how to write a training contract cover letter

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Training Contract Covering Letter

Finding a training contract is hard enough without a bad covering letter letting you down. You might think your CV is the star of the show, but without a good supporting act, your application will flop.

Even in these days of fancy online applications, many firms will still ask for a covering letter to accompany your application. You’ll also definitely need a covering letter if you’re planning on applying to high street and medium-sized firms.

Covering letters do much more than just ‘cover’ your CV…

A good covering letter will give a voice to the person behind your CV. It’s your chance to highlight the impressive parts of your CV, smoothly convince the employer that you’d be a fantastic trainee, and tell them what it is that makes you jig with excitement at the thought of working for their firm.

Seeing as drafting letters will be part of your responsibility as a trainee, a poorly constructed, ineffectual covering letter, riddled with mistakes, won’t exactly set a good example.

Before you put pen to paper…

Think of yourself as a Savile Row tailor, every training contract covering letter should be custom-made for the law firm. Put your excellent research skills into practice and find out as much as you can about the firm.

What areas of law do they specialise in? What is their company culture? What kind of skills are they looking for in trainee solicitors? Visit them at law fairs and scrutinise their website. You should know exactly who they are and what they do.

Next, think about the kind of skills you will need as a trainee solicitor and make a list of your own personal strengths.

Take a look at your CV and pick out the skills and experience you want to highlight in your training contract covering letter.

Constructing your training contract covering letter…

Research over; let’s have a crack at writing that covering letter. In its very basic form, it should answer these five questions:

1. Who are you?

2. Why are you writing to me?

3. Why do you want this role?

4. Why do you want to work for this firm in particular?

5. Why should we offer you a training contract?

As well as these questions, there are two words you need to keep in mind: relevance and brevity.

Keep the covering letter short, concise, and to the point. Here’s a suggestion for the general structure of your training contract covering letter, but it’s by no means gospel:

Structuring your covering letter…

Use a formal business letter template: your address and the name and address of recipient should be at the top of the letter. If you are emailing them, put the covering letter in the body of the email and omit the addresses.

Try to find out the name of the person who will be reading your covering letter. That way you can address it to them. It might be a small thing, but it does make a difference.

Paragraph One

Here you can answer the first two questions: “Who are you?” and “Why are you writing to me?” You might want to tell them the position you are applying for (e.g. trainee solicitor), how you found out about it and, if the firm advertises more than one training contract, the year you’ll be able to start.

For example, you could say something like: “Further to your advertisement on AllAboutCareers.com, I would like to apply to your trainee solicitor position starting in 2014.”

Paragraph Two

Next, you might want to show them why you are interested in the type of work they do at the law firm. Give examples to back up your claims, such as relevant work experience, extracurricular activities or modules you’ve chosen to take at university.

Most important of all, tell the firm why you’re interested in them specifically. What is it about the firm that made you want to apply to them? And no, “the sizeable salary” and “sheer desperation” aren’t the right answers.

Paragraph Three

Here you might want to summarise the strengths and skills you have which you feel would make you an ideal trainee solicitor. Back each assertion with an example, whether that’s from previous work experience, extra-curricular activities or something else.

For instance, you might want to use your vacation work as an example to demonstrate your interpersonal skills or your commercial awareness.

Say when you’re available for interview and cover any practical issues they ask about (e.g. what your salary expectations are). Be positive: “I’m looking forward to your reply.”

You should end the letter “Yours sincerely” if it’s being sent to a named person; if you haven’t managed to find out a name then use “Yours faithfully”, followed by your name (obviously!).

Final points…

– Think about the tone of your letter. It needs to be professional and formal, but, at the same time, you need to convey your own personal voice. You might want to use different ways to structure and formulate your sentences to really show off your writing style.

– If you’re emailing your covering letter or they’re likely to read it onscreen, then use a font designed to be read on a screen, such as Verdana or Helvetica. You should also use shorter paragraphs in emails as well.

– Go back over it with a harsh editing eye. Strike out anything superfluous. Can you make your sentences shorter? Can you get that point across in fewer words?

– Scrutinise your cover letter for mistakes. Double check it. Triple check it. Get your parents, your granny, the postman and your friends to proofread it. Spelling and grammar mistakes aren’t cool. End of.

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COMPARATIVE

How to write a Training Contract cover letter

What to include in a Training Contract cover letter

CV templates

Training Contract cover letter example 1

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Training Contract cover letter example 2

Training Contract cover letter example 3

These Training Contract cover letter examples provide you with some guidance and inspiration for writing a cover letter that gets noticed and ensures your CV will get opened.

But if you really want to master the art of writing a winning cover letter , then follow our step-by-step cove letter writing guide below.

Here’s how you can write your own eye-catching cover letter, broken down into simple steps.

Write your cover letter in the body of an email/message

When you send a cover letter with a job application, you should always write your message into the body of your email – or the body of the messaging system if you are sending via a job website.

Why do this?

Simply because you want to get your message seen as soon as the recruiter opens your application.

If you attach the cover letter as a separate item, this means the recipient will have to open it before they can read it – slowing down the process and potentially causing frustration along the way.

So, write your cover note in the body of your email/message to ensure you make an instant connection with the reader.

Start with a friendly greeting

To kick your cover letter off, start with a friendly greeting to build rapport with the recruiter instantly.

Your greeting should be personable but professional. Not too casual, but not too formal either

Go with something like…

Hi [insert recruiter name]
Hi [insert department/team name]

Avoid old-fashioned greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very formal companies.

How to find the contact’s name?

Addressing the recruitment contact by name is an excellent way to start building a strong relationship. If it is not listed in the job advert, try these methods to find it.

Check out the company website and look at their About page. If you see a hiring manager, HR person or internal recruiter, use their name. You could also try to figure out who would be your manager in the role and use their name.
Head to LinkedIn , search for the company and scan through the list of employees. Most professionals are on LinkedIn these days, so this is a good bet.

Identify the role you are applying for

Once you’ve opened up the cover letter with a warm greeting to start building a relationship, it is time to identify which role you want to apply for.

Recruiters are often managing multiple vacancies, so you need to ensure you apply to the correct one.

Be very specific and use a reference number if you can find one.

I am interested in applying for the position of Training Contract with your company.
I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 406f57393)
I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
I saw your advert for a junior project manager on Reed and would like to apply for the role.

See also: CV examples – how to write a CV – CV profiles

Highlight your suitability

The main purpose of your cover letter is to excite recruiters and make them eager to open your CV. And you achieve this by quickly demonstrating your suitability to the job you are applying for.

Take a look at the job adverts you are applying for, and make note of the most important skills being asked for.

Then, when you write your cover letter, make your suitability the focal point.

Explain how you meet the candidate requirements fully, and why you are so well suited to carry out the job.

This will give recruiters all the encouragement they need to open your CV and consider your application.

Keep it short and sharp

It is best to keep your cover letter brief if you want to ensure you hold the attention of busy recruiters and hiring managers. A lengthy cover letter will probably not get read in full, so keep yours to around 3-6 sentences and save the real detail for your CV.

Remember the purpose of your cover letter is to quickly get recruiters to notice you and encourage them to open your CV, so it only needs to include the highlights of your experience.

Sign off professionally

To finish off your cover note, add a professional signature to the bottom, stating your important contact details and information.

This not only provides recruiters with multiple means of contacting you, but it also adds a nice professional appearance to the cover letter, which shows that you know how to conduct yourself in the workplace.

Include the following points;

A friendly sign off – e.g. “Warm regards”
Your full name
Phone number (one you can answer quickly)
Email address
Profession title
Professional social network – e.g. LinkedIn

Here is an example signature;

Warm regards,

Aaron Smith Customer service professional 075557437373 [email protected] LinkedIn

Quick tip : To save yourself from having to write your signature every time you send a job application, you can save it within your email drafts, or on a separate document that you could copy in.

What to include in your Training Contract cover letter

So, what type of information should you write about in your Training Contract cover letter?

The specifics will obviously depend on your profession and the jobs you are applying to, but these are the key areas you should be covering.

Your industry experience – Tell recruiters the types of companies you have been working for and the roles you have held in the past.
Your qualifications – Highlight your most important relevant qualifications to show employers you are qualified to do the roles you are applying for.
The impact you have made – Demonstrate the positive impact you have made for employers in previous jobs. Have you saved money? Improved processes? Made customers happy?
Your reasons for moving – Employers will want to know why you are leaving your current/previous role, so provide them with a brief explanation here.
Your availability – When will you be able to start a new job ? Check your current contract to find out your notice period if you are in a position already.

To round up

Writing an impressive cover letter is a crucial step in landing a Training Contract, so taking the time to perfect it is well worth while.

By following the tips and examples above you will be able to create an eye-catching cover letter that will wow recruiters and ensure your CV gets read – leading to more job interviews for you.

Good luck with your job search!

Letter Templates

successful training contract cover letter example

Writing a successful training contract cover letter can be a daunting task, but it is also an essential step in securing a training contract. A well-crafted cover letter can set you apart from other candidates and convince the employer that you are the right person for the job. In this article, we will provide you with seven examples of successful training contract cover letters and some tips on how to write your own. You can use these examples as a starting point and edit them as needed.

Example 1: Applying for a Training Contract in a Law Firm

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the training contract position at XYZ Law Firm. As a recent law graduate with a strong academic record, I am eager to begin my legal career at a reputable firm like XYZ.

During my time at law school, I was involved in several legal clinics and internships, where I gained practical experience in various areas of law. I am particularly interested in XYZ’s focus on corporate and commercial law, and I am confident that I have the necessary skills and knowledge to contribute to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.

Tips for Writing a Successful Training Contract Cover Letter

Here are some tips for writing a successful training contract cover letter:

1. Do your research

Before you start writing your cover letter, research the company and the position you are applying for. This will help you tailor your letter to the employer’s needs and demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm.

2. Highlight your strengths

Your cover letter should highlight your strengths and achievements, as well as your passion for the industry. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and experience.

3. Keep it concise

A cover letter should be no longer than one page. Keep it concise, clear, and to the point.

4. Tailor your letter to the employer’s needs

Make sure your cover letter is tailored to the specific employer and position you are applying for. Use the job description and company website to identify the key skills and qualities the employer is looking for.

5. Proofread and edit

Before submitting your cover letter, make sure you proofread and edit it carefully. Check for spelling and grammar errors, and make sure your letter is well-structured and easy to read.

6. Follow up

If you haven’t heard back from the employer after a few weeks, follow up with a polite email or phone call to express your continued interest in the position.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: can i use a template for my cover letter.

A: While templates can be a useful starting point, it’s important to customize your cover letter to the specific employer and position you are applying for. Avoid using generic templates that don’t demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm for the company and the industry.

Q: Should I include my GPA in my cover letter?

A: Only include your GPA if it is high (e.g., above 3.5) and relevant to the position you are applying for. Otherwise, focus on highlighting your skills and experience.

Q: What should I do if I don’t have any relevant experience?

A: If you don’t have any relevant experience, focus on your academic achievements and transferable skills. Use examples from your coursework or extracurricular activities to demonstrate your abilities.

Q: How should I address my cover letter?

A: Address your cover letter to the specific person who will be reading it. If you are unsure of the person’s name or gender, use a generic greeting like “Dear Hiring Manager” or “To Whom It May Concern.”

Q: Should I include my salary expectations in my cover letter?

A: No, it’s not necessary to include your salary expectations in your cover letter. This can be discussed during the interview process.

Q: How long should my cover letter be?

A: Your cover letter should be no longer than one page. Keep it concise and to the point.

Writing a successful training contract cover letter requires time, effort, and attention to detail. Use the tips and examples provided in this article to create a strong cover letter that showcases your skills and experience, and demonstrates your passion for the industry. Good luck!

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Top 5 Training Cover Letter Templates with Samples and Examples

Sapna Singh

Amazon, the global behemoth of e-commerce and supply chain, has recently announced its plan to invest $700 million in training and development for 100,000 of its employees in higher-skilled roles by 2025. This move is a clear indication of how seriously Amazon takes the importance of training in shaping the future of its organization. The findings of surveys conducted by industry leaders like LinkedIn have also identified training and development as an essential policy that can persuade employees to stay with a company.

Training, therefore, is a game changer that can revolutionize the way business functions to thrive in the ever-evolving world of work.

A well-structured training framework helps allocate humans and resources for success. Click here to read more.

5 Best Training Cover Letter Templates

If you are a training professional looking to pitch your training services in this competitive scenario, we have got you covered. This blog is an excellent resource for trainers, consultant services, training and development specialists, HR professionals, and anyone who wants to help organizations build a skilled and dedicated workforce to drive business growth. It includes Training Cover Letter Templates that will enhance the value of your job-training proposal.

To keep your business techniques up to date and positively affect your personnel's abilities and potential, explore our templates for training outline .

The 100% customizable nature of the templates provides you with the flexibility to edit your presentations. The content-ready slides give you the much-needed structure.

Let’s begin

Template 1: Cover Letter for Newly Hired Executives Training Services PPT

Do you specialize in employee training workshops and field courses? Use this PPT Template to demonstrate the employee training modules you offer. This cover letter effectively conveys your competency in providing training that assist in developing team strategies, processes, interpersonal skills, and collaborative proficiency. Use this presentation to outline your specialized employee training program for your hiring partners. Get it now!

Cover letter for newly hired executives training services ppt powerpoint presentation file picture

Download this template

Template 2: Cover Letter for on-the-job Training Services Template

Use this PPT Template to highlight your training services for specialized learning and staffing assistance. This cover letter helps to showcase your best training practices to ensure your clients experience the highest satisfaction. It comprises a roadmap that enables employees to acquire skills for a specific function, boost their contribution to the business, and build their self-esteem. Showcase that hiring your trainers is a worthwhile investment for the company. Download now!

Cover letter for on the job training services ppt powerpoint portrait

Template 3: Cover Letter for Workshop Training Proposal PPT

Use this PPT Template to create a proposal for a training workshop. This cover letter emphasizes your expertise in the professional development business and the services you provide, such as analysis and assessment, training materials, workshop implementation and delivery, and workshop evaluation. Employ this slide to walk clients through developing workshop training proposals, which include sections for objectives, outcomes, and testimonials. Save it now!

Cover letter for workshop training proposal ppt powerpoint presentation show

Template 4: Cover Letter for Corporate Training Workshop PPT

Make your corporate training services proposal more valuable by using this PPT Template that highlights your company's specialized training solutions for organizations to boost performance, influence results, and increase revenue. This slide demonstrates a comprehensive approach to develop corporate culture with similar values and strategies. Download now!

Cover Letter For Corporate Training Workshop One Pager Sample Example Document

Template 5: Cover Letter for Employees Training Proposal PPT

This cover letter provides prospects with an understanding of numerous employee engagement programs designed by your agency to improve employee performance, productivity, and empowerment. It contains employee training proposal summary with insights on skill-specific training to help employees reach their maximum potential. Get it now!

Cover Letter For Employees Training Proposal One Pager Sample Example Document

Template 6: Cover Letter for Construction Workforce Health and Safety Training Services PPT

This PPT Template outlines your offerings for fostering a culture of health and safety. It is an excellent description of how your team will improve the overall quality of a company's current safety program. Get it now!

Cover letter for construction workforce health and safety training services ppt infographics

Training pays dividends.

Maintaining an organization's competitiveness requires extensive workforce training. It allows employees to hone their current abilities and learn new ones, enhancing individual and organizational performance. Use SlideTeam's PPT Templates to demonstrate a top-notch, thorough training program for employees to comprehend an organization's practices, policies, and objectives.

PS Explore our guide on best-in-class templates to exhibit cover letters that amaze, impress, and provide the most significant business results.

FAQs ON TRAINING COVER LETTER

What are the advantages of organizational training and development.

Offers opportunities for employee learning and workforce strength growth.
Aids businesses in identifying and correcting flaws.
Boosts employee productivity and performance.
Improves employee morale and job satisfaction while decreasing turnover.
Increases organizational reputation by preparing the team to accept risk and innovation.

How do I write a cover letter for a training position?

Select the appropriate salutation and write a compelling introduction to make your document stand out.
Connect your hard and soft abilities to your accomplishments, particularly those specified in the job advertisement's prerequisites section. This will assist you in passing applicant tracking systems that scan documents for specific keywords.
Mention how your abilities and previous accomplishments can benefit the team's growth.
Finish on a positive tone to boost your chances of getting a callback.

How do I write a cover letter for a corporate trainer?

Corporate trainers organize instructional activities and assess training needs to develop organizational human resources. They are essential to a company's goals of staff retention and growth. Use the tips below to build a powerful cover letter that emphasizes your area of expertise:

Emphasize your teaching experience by offering specific examples of how you've previously taught or trained others.
Demonstrate your ability to engage learners using various training methods.
Show your expertise in training approaches using examples to help the organization comprehend your training abilities.
Check your cover letter for spelling and grammar errors.

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Oct 25, 2023

Written By Elizabeth Beesley

The Secret Recipe for the Perfect Training Contract Application

Securing a training contract in the competitive world of law is no small feat, and training contract applications are your first opportunity to prove you’re what firms are looking for. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide to creating the perfect training contract application. From customising your applications to the submission and follow-up process, we will unveil the secret recipe for success.

Deconstructing the Application Process

The journey of a training contract begins with understanding the application process. Typically, this process involves multiple stages, from application forms and situational judgement tests to attending assessment centres and undergoing interviews. Check out our selection and assessment hub for more tips on filling out application forms and excelling in critical thinking tests.

Need help with your training contract applications?

Learn how to construct the perfect answer to each question! Access our Online Application Masterclass for FREE now!

Tailoring Your Application

Law firms often receive a high volume of applications, and they need an efficient way to shortlist candidates for further assessment. Generic applications rarely make the cut, thus it is essential to customise each application to the specific firm. You need to understand their culture, practice areas, recent deals, and values, so you can tailor your application effectively. Customisation shows you’ve done your homework and are genuinely committed.

Crafting a Compelling Cover Letter

Your cover letter is your first chance to make a personal connection with the employer. It serves as an introduction to your application and should pique the reader’s interest. For example, you could start it with a statement about what led you to a career in law.

To create a compelling cover letter, you need to effectively showcase your relevant qualifications, skills, and experience. Look at the characteristics the firm is looking for in its candidates and think of ways you’ve demonstrated these. Then, you should explain how these experiences connect with the firm’s values and your motivation for applying.

Perfecting Your CV

Your CV should be professional and easy to read. Try to make your CV look well-organised, for example using bullet points, headers, and highlighting relevant achievements. For example, if the firm stresses that they’re innovative, highlight times where you’ve come up with exciting new ideas. It’s worth booking in with your university’s careers team to go over your CV, or getting a legal professional to review it. Overall, it’s vital to highlight your accomplishments and responsibilities. By focusing on your achievements, you’ll demonstrate your value and potential contributions to the firm.

Navigating the Competency-Based Questions

Many law firms use competency-based questions, which ask you to discuss times you’ve demonstrated specific skills. Being able to address these questions effectively is crucial.

The STAR technique is a structured framework used for answering competency-based questions. STAR stands for Situation Task, Action, and Result. Essentially, you explain the situation, why you were involved, what you did and the result of your actions. Using the STAR technique helps candidates provide well-organised responses that highlight their skills, experiences, and achievements.

Showcasing Your Motivation and Fit

Firms are not only interested in your skills but also your motivation for pursuing a career in law and your specific reasons for choosing their firm. For this reason, it is essential to convey your genuine interest and personalise your application to align with the firm’s areas of expertise. Your motivation is what will set you apart from the crowd.

Cultural fit is crucial in the legal profession. This will demonstrate that you’re a team player who will enjoy working at the firm. This doesn’t mean that everyone has to look the same (law firms are actively encouraging diversity in recruitment) but that your values align with the firms. The firm probably has a list of their values on their website.

Proofreading and Editing

Meticulous proofreading is essential to eliminate errors and ensure clarity in your application. Even the smallest error (using ‘&’ instead of ‘and’ in a firm’s name) can tarnish an otherwise outstanding application. Try changing the colour of your text, taking a break before rereading the application, and asking someone to proofread.

Submission and Follow-Up

Try to submit your application as early as you can. Many law firms review their applications as and when they receive them, and others might close submissions early due to the volume of applications.

It’s important to express continued interest without being overly persistent or pushy. Proper follow-up shows that you are genuinely interested and committed to the process. For example, you could email a law firm after an interview saying you enjoyed meeting everyone and would love to hear about next steps.

Finally, we encourage applicants to seek feedback from firms in case of unsuccessful applications. You can also reach out to careers advisors, legal professionals or lecturers for tips. A different perspective can help identify areas for improvement that you might have overlooked.

In conclusion, the secret recipe for the perfect training contract application is a combination of thorough research, customisation and proofreading. Armed with this knowledge, you can approach the application process with confidence and determination. It’s not about being the best; it’s about proving you’re the best fit for the firm.

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Applications

How to write winning covering letters for law firms.

targetjobs editorial team

24 Mar 2023, 17:42

When applying for a training contract or vacation scheme, your covering letter may be the first part of your application a law firm considers.

Your covering letter creates a powerful first impression, so make it easy for the recruiter to see that you have strong potential as a lawyer.

Many law graduate jobs at solicitors’ firms in the UK will ask you to apply for a training contract with a covering letter. Read this advice from recruiters at Slaughter and May, Cleary Gottlieb and Ince & Co, then follow our law cover letter template.

Some recruiters will want you to upload your covering letter as part of an online application form (such as Baker McKenzie and Jones Day), while others – usually smaller, high street law firms – will want you to send the letter alongside a CV (see our law CV example here ).

Cover letter template: see our annotated law covering letter sample for more tips and format examples .

How to write a law cover letter tip #1: use the letter to explain why you want to be a solicitor at that particular law firm

A covering letter is a golden opportunity to explain your motivations for becoming a lawyer and for applying to that specific firm. ‘My advice is to use the cover letter to introduce yourself and to explain why you are applying to that firm,' says Janine Arnold, trainee recruitment manager at Slaughter and May . ‘Be sure to include any additional information that you feel is relevant to your application.’

If you’re uploading a covering letter as part of a larger application form you should avoid repeating examples you’ve used to answer questions on the form. Give as broad a picture of your skills and experience as possible and only repeat something if you think it is particularly significant to that law firm. Your covering letter is an introduction to get the recruiter’s attention – a sample of your potential, if you like – not your overall application.

‘A well-written, succinct, persuasive covering letter crafted by an aspiring trainee solicitor who has really thought about the firm stands out,’ says Nichola Rowe, director of legal human resources at Cleary Gottlieb . ‘Ask yourself: what sets this firm apart from other law firms and how do my individual skills and experiences marry with that firm?’.

How to write a law cover letter tip #2: how long should it be?

A covering letter should be a maximum of one page, with a font size of 11 or 12. Slaughter and May ’s Janine Arnold agrees: ‘A lengthy covering letter is not necessary; aim for it to be no longer than one side of A4.' Remember that some firms will give a word count for the covering letter they want you to write as part of your application. It's important to stick to that word count. It shows that you can write succinctly and follow instructions.

Get the insights and skills you need to shape your career journey with Pathways. We’ll show you exactly what goes into a convincing cover letter, so you can give yourself the best chance of getting to the next stage of the application process.

How to write a law cover letter tip #3: the format law firms like

The best law cover letter examples have a clear structure, such as:

1. The introduction to your cover letter

Introduce yourself, explain what stage you are at in your degree course (including the university you’re attending), state that you are applying for a training contract and where you read about the law firm. This should only be a sentence or two.

2. A paragraph on why you want to work at that law firm

The second paragraph should cover why you want to be a solicitor and why you want to work for that law firm in particular. Highlight any experiences you’ve had that have convinced you that you want to be a solicitor, such as vacation schemes, open days or insight days. You can even mention mini-pupillages – it will impress graduate recruiters if you’ve put the effort into comparing the two sides of the legal profession, as long as you have good reasons for picking a career as a solicitor (this could come up at interview).

Make it clear why you want to work in the particular area of law that the firm focuses on. For example, if it’s a commercial firm you’ll want to draw on any work experience you’ve had at other commercial firms. Show off your research about the firm by explaining your interest in their main legal practice areas – don’t just say ‘I am interested in shipping law’, for example, but provide evidence of that interest.

You might also want to mention the firm’s training structure. Some firms will have compulsory seats, in which case you’ll need to show an interest in those areas. If you’ve chosen a firm that doesn’t have compulsory seats, or has no seat structure at all (such as Jones Day for example), then you could explain why this appeals to you above a more defined training contract structure.

3. A paragraph highlighting why you're a good fit for the law firm

Next, you need to pitch yourself to the recruiter. Make it clear that you are suited to a career as a solicitor: highlight achievements that show you have the competencies the firm has asked for. If the firm hasn’t specified exactly what it's looking for, see our article here on the skills most legal recruiters want from applicants. Don’t just say ‘I have good communication skills’ – you need to mention an achievement that hinged on your use of those skills.

4. The ending to your law covering letter

Close by referring the recruiter to your CV or application and stating your availability for interview(s) or assessment centre(s).

How to write a law cover letter tip #4: explain any extenuating circumstances

'Covering letters should also explain any mitigating circumstances relating to exam results and to address any questions that you may reasonably expect to arise from your application, such as any gaps in your CV,’ explains Janine.

How to write a law cover letter tip #5: proofread your cover letter before you hit ‘send’

Once you’ve put your covering letter together, don’t be tempted to rush it off. Ask friends, family and your university careers adviser to check it. ‘There is no good excuse for spelling errors, especially when you’re applying for a job that requires scrupulous attention to detail,’ points out a legal recruitment adviser at Ince & Co . ‘The number of applications we receive that contain errors is surprising. Your application is all we’ve got to go on, so you owe it to yourself to ensure it’s not let down by something so easily avoidable.’

Remember that law firms will be judging your ability to communicate professionally with clients on the professionalism of your covering letter – you’re making a pitch, just like you would do as a practising lawyer.

Legal recruiters at major law firms read through hundreds, if not thousands, of applications from aspiring trainee solicitors each year and will only spend a minute or so reading your covering letter. Some recruiters say that they make their decision paragraph by paragraph – if you haven't impressed upon them that you would be a good fit for their firm halfway through the cover letter, they might not even read the rest. Your covering letter creates a powerful first impression, so make it easy for the recruiter to see that you have strong potential as a solicitor by following the tips above.

In other news: Massive changes to the way solicitors qualify are on the horizon. Do you know how they will affect you? Find out here .

targetjobs editorial advice

This describes editorially independent and impartial content, which has been written and edited by the targetjobs content team. Any external contributors featuring in the article are in line with our non-advertorial policy, by which we mean that we do not promote one organisation over another.

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Training Contract Applications - How Can You Stand Out?

Recruiters can receive hundreds, even thousands, of training contract applications every year. How do you make yours stand out? This guide offers some essential tips.

Training Contract Applications Advice

Discover what the application process involves
Get top tips on how to write a knock-out CV
Learn how to stand out in your cover letter
Find out what to do once you receive an offer

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Heading into your training contract applications, strong academic records and relevant work experience are a great start. However, learning to sell your unique experiences is just as important.

How To Apply For A Training Contract

To apply for a training contract, you will need to identify the law firms that you want to submit an application to. You will need to work out what kind of law firms you want to apply to. For example, are you interested in commercial law or criminal law? Do you want to work for a city firm or a regional law firm?

You will need to do your research. Once you have chosen which law firms you want to apply to, you need to treat every application like an individual project.

Usually, you will need to complete a training contract application form and submit a solicitor CV and covering letter to each law firm you apply to.

To help you prepare for your training contract applications, Clifford Chance offers a series of Skills Sessions which are designed to help you build your commercial awareness as well as tips and advice on how to apply.

Take a look at Clifford Chance’s video on how to prepare an application and what you should do you before you apply:

Check out Clifford Chance’s training contract page for more information on their programme structure, benefits and application procedure.

How Many Should I Apply For?

Five to ten law firm training contract applications are recommended. If you try to apply with too many firms, you risk missing deadlines trying to complete them all. If you only apply to one firm, you risk having no other law firms to fall back on if your application is rejected. You need to apply to just enough law firms, but not too many.

See our dedicated guide on law training contracts for more information.

How Competitive Are Training Contracts?

It is no secret that securing a training contract is a difficult process. The odds vary massively between firms. However, at the top end of the scale, at elite US or Magic Circle law firms, you could be roughly looking at a success rate of anything between 20% and 5%.

Your odds are significantly higher based on a number of criteria, however, including the university you have studied at or the grade you have achieved (e.g. a 1 st compared to a 2:1).

Which Firms Should I Apply To?

Based on the competitive point above, it is natural to want to apply to a number of different law firms for a training contract. Estimates vary widely between aspiring lawyers, though many will aim to send off somewhere between 5 and 15 applications.

You also need to consider which actual firms pique your interest. Shortlisting firms to apply to can be based on a number of factors, including:

Practice area specialism
Law school support (whether firms will cover your fees for the PGDL and SQE / LPC if relevant – plus the provision of a maintenance grant to live on during that time period).
Firm culture
Working hours
Number of training contracts offered per year
Any particular benefits/perks .

Who Is Eligible To Apply For Training Contracts?

Eligibility for training contract and vacation scheme applications will vary for each firm. The only way to be sure is to check on each firm’s individual website. If the information is not clear at that stage, feel free to drop an email to the firm’s recruitment team.

Training Contract Deadlines

Each firm sets their own deadlines for training contracts. Most aspiring lawyers will be applying to vacation schemes in the hopes of receiving a training contract at the end of the scheme, but others will submit ‘direct’ training contract applications. These two paths will usually have different deadlines.

Broadly speaking, training contract and vacation scheme application cycles roughly align with the first term of the academic year – you’ll probably be busiest with applications between September and November.

It is also worth noting that some firms deal with applications on a ‘rolling’ basis – meaning they will be accepted or rejected as they come in. Prioritise these applications first.

For an overview of dates, you could take a look at The Lawyer Portal’s training contract deadlines page.

Stand Out In Your Law Interviews

Check out our Training Contract Interview Guide for Top Tips

Training Contract CV

Not all training contract applications require a CV. Those that do will often use them as a key part of the application process, and so it is important to refine yours as much as possible. These are a few key elements of a solicitor CV to consider:

Formalities

Standing out in your CV does not mean being overly outrageous in your choices of formatting. Stick to safe fonts such as Times New Roman, basic colours and adequate line spacing and borders. Overall, your text itself should do the talking when it comes to your individuality.

In terms of length, most people can adequately fit their relevant experience onto one side of A4. Aim to stick to one side of A4.

While not compulsory, it can really help your CV to stand out if you are able to include a few personalised lines at the top of the page providing a broad overview of who you are. This could include your current educational institution, a handful of concise, work experience examples, a few adjectives best encapsulating your character or personality, and a particular area of passion within the legal sector. Keep it short, concise, and relevant.

Many training contract applicants are students or recent graduates. As a result, you are unlikely to have amassed a huge catalogue of work experience. Instead, your educational achievements are likely to shine through the most. Provide details of your grades (anything from GCSE or age 16 onwards is often recommended), as well as predicted grades for university study if you have not yet graduated.

Not all applicants will have relevant legal work experience at this stage. If you do, then you should certainly include it. If not, use your unique experiences to your advantage. Other easy ways to gain experience with some relevance to law include becoming a brand ambassador. The Lawyer Portal has a shared brand ambassador scheme with law firm Bird & Bird. You can also look out for online virtual work experience programmes.

For each piece of work experience, include the name of the organisation, the name of your specific role, the tasks involved in this role, and the start and end dates. Order your work experience by relevance – the best at the top, then work your way downwards.

Training Contract Cover Letter

Tailor your letter for each firm .

A small number of firms will ask for cover letters . This is an excellent chance to personalise your application, since covering letter for law firms are essentially an opportunity to link your personal experiences and demonstrate how these are closely aligned. For this reason, cover letters need to be very closely tailored to the firm itself.

Law Cover Letter Format

There is no set structure or format for a covering letter for a law firm, but many will choose to follow some of the following guidelines:

Stick to one A4 side
Open the document as you would a letter (with the firm’s name and address, followed by ‘Dear [Insert Firm Name]’, etc.)
Introduce yourself – your background, how you came to discover the legal industry, etc.
Hone in on your experience and passion in the legal sector
Focus intensely on the specifics of the firm you are applying to – why does it appeal to you? What are some recent deals they have worked on that interest you?

Training Contract Application Questions

The vast majority of applications will feature a handful of boxes asking you specific questions, which you will need to answer in a paragraph or two. Common questions include:

What interests you about becoming a solicitor?
Why are you specifically interested in this firm?
Do you have a particular practice area that interests you?
Tell us about a recent news story that you think could affect our firm’s work.

Launch Your Career With Clifford Chance

Discover training opportunities to kickstart your solicitor career

The key point to add in terms of differentiating yourself at the interview stage is the fact that your abilities on paper (e.g. educational qualifications, work experience, etc.) have ticked a box. Whether via video call or face-to-face, interviews are your chance to really let your personality shine through. Make sure to come across as personable, engaged and genuinely passionate about participating in a training contract with this firm. Your interviewers may be your supervisors one day – they will also want to see if you will integrate well into the firm’s culture.

Every law firm has a different training contract application process, but you will find that many of the questions give you an opportunity to demonstrate what makes you different from other applicants. Some of the training contract questions might include:

Why do you want to be a lawyer?

If a training contract application asks this question, avoid being overly academic or focusing solely on legal theory. You need to demonstrate how your experiences relate to you wanting to become a lawyer. Make sure your answer is personal, talks about your skills, motivations and relevant experience . You should also cover your short- and long-term career goals.

How would you describe your personality?

A lot of law firms ask this question to assess your character. To answer this question, make sure you use the job specification to guide you. The job specification usually features the type of characteristics a law firm is looking for. Once you know what a law firm is looking for, you can be specific with your answers.

Give an example of a time you demonstrated a specific quality or personality trait. It is important that you can back up what you say when answering personality-focused questions.

Why do you think you are suited to a career with us?

To answer this question, you must do your research on the law firm(s) that you are applying to. Specifically, you should research the key practice area(s) of the law firm, their training program and their culture. You should answer in a natural and structured way.

Law firms are looking for clear communication so that when they first read your answer they can quickly see how you have linked your career aspirations with what they can offer you.

Discuss a news article that interests you.

This training contract application question is designed to assess your commercial understanding, motivation to join a firm and your analytical ability. For this question, you need to fully research the law firm(s) you are applying to for a training contract.

You will need to go beyond the law firm’s website with your research and look at the type of candidates a firm recruits, the skills and qualities the firm values in its people. You should research the firm’s clients, the sectors they operate in, its market position and its strategy.

Training Contract Offer

Once you’ve gone through all the steps of the recruitment process, you should hear back from the firm within a few days to a month on whether you were successful at gaining a place. So what do you do once you’ve received an offer?

It’s important to take some time to carefully consider your options. Evaluate the firm’s culture, values, and the opportunities they offer for professional growth . Consider reaching out to current or former trainees to gain insights into their experiences. If you have multiple offers, compare the benefits, such as practice areas, salaries, and training programs. Take into account your long-term career goals and how each offer aligns with them.

Once you have made your decision, promptly notify the firm of your acceptance and express your gratitude for the opportunity. Remember, this is just the beginning of your legal career, so make sure to start off on the right foot by making an informed decision.

Take a look at Clifford Chance’s video on what the next steps are once you’ve received an offer:

Find out more about what life is like as a trainee at Clifford Chance .

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How to apply for a training contract: a masterclass

updated on 28 May 2024

As anyone entering the legal profession is constantly reminded, it’s competitive to get a training contract. Applicants can be competing against hundreds, if not thousands, of other candidates for a small number of training contract vacancies. While some law firms will take on 50+ trainees a year, other firms employ only a handful.

Reading time: nine minutes

Securing a training contract is a competitive process, so it’s important that you spend time perfecting your application to guarantee an interview or assessment centre.

If you’re not sure where to start or just looking to fine tune your application form, here’s our four-step training contract application masterclass.

Step 1: understand your goals and competencies

When writing a cover letter, or answering questions like 'Why law?' or 'Why do you want to be a commercial solicitor’, it’s crucial to articulate your motivations, as well as what makes you suitable for the role. Write two lists of bullet points – one on why you really want to become a solicitor and what you think you’d most enjoy about the job; and another listing all your experiences and the skills they involved (eg, attention to detail, interpersonal skills and teamwork).

This will help you decide broadly which type of firm you want to apply to (eg, commercial, family or employment), as well as the raw material on which to base your firm-specific cover letters and application form answers.

Learn more about the key skills you need to demonstrate in your applications and find out what it’s like to work in specific practice areas with LCN’s Practice Area Profiles , featuring insights from lawyers on the ground.

Step 2: create your shortlist of firms

Writing a truly excellent application is time consuming, so when deciding where to apply, be realistic about your chances at each firm and choose a shortlist that gives you the best chance of success.

If a firm has a minimum requirement of AAB at A level and a 2:1, but an applicant has BBB and a 2:1, it’s likely that the application will be automatically rejected in the first sift. That said, an increasing number of firms are using contextual recruitment in their recruitment processes, meaning they’re considering more than just grades to discover applicants they may otherwise have missed.

Read this Oracle to find out about including extenuating circumstances in training contract and vacation scheme applications .

But it’s not solely about playing the game: you should apply to firms that you’re genuinely interested in, with factors such as location, size and work areas all influencing your final decision. You might also consider applying to in-house training contracts, which can be more flexible than traditional firm training contracts.

Read this feature to find out about in-house training contracts and careers .

If you want a firm to pay for your postgraduate education (ie, law conversion course or Solicitors Qualifying Exam preparation course) you’re looking at roughly 200 firms. It’ll take a significant amount of time to craft a quality law firm application, which means applying to fewer than 10 firms will be more effective than copy and pasting the same cover letter and application answers to 50. It’s essential to know what a firm does, who it does this for, where it’s doing it and what its culture and values are.

There are plenty of resources available for researching firms , but firms' own websites and recruitment materials are a good place to start. Look at the work areas they emphasise; their press releases, press mentions and client publications/newsletters; the physical footprint of the firm and its size/demographics; the style of language it uses and the messages it’s chosen to send about its culture. But also bear in mind that a lot of this will be marketing material – it’s therefore important to do your own research about the firm.

Use independent resources such as LawCareers.Net, as well as blogs and other guides. Don't forget LinkedIn , Instagram and X . You can follow firms and lawyers on these networks, find out about the latest legal news and developments, and gain insights into what it’s like to work in different firms and areas of the law.

To decide which firms are right for you, ask yourself the following questions:

Where do I want to work? Use LawCareers.Net’s training contract search to identify your list of potential firms.
What type of lawyer do I want to be (eg, commercial , family or crime )? Do I have any specialist commercial/legal experience or academic interests? Use LawCareers.Net to identify firms with practice groups in your preferred fields .
Do I have an interest in a particular practice area (eg, renewable energy , pharmaceuticals /biotech or broadcasting/media )? It may simply be the case that you follow news stories in this field because you enjoy reading about them.
Have I had face-to-face contact with any law firms, for example, through meeting people at events such as LawCareersNetLIVE ?
Which presentations or other firm-led events did I attend? Here’s a good example of explaining why you’re interested in a firm: "I first encountered the firm at X and this session subsequently sparked an interest in emerging markets..."
Have I written any papers or good blogs on a particular subject?
Do I speak a useful language or have experience living in a different part of the world? Spanish, Arabic and Mandarin speakers are particularly sought after by law firms that want to grow their business in regions where these languages are spoken and you should use this to your advantage if you have fluency.
Did I do well in my first-year exams? If you have straight 2:1s then consider applying to the most prestigious firms, especially if you have some high 2:1s (or, better still, firsts). For commercial firms, the most important papers to score well in are contract and tort.

Step 3: take a professional approach to applications

A flawless application proves that you’re capable of producing work of the required standard as a lawyer. You must perfect the ability to write well and proofread accurately. Ask a friend, family member or careers adviser to check your application and offer constructive criticism.

“Should I use AI in my applications to law firms?” – LCN considers the varying law firm approaches to the use of AI in training contract applications in this Oracle .

Don’t apply in the last few days before a deadline. This is when a high proportion of forms hit firms' systems and most of these are lower in quality. Stand out by applying well ahead of the deadline.
Adhere to word limits and use them as a guide to how much a recruiter expects you to write.
Read the question and make bullet points listing what it’s asking. Check with someone you trust that they agree with your interpretation of the question. Identify which of your achievements evidence the themes you’re incorporating into your answer.
Every claim should have supporting evidence – don’t say you have a certain skill without providing proof in your work experience or extracurricular activities.
Don’t copy and paste the same answers and cover letter into different applications. Once you’ve submitted several applications and have a range of well-crafted and evidenced past answers to draw on, the task of applying will become easier. Never copy and paste an answer, but you may be able to use elements of past answers in future applications.
Recruiters want to understand how you tick as an individual, so make your answers authentic and allow them to tell the real story of you.
Structure your answers and make them concise. Introduce the concept (beginning), develop it (middle) and underscore its relevance (end). Persuasion should be your goal, not using the words that you think firms want to read. It’s better to write simply and concisely, rather than throwing in flowery language you wouldn’t normally use. Don’t forget the job of a solicitor is often to write things in a clear way for clients to understand!
Don’t let your email junk settings ruin the application process – read these tips for making online applications .

For vacation scheme application tips, that would also be relevant to training contract applications, read this LCN Says: ‘ Top 10 tips for your vacation scheme applications ’.

Step 4: create a persuasive covering letter

If a firm asks for a cover letter, it should say how long it should be. If not, aim for no more than one page to a page-and-a-half (600 to 700 words). Don’t waste too much space stating why you’re writing. If you wish to open your letter that way, why not go straight into why you want to train with this particular firm? For example:

"I wish to be considered for a training contract at X, having first become aware of the firm at a careers day at the University of X, when I spoke with two of its trainees. Our discussion about their experiences at the firm led me to find out more about the firm’s insurance and reinsurance practice, which is an area I have now become interested in exploring further.

"I’m aware that the firm has a number of clients in the insurance sector and is still working on residual claims arising from X news issue/story. I know that litigation in cases such as this can be particularly complex, given the large number of parties and high stakes involved, and I believe that my attached application demonstrates that I have an aptitude for complex analysis and long-term projects. In particular, I would draw your attention to…"

As well as delivering some factual information, the above paragraphs introduce a person who:

is committed to finding out about their career;
possesses networking skills;
has researched the firm;
understands something about one of its key business areas and shows interest;
thinks about things from the client’s perspective;
is realistic about commercial law in practice;
writes fluidly, can pack many messages into few words and isn’t too informal; and
has an authentic and interesting story to tell.

Either in the cover letter or a separate section of the application, you may be asked to provide a statement explaining why you think you’re suitable for the role by referring to your skills and experience. If you progress to the next stage, this may be assessed further in a competency-based interview or strengths-based interview.

For advice on submitting your application in a timely manner, read ‘Does it matter when I submit my training contract application?’

Take note of the skills and qualities highlighted, both in the application information provided to would-be trainees and in anything you learn about the firm’s wider culture. Then choose an example from your previous experience to demonstrate that you have a particular skill. Consider structuring your example in the STAR format:

Situation – provide brief details of the scenario so the recruiter can understand the context of your example.
Task – outline what the objective was in the situation.
Action – set out what you decided to do and how you approached it.
Result – explain whether the objective was achieved, any other benefits your actions had and what you learned.

The cover letter is hugely important. It needs to sell you explicitly, but subtly. It also needs to hit the right buttons at each firm, and this necessarily requires a letter that’s tailored firm by firm. If you’ve shortlisted your firms using a particular theme or strategy, then there’ll be noticeable areas of crossover.

Good luck with your applications!

For more application advice, take a look at the below:

‘How to write the perfect cover letter, CV or application form’
LawCareers.Net masterclass: ‘ LAW FIRM APPLICATIONS: how to succeed’
‘Should I mention other firms on vacation scheme applications? ’
‘How to demonstrate the key skills for law applications’
‘Training contract and vacation scheme applications: three ways non-law students can stand out.’

Ellie Nicholl (she/her) is a content and engagement coordinator at LawCareers.Net.

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Legal Cover Letter Guide for Training Contracts and Vacation Schemes

Home » News » Legal Cover Letter Guide for Training Contracts and Vacation Schemes

What Is a Legal Cover Letter?

Legal Cover Letters Explained Infographic Table

Structure of a Legal Cover Letter

The introduction should grab the reader’s attention and provide a brief overview of who you are and what position you are applying for.
The body of the letter is where you discuss your qualifications, experiences, and skills, making sure to align them with the position’s requirements and the firm’s values.
The conclusion wraps up your letter, often with a call to action or a statement of enthusiastic anticipation for a potential interview.

Cover Letter Format and Layout

Example of a Legal Cover Letter for a Training Contract with Instructions on How To Write It

Writing an Effective Legal Cover Letter

Step 1: Start with a Strong Opening – Address the letter to a specific person and state the position you’re applying for.
Step 2: Engage with Personalized Introduction – Tailor your introduction to the firm and the legal role, showing your knowledge and interest.
Step 3: Highlight Relevant Skills and Experiences – Focus on legal experiences, education, and skills that directly apply to the job.
Step 4: Use Specific Examples – Illustrate your abilities and achievements with specific examples from your career or education.
Step 5: Conclude with a Call to Action – End your letter by reiterating your interest and requesting an interview.

Starting Your Cover Letter: Best Practices for Opening Lines

The Importance of Your Opening Line – The opening lines should be concise and impactful. Begin by stating the position you are applying for and where you found the listing. This not only shows your direct interest but also helps the employer understand the context of your application. A compelling start could also include a brief mention of why you are particularly interested in this role or firm, perhaps referencing a recent case or the firm’s philosophy that resonates with you.
Add a Personal Touch – Tailoring the introduction involves showcasing your knowledge of the law firm and the specific legal position. Mention any direct connections you have to the firm, like a referral or a previous encounter with one of their lawyers. This personal touch demonstrates your proactive approach and genuine interest in the firm.

Body of the Cover Letter

What to Include: Skills, Experience, and Qualifications – Focus on the most relevant experiences and skills that apply to the position. For a legal cover letter, emphasize any legal work, internships, or education. Don’t just list your experiences; explain how they make you a good fit for this specific role. Use examples to demonstrate your skills, such as a successful negotiation or a research project that you completed during your LPC course .
How to Write About Legal Experiences and Education – When discussing legal experiences and education, be specific. Mention any particular areas of law you’ve studied or worked in, notable cases you’ve been involved with, or any research you’ve conducted. If you’ve had any significant achievements or have been recognized in your field, this is the place to highlight them.
Tailor Your Cover Letter for a Law Firm – It’s crucial to tailor it to the specific firm’s ethos, practice areas, and the role you’re applying for. Research the firm thoroughly and mention aspects of their work that align with your experiences and interests. Show them why you are not just a fit for the legal industry in general but for their firm in particular.

Concluding Your Cover Letter

How to Effectively Conclude and Call to Action – Reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and the firm, and politely express your desire for an interview. A strong conclusion reaffirms your fit for the role and can make your application memorable.
The Importance of a Strong Closing in Legal Applications – In legal applications, a strong closing is crucial as it demonstrates your ability to conclude arguments effectively—a key skill in the legal profession. It’s also your final opportunity to express your keen interest in the position.

Writing a Cover Letter for Vacation Schemes and Internships

Understanding the Purpose of Your Application – The primary goal of your cover letter for these programs should be to highlight your enthusiasm for the law, your academic accomplishments, and any extracurricular activities or previous work experiences (legal or otherwise) that demonstrate relevant skills. It’s essential to convey your commitment to pursuing a career in law and your interest in gaining hands-on experience. You may go as far back as your A-Level law course or as recent as your SQE prep course .
Highlighting Academic and Extracurricular Achievements – Use your cover letter to draw attention to your academic strengths, particularly in law-related subjects. Mention any law-related projects, dissertations, or presentations that you have undertaken. For example, you may have done something extraordinary during your PGDL course . Additionally, highlight your participation in extracurricular activities, especially those that demonstrate skills useful in the legal profession, such as debate clubs, moot court competitions, or volunteer work.
Demonstrating Interest in the Specific Firm or Area of Law – Research the firm or organization offering the vacation scheme or internship. Tailor your cover letter to reflect an understanding of what they specialize in and express why you are interested in that area of law. If the firm is known for a particular type of law, show how your interests and experiences align with this.
Reflecting on What You Hope to Gain and Offer – Be clear about what you hope to gain from the experience and how it fits into your longer-term career goals. At the same time, discuss what you can bring to the table. Even if you don’t have direct legal experience, skills such as research, analysis, teamwork, and communication are highly relevant and valued in legal settings.
The Importance of Professionalism and Clarity – As with any legal cover letter, maintain a professional tone and clear structure. Ensure your passion for law and eagerness to learn come through, but balance this with a formal and respectful approach that reflects the professionalism expected in the legal field.

Writing a Cover Letter for Training Contracts

Tailoring Your Approach to the Firm – Each law firm has its unique characteristics and areas of expertise. Tailor your cover letter to reflect an understanding of the firm’s specializations, values, and culture. Express how these align with your career aspirations and why this particular training contract appeals to you.
Highlight Unique Experiences or Skills – While your legal experience may be limited at this stage, focus on transferable skills and experiences that demonstrate your potential as a trainee solicitor. This could include analytical skills from academic projects, teamwork and leadership experience from extracurricular activities , or any legal work experience you may have.
Demonstrating Long-Term Interest – Firms want to invest in trainees who have a genuine interest in staying with the firm post-training. Express your long-term career vision and how it aligns with the opportunities at the firm. Show that you have a keen interest in growing within the firm and contributing to its future successes.
Conveying Enthusiasm and Professionalism – Your enthusiasm for the law and the specific training contract should shine through in your cover letter. However, balance this enthusiasm with professionalism, showing that you understand the serious commitment of a training contract and are ready to meet its challenges.
Articulate Your Vision for Contributing to the Firm – Instead of just focusing on what you hope to gain from the training contract, turn the tables. Articulate a vision of how you see yourself contributing to the firm. Maybe you have ideas for community engagement initiatives or are interested in contributing to the firm’s legal research publications.

Legal CV vs Legal Cover Letter

Top 5 tips for you to succeed, tip #1 – the length of your legal cover letter, tip #2 – what not to include in a legal cover letter, tip #3 – addressing the cover letter, tip #4 – customize for each application, tip #5 – proofread multiple times, frequently asked questions, how can an applicant effectively research a law firm to tailor their cover letter more specifically to that firm, what are some common mistakes in legal cover letters that can negatively impact an applicant’s chances, how should an applicant handle gaps in their legal experience or education when writing a cover letter, in what ways can an applicant demonstrate their potential for long-term growth and contribution to a law firm, exclusive industry scoop.

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Sample cover letter for Full Time position at White and Case

Training contract.

Dear Sir/Madam,

Re: Application for Training Contract at X.

I am writing to apply for a training contract at Y commencing in September 2016. I have recently graduated with a BA degree in X from X University, and I am about to start my GDL course.

A training contract at Y would allow me to train at a well-established, leading international law firm that is committed to excellence in the practice of law promoting ethical standards, diversity and staff individuality. I find particularly interesting Z. Furthermore, I find it highly impressive that Xhas advised on some of the largest transactions. Finally, I am enthusiastic about X commitment to Pro Bono work.

I feel confident that I could contribute substantively to the firm.

Before university, I worked as X. I have learned how tomultitask as well as how to take decisions in decisiveness and determination while at the same time listening to other people’s opinions. I have tremendously enhanced my leadership and teamwork skills, and continue to strive to improve myself on an ongoing basis to increase both my professional and personal integrity as well as to practice and develop creative thinking.

My work experience with Y, who specializes in IP, Competition, Commercial and IT law demonstrates my commitment towards the law profession. As part of my work with Y I delivered legal research and participated in legal meetings with both clients and solicitors regarding legal cases in his primary fields of expertise.

I had the opportunity to write an honours thesis on X for which I received a first class grade.

Thank you in advance for your time and consideration.

Yours sincerely,

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Training Contract cover letter examples [Get Noticed]
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Training Contract cover letter examples [Get Noticed]
Training Contract cover letter examples [Get Noticed]
05+ Best Training Contract Cover Letter Example
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How To Write a Training Contract Cover Letter in 5 Steps
Consider the following steps to learn how to write a training contract cover letter: 1. Begin with a brief introduction. Consider beginning your cover letter with a brief introduction. In a short paragraph, you can include information about your education, background and your current stage of study. You may also describe your intentions for ...
How To Write a Training Contract Cover Letter (With Example)
Specify which training contract you're applying for and the start date. 2. Introduce yourself to the recipient. Once you've stipulated why you're writing, you can briefly introduce yourself. If you're currently in the final stages of the LPC, or have just completed it, state this in your cover letter.
Training Contract Covering Letter
Use a formal business letter template: your address and the name and address of recipient should be at the top of the letter. If you are emailing them, put the covering letter in the body of the email and omit the addresses. Try to find out the name of the person who will be reading your covering letter. That way you can address it to them.
Training Contract cover letter examples
Writing an impressive cover letter is a crucial step in landing a Training Contract, so taking the time to perfect it is well worth while. By following the tips and examples above you will be able to create an eye-catching cover letter that will wow recruiters and ensure your CV gets read - leading to more job interviews for you.
successful training contract cover letter example
Writing a successful training contract cover letter requires time, effort, and attention to detail. Use the tips and examples provided in this article to create a strong cover letter that showcases your skills and experience, and demonstrates your passion for the industry.
Training Contract Cover Letter: Example & How to Write
Create a cover letter faster than you ever thought possible and apply for the job in record time. 2. Choose a winning salutation for your training contract cover letter. Start your cover letter for a training contract with the salutation 'Dear' + the first name of the person responsible for the recruitment process.
How to Write a Training Contract Cover Letter (With Example)
To help you write a good training contract cover letter, consider following these guidelines: 1. Include a proper header to the letter. One of the fundamental components of any cover letter is to include your address and the recipient's, along with names. This information is typically in two blocks, the block on the top left-hand corner usually ...
Training Contract Covering Letter
The body of a good covering letter would read along the following lines: 1. Why you are writing. Open the letter with why you are writing. For example, you are writing to apply for a training contract with the firm commencing in September 2014. Mention the advertisement if you are applying in response to one (but not necessary if the vacancy is ...
Top 5 Training Cover Letter Templates with Samples and Examples
Template 2: Cover Letter for on-the-job Training Services Template. Use this PPT Template to highlight your training services for specialized learning and staffing assistance. This cover letter helps to showcase your best training practices to ensure your clients experience the highest satisfaction. It comprises a roadmap that enables employees ...
Acing the training contract covering letter
A good training contract covering letter should be bespoke to each employer and must: Identify the employer's needs. Show how the applicant fills the employer's needs. The biggest covering letter mistake a student can make is to send the same letter to each employer which tells the employer that the student has skills.
The Secret Recipe for the Perfect Training Contract Application
In conclusion, the secret recipe for the perfect training contract application is a combination of thorough research, customisation and proofreading. Armed with this knowledge, you can approach the application process with confidence and determination. It's not about being the best; it's about proving you're the best fit for the firm.
Training Specialist Cover Letter Examples and Templates for 2024
Aspiring training specialists can review the job description to learn more about the skills and experience necessary for the role. Creating a compelling resume and cover letter can help you receive an offer for a training specialist position, and you can review resume samples for inspiration during the process. If you're applying for training specialist roles, learning to write an effective ...
Training and Development Cover Letter Examples
Keep the content of this letter fresh and recent. Do provide measurable examples of your work, such as the rate of improvement that resulted from a presentation you made or technical training you organized. Don't discuss qualifications you lack or draw attention to areas of weakness. If you've never created training materials, discuss your ...
How to write winning covering letters for law firms
How to write a law cover letter tip #1: use the letter to explain why you want to be a solicitor at that particular law firm. A covering letter is a golden opportunity to explain your motivations for becoming a lawyer and for applying to that specific firm. 'My advice is to use the cover letter to introduce yourself and to explain why you are ...
Stand Out in Your Training Contract Application
Training Contract Cover Letter Tailor Your Letter For Each Firm A small number of firms will ask for cover letters. This is an excellent chance to personalise your application, since covering letter for law firms are essentially an opportunity to link your personal experiences and demonstrate how these are closely aligned.
What is a training contract? Plus structure and tips
Plus structure and tips. The training contract is the final stage for qualifying as a solicitor. It involves a two-year training period at a law firm and includes many benefits, like gaining experience and acquiring access to new technologies. If you're considering applying for a training contract as a law student, understanding the processes ...
How to apply for a training contract: a masterclass
Step 2: create your shortlist of firms. Writing a truly excellent application is time consuming, so when deciding where to apply, be realistic about your chances at each firm and choose a shortlist that gives you the best chance of success. If a firm has a minimum requirement of AAB at A level and a 2:1, but an applicant has BBB and a 2:1, it ...
Cover Letter seeking Training Contract
Cover Letter seeking Training Contract. Knowing how to draft your Cover Letter properly is paramount to successfully securing a Training Contract interview. This cover letter can also be applied to other roles within the profession such as paralegal roles. Our sample cover letter with annotations will assist you with style, format and content.
Legal Cover Letter Guide That Gets You Jobs in 2024
Writing a Cover Letter for Training Contracts. In a cover letter for a training contract, highlight your commitment to pursuing a career in law, your understanding of the firm's area of practice, and how the training contract fits into your career plan. Be clear about why you see yourself as a part of that specific firm in the long term.
How to write a training contract CV (with example)
Related: How to write a legal CV (with steps, tips and examples) 2. Add your personal information. Add your personal and contact details to the top of your CV. Include your name first followed by your phone number, email address and town or city to show that you're in the same area as the firm in question. It isn't usually necessary to include ...
How To Write a Contract Specialist Cover Letter (With Template ...
Here are seven steps you can take to write a contract specialist cover letter: 1. List your contact information and the date you're writing. Listing your contact information immediately identifies you and gives the hiring manager the information they need to schedule an interview or phone screening.
Sample cover letter for Full Time position at White and Case
I am writing to apply for a training contract at Y commencing in September 2016. I have recently graduated with a BA degree in X from X University, and I am about to start my GDL course. ... Get access to over 7,000 cover letters from candidates getting jobs at your target companies. Get Full Access Link. Popular Cover Letters 1. Deloitte ...
How To Create a CV for a Law Training Contract (With Template)
To convey your professionalism, try to maintain the same formatting and tone throughout the CV. Here's a list of steps that may help you create a law training contract CV: 1. Provide your personal details. At the top of the page, provide your personal information, including your contact information. This usually helps the employer identify and ...
Automotive Technician Cover Letter with No Experience Sample
For instance, when I was helping a friend write a cover letter, she was in the middle of an automotive repair course. We emphasized her willingness to learn and mentioned how the skills she was gaining would help her be a strong fit for the role. Template 1: Automotive Technician Cover Letter (No Experience) Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],