A good legal resume accomplishes three major tasks:

• Presents your background and experience to emphasize how well you meet the requirements of the position.
• Does so concisely and in an easy to read, proper legal format.
• Conveys a sense of you are as an individual and as a potential employee.
  

A strong cover letter successfully accomplishes the following in one page:

• Tells the employer who you are and what you are seeking.
• Focuses on the needs of the employer.
• Persuades the employer that you have the skills and accomplishments that will meet the employer’s needs and will “fit” well in the organization.
• Shows that you are enthusiastic about working for that particular employer.
• Demonstrates excellent writing skills.
• Provides opportunity to follow-up in appropriate ways.
• Provides opportunity to follow-up in appropriate ways.

Cover letters accompanying a resume or application:

• Are tailored to a specific opening.
• Are addressed to a specific person.
• Are centered from top to bottom of the page.
• Do not completely reiterate your resume.
• Are always signed.

A thank you letter/note after a job interview:

• Thanks the employer for the opportunity to discuss the job in person.
• Emphasizes continuing interest and enthusiasm for the position.
• Provides an opportunity to reiterate or add something you forgot to mention in the interview about your unique skills and qualifications for the job.
• Reminds the employer of your willingness to meet again and anticipation of a future phone call.
• Addresses information or perspectives gained from a particular interviewer.

Howcast: How to write a cover letter

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u0suKZ-oU8s