts and figures where possible.
An appropriate conclusion and sign-off: The final sentences include a strong call-to-action statement motivating employers to reach out at a later stage, as well as an appropriate farewell statement. For example, “Ngā mihi, Melanie Harawera,” or “Yours sincerely, Jack Williams.”

Cover Letter FAQs:

How should i format my cover letter .

An effective cover letter format grabs the interest of employers with an appealing design layout and an appropriate font. Additionally, your cover letter should also provide clear and concise details about your professional background, skills and qualifications. There are a range of different formats you can use, but the best format for you largely depends on your professional background.

How long should my cover letter be?

A well-crafted cover letter should fall within the range of 250-350 words . This is usually around three paragraphs long. If your cover letter is too short, you run the risk of employers questioning whether you're experienced enough or suitable for the job role. If your cover letter is too long, you may lose the reader's interest. Keeping it within this range will safeguard you from these risks.

Is there anything I should always include in a cover letter?

It's essential to always include the name of the company you're applying to and the job position you're interested in for each cover letter you draft. As potential employers may be evaluating candidates for multiple positions concurrently, specifying this information can quickly help employers determine if your cover letter should be considered and taken seriously.

Include an attractive and industry-appropriate header
Use data and specific examples to help support your claims
Keep your white space-to-text ratio balanced
Adjust the margins to fit more text in or to make your cover letter appear longer
Include unnecessary details
Incorporate overly flashy colours or design elements

Do I have to include a cover letter?

While not every hiring manager reviews cover letters, those who do often use them to determine the shortlist for interviews.

Imagine losing out on your dream job just because you didn't have a cover letter! For this reason, we recommend submitting a cover letter for each new job opportunity. Fortunately, all of our cover letter templates come with

How do I end a cover letter?

We recommend incorporating a call-to-action statement at the conclusion of your cover letter. For example: "If possible, I'd love to meet with you at your earliest convenience." This concluding statement showcases your enthusiasm for the role and subtly suggests that the hiring manager reach out to you for an interview.

The final lines of your cover letter should end with an appropriate farewell, such as “Yours sincerely,” or “Ngā mihi, ” followed by your full name.

How do I address a cover letter if I don’t know the name of the recipient?

While addressing the hiring manager by name in your cover letter is best to help forge a personal connection with the recipient, some companies may not disclose the identity of the individual reviewing your application.

In these situations, a more general greeting such as "Dear (Company Name) Hiring Team" or "Dear (Department Name) Team Lead" is best.

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COMMENTS

CV & Cover Letter
Creating your CV. There is no-one-way to write a CV, but you should always try and incorporate these points. 2 pages maximum. Presentation counts. Your CV should have a clear layout and be easy to navigate. Make sure there are no spelling mistakes, and that punctuation and grammar are used correctly. Explain any gaps in your CV.
CV and cover letter templates
Save and name your templated CV and cover letter. When you download the templates, remember to save them on your computer as a Word document and a PDF. Employers may need either format. Name your documents with your name, the application date, and the job you're applying for. For instance, "Mere Smith 1 Oct 2023 Water Engineer CV".
Lawyer Free Cover Letter Examples & Expert Tips From Industry
Lawyer Cover Letter Example. Get noticed and hired faster by using this Lawyer cover letter example. This cover letter has been especially designed for Lawyer roles in 2024. We make it easy to make effortlessly stunning cover letters quicky and efficiently. 4.6. Average rating. 77 people've already rated it. Edit This Cover Letter.
How to Write a Cover Letter for Law Firms (with Examples)
Cover letter examples for summer associates and interns, Columbia Law School.; Cover letter examples for 1L - 3L students, Harvard Law School.; Cover letter examples for 1L - 3L students, Yale Law School.; Cover letter example for applying to an immigration law firm by a recent graduate with previous paralegal experience.; Cover letter example for big law cover letter, Boston University.
How to write a cover letter
To make your cover letter look good: use a black, easy to read font in one size. use simple language and be warm and friendly. use positive phrases like 'I have' and 'I can'. use bullet points to list information. avoid weak words like 'some knowledge' or 'fairly experienced'. avoid starting each sentence with 'I'. avoid repeating your whole CV.
How to write an NZ cover letter (with examples and templates)
1. Your contact info, the date and the business' address. At the top of your cover letter should be: Your full name, contact details and home address. The date you submit the application. The business' postal address. It should look like this: Head up your cover letter like this. 2.
How to write a great cover letter
Quick tips for improving your cover letter. Use clear, concise language. It's best to avoid complicated or flowery wording. Avoid overly long sentences. Try reading it aloud to see if there are any you struggle with. Always tailor your cover letter to the job. An application is all about showing how you're a good fit for the role on offer ...
How to Write a Cover Letter for the New Zealand Market in 2024
5. Being too lengthy: Keep your cover letter concise, emphasising key points without overwhelming the reader—employers often have limited time and prefer succinct, well-organised cover letters. Sealing success: Wrapping up your guide. Crafting a compelling cover letter is essential for making a lasting impression in the job market.
How to Write a Cover Letter: Template & Tips
Simply sign off with: "I have attached my resume and look forward to speaking to you further about this opportunity.". Or "I look forward to hearing from you to discuss this role further." Finally, as you'll see in our cover letter template, you can close with the widely accepted "kind regards" or "sincerely".
Write a cover letter
Contact us. Call us for more support and information. We're here from 8:30am to 5pm Monday to Friday - except Wednesdays when we're here from 9.30am to 5pm. We're closed on all public holidays, including Wellington Anniversary. Use our interactive guides and templates to write a cover letter tailored to the job you want.
CVs and cover letters
CVs and cover letters. Take the hard work out of writing your CV and cover letter. Get advice about what to write, support to show you what to do, and free templates you can use. When you apply for a job, employers will look at your: CV, to see your skills, any qualifications, and your work history. cover letter, to find out what kind of person ...
How to write a cover letter: (NZ) tips & examples · CVapp.nz
To start writing your cover letter, you'll need three key components: the header, greeting, and introduction, each of which plays a unique role. In this guide, we'll explore how to write a cover letter that both engages and impresses employers. If you're feeling daunted by a blank page, don't worry: you're not alone!
How to write a cover letter
Explain how your work experience to date would make you an ideal candidate for the role, picking out key elements of your CV rather than simply summarising it. Finally, ensure that your contact details are clearly indicated and keep the letter to a single page. For further advice about writing a cover letter and the job application process ...
How to write a cover letter
When it comes to writing a cover letter for resumes, remember the three C's: Connect, Convince and Courtesy. The purpose of the resume cover letter is to first Connect with your hiring manager. Then you should aim to Convince the hiring manager that your CV is worth reading. Whilst including a cover letter may seem old-fashioned, such ...
Cover letter template and examples
Cover letter templates. Robert Half's cover letter examples and templates are designed to support you in finding and securing the perfect job. Whether your job application is submitted by mail or electronically, your cover letter is the first document that most employers read, and acts as a sort of appetiser to your resume.
Legal Cover Letter Examples & Expert Tips · Resume.io
The legal cover letter example below gives an overview of how to create your own application: Copyable example for a legal cover letter. Dear Ms. Cleary, I am writing to convey my sincere interest in being considered for the Legal Assistant position currently seeking candidates at Hutchins & Hutchins.
We've got cover letters covered
Some fine cover letter examples. Here are some examples of some great cover letters examples written by some successful job applicants before you. Have a read, and get some inspiration. Project Manager. Why it was a winner... Covers the requirements indicated in the ad. Solid précis of work experience, - easy for a consultant to refer to.
PDF How to write a cover letter
Step 3: Write your cover letter ACTION: Open the cover letter template in the job hunters' toolkit. Now you should have everything you need to write a great cover letter. The template and example will take you through this process. Before you start, take a minute to think about the goals of your cover letter.
30+ Perfect Cover Letter Examples & Samples (NZ): Filter by Job
Expertly-designed, free professional templates. Select Template. 4.5 out of 5. 30+ Great Cover Letter Examples 2024 Free, expert-approved Cover letter Samples and guides Create professional cover letters in minutes.
Free cover letter template
Download our free cover letter template. Think of your cover letter as a pitch - a way to introduce yourself professionally and show the value you could bring to the role you're applying for. Your resumé is there to document your skills, experience, and achievements, but your cover letter sums these things up in a way that speaks to the ...
How to Write a Cover Letter
Justified alignment looks neater and more professional. If you are using MS Word to write your cover letter, select the text and press "CTRL + J". Leave two line spaces between the date and the body of the letter. Leave one line space between paragraphs and do not indent for a more modern look.
How To Write A Cover Letter
step 4: include a call to action. Your cover letter must finish on a strong call to action, encouraging the potential employer to look through your resume and to contact you to arrange an interview date/time. Here's an example of what and how to include a strong call to action at the end of a cover letter: "Please see attached my resume.
Free Cover Letter Templates (NZ)
A well-crafted cover letter should fall within the range of 250-350 words. This is usually around three paragraphs long. If your cover letter is too short, you run the risk of employers questioning whether you're experienced enough or suitable for the job role. If your cover letter is too long, you may lose the reader's interest.
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Be strict with the length

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Legal cover letter example

The aim of the cover letter greeting: Set a professional and formal tone, while addressing your letter to the correct person.

Best format for a legal cover letter

Cover letter header

Cover letter greeting

Cover letter introduction

Cover letter middle part (body)