Cover letter for post-clerkship hiring Forum

[Anonymous User]

I know that this has been debated time and time again for clerkship applications, but I was wondering what the general consensus is in terms of substance for post-clerkship cover letters. Would you recommend something very short and sweet (i.e. "I am writing for x job following x clerkship. Please find attached my application materials. Thank you for your consideration.") or something more substantial (i.e. why you want the job, want to work in that city/state, or what sets you apart)?

[Jchance]

The latter. Why is this even a question?

[clerk1251]

My opinion would be the former. Clearly there is debate though, so I'd say to do whatever you are most comfortable with.

The latter might give you a more competitive advantage, seeing as you are taking the time to custom tailor your cover letter more. I'm all about it being short, sweet, and to the point though. To each their own.

[lolwat]

I would say it depends. If you're talking about some biglaw NYC firm, short and sweet is probably better. If you're trying to get to somewhere you have no ties (let's say, you've been on the east coast all your life and you're trying to get to CA) or some secondary market, tailoring your cover letter would be better than not. If you're applying to smaller firms where you know your application materials are being seen by a hiring/managing partner in the first instance and not some random HR person, then it makes even more sense to tailor your cover letter.

I don't see it as substantively different than applying for clerkships.

[rpupkin]

The latter. Why is this even a question?

Because long cover letters often come off as awkward and desperate. They're difficult to do well. Short and sweet is safer.