Including an email cover letter is imperative, so we thought it would be helpful for our job-seeking readers to have sample letters to use as a starting point.
The following examples come from emails from real-life job seekers, although we have modified the details and contact information. Whether you prefer a “sales” approach or are more of a “straight and to the point” type of person, choose the template that suits your style. just be sure to include these key elements in your email cover letter.
Etiquette for any email cover letter
Do:
- Mention the title of the position you are applying for in the subject line and in the body of your email.
- Explain where you found the job opening or how you heard about the position.
- conclude with a subtle call-to-action to remind the hiring manager of the action you’d like them to take, such as “I look forward to hearing from you.”
- list your full name and contact information contact in your email signature block (not just your resume attachment).
- If applicable, quickly explain any questions your resume may raise. for example, if you’re out of town but planning to move closer to where you work, or if you’ve only been in your current position for a short time.
not:
- Do not start your cover letter with your name. instead, introduce yourself in the letter with a relevant qualification and connect it to the position.
- Keep your cover letter concise. Just like your resume, keep your document on a single page to attract hiring managers instead of overwhelming them.
- Avoid spelling or grammatical errors in your document. the smallest typo can ruin your chances of getting the job.
- don’t go to the wrong company name or the wrong company contact name. this could look like horrible cover letter etiquette and indicate a lack of attention to detail.
- Never include your salary requirements unless the prospective employer tells you otherwise.
Signature in the email cover letter
Without a signature at the bottom of your email cover letter, you could be missing out on amazing potential job opportunities. This quick snippet of your contact information makes it easy for recruiters and hiring managers to get in touch with you.
When it comes to deciding between a physical signature and a name signature, both options offer advantages. With a name signature, you can use a digital signature service like eversign and rightsignature to give your cover letter that personal touch.
If you prefer to include just a regular email signature, be sure to include your full name, email, and phone number. You may also consider adding a linkedin button so the hiring manager can learn more about your experience and skill set.
How to format an email cover letter
Wondering how to format your email cover letter? you’re not alone. Once you’ve written your amazing cover letter that provides more information about your experience and how it relates to the job you’re applying for, it’s vital to format it correctly before sending it to any recruiter. if it’s not formatted correctly, you could be missing out on a job opportunity.
Regardless of which cover letter template you’ve chosen, be sure to include these key components when formatting your email cover letter:
- Write a subject line that includes the position you are applying for
- Address the name of the company contact in the salutation
- Clearly state what you hope to accomplish in the first few sentences
- summarize your strengths, skills, and experience by connecting them to the job opportunity
- use a font that is easy to read
- avoid typos correct your message
- include a signature with your contact information
- always send a .pdf file instead of a word document or other format
Email cover letter examples for legal professionals
example #1: if you prefer to keep it short.
Subject: Interest in Litigation Associate Position
to whom it may concern:
I’m interested in the Litigation Associate position advertised on linkedin. I have attached my resume and cover letter for your review.
Thank you for your time. I look forward to hearing from you.
Best regards,
first surname
phone
Example #2: If you move to the city where the job opportunity is located.
subject: expressing interest and relocating near litigation clerk position
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to express my interest in the litigation clerk position listed on monster.com. my resume is attached for your review and consideration.
I am a fast learner, very reliable, organized and computer literate. I have extensive experience assisting firm attorneys and multiple paralegals, as well as supervising and managing an office. Although I currently reside in Los Angeles, I will be moving to San Francisco at the end of the month.
I look forward to meeting with you to learn more about your company, your plans and goals, and how I can contribute to your continued success. I can be your ideal candidate if given this opportunity. thanks.
A cordial greeting,
first surname
phone
Example #3: If a colleague recommended you.
subject line: john mentioned that his company is looking for a litigation clerk
dear sir/madam:
I was recommended by a mutual acquaintance, john smith, who said he has an opening for a litigation clerk.
I have many years of experience as a litigation secretary, most of it working with managing partners. I am a professional looking for a career, not just a job. I am organized, reliable and motivated. I like to be part of a team, but I can also work independently.
A copy of my resume is included with this email for your review and consideration. Once you’ve had a chance to review my resume, please contact me with any questions or to set up an interview. I look forward to speaking with you in the near future.
thank you for your time,
first surname
phone
Example #4: If you have been in your current position for less than a year.
subject: Experienced legal secretary seeking a long-term opportunity with a stable litigation firm
dear sir/madam:
please allow this introduction. my name is jane smith, and i have 12 years of experience as a legal secretary working with managing partners of small, medium and large law firms. my current typing speed is 105 wpm written form and 120 wpm live dictation with maximum accuracy. I am interested in the litigation clerk position advertised on your company website.
I currently work for a small civil litigation firm. however, after only 11 months in this role, the company’s financial stability has changed significantly. therefore, I am looking for a long-term tenure with a stable civil litigation firm.
Attached please find my resume and list of references. If you are interested in the professional skills and positive attributes I can bring to your company, please contact me at
at your convenience to schedule an interview.thank you for your time and consideration.
respectfully,
first surname
phone
Example #5: You want to dazzle the hiring manager with your qualifications.
subject line: do you need a conscientious legal assistant in your company?
Dear Recruiting Manager:
Do you need a hard-working, creative and conscientious legal assistant to meet the needs of your company? if so, i can help you. the following is a summary of my qualifications:
- over ten years of progressively responsible legal experience;
- bachelor’s degree with honors in business administration;
- exceptional verbal, written and analytical skills;
- advanced computer skills;
- outgoing personality and positive attitude.
I’d like to meet with you to discuss how I could help your business meet your current needs.
My resume is attached for your review. If you need someone who is highly motivated, eager to learn, and willing to work hard to succeed, please contact me at
or email: [email].thank you for your time and consideration,
first surname
phone
Now, start writing your cover letter!
They say the first impression is a lasting one, so make sure your digital presentation represents you well. use your best judgment with each position you apply for; For an entry-level position, keep your cover letter more concise while going deeper and providing more information with higher-level positions.
These examples are meant to be just a starting point – add your own voice, style, and experience to make your own standout (or at least strong) email cover letter.
Start creating cover letters that will help you stand out and get the job!