need some help (job related)

[tabbycat31]

Ok I haven't worked since June. I'm a displaced banker who decided to go back to school instead of working in banking (since I saw where the industry was heading, adn I was right). I'm a paralegal student, and will be done with school by Christmas.

I was browsing Craigslist and saw the perfect job opportunity on there. It's a PT legal secretary job only about a mile away (yay for walking/riding my bike to work), and the hours are perfect to fit in with my school schedule except for one day (however school ends May 6) so coming in late on Wednesdays would only be very temporary.

My problem is that I absolutely suck at writing cover letters, and I need to tweak my resume big time since most of my experience is in teh financial and retail industries. I have no law firm experience, but do you think that a firm would give consideration to a paralegal student? I could easily get refrences from my teachers (all practicing lawyers in the county).

Anyone here good at writing cover letters and want to take a stab at it? If I get the job (aka income) I will donate to DU or your favorite charity on your behalf.

[skygazer]

1. Googling will find you some good examples of cover letters

If you're planning on being a paralegal or a legal secretary, writing skills are pretty important. I do think a law office may be willing to give consideration to a paralegal student. Use your resume and your cover letter to highlight the aspects of your experience that will help you in the legal field - customer service skills, organizational skills, etc.

[elleng]

2. Write a perfect, simple, clear letter

showing you know what one looks like; format is very important. I know; I did legal secretary with NO experience but h.s. typing, and then lawyer.

Check back, if you'd like.

Good luck.

[mykpart]

3. "Finding the right person for the job can be as difficult as

finding the right job. Your want someone who is , , and blah for the position of . The attached resume indicates just such a person. (or, a person with those qualities.) Won't you give me a call at xxx xxx xxxx and let me know when we can meet and discuss the job. I look forward to hearing from you."

OK, I'm an old fart and have been retired for 10 years, but I remember that when you write your cover letter you should put yourself in your potential employer's place. I think it's called a "you" attitude. You primary goal is to get the interview.