Write it Right: Networking Letters
Different from Cover Letters, which would be sent for specific job applications or inquiries, Networking Letters are sent for advice or to establish informational or networking contacts. These are especially effective if you do not know the hiring plans or timeline of the potential employers you are contacting.
- Reserve networking letters for your top valuable contacts, those who can advise you about key markets, geographic or practice areas.
- Usually you will not enclose a resume or other job search documents. If you do enclose your resume, be certain to indicate that you are doing so for purposes of introduction only.
- A great way to open a networking letter is with some reference to how you learned about the individual - let them know if a mutual contact referred you, if you read about them in a legal publication, learned about their work through the news or a legal directory.
- Be sure to include information that you have in common with the individual you are contacting - law school, undergraduate school, geographic location, practice area interest.
- Focus on the fact that you seek to develop your career path, do not mention the immediate job.
- Seek advice and guidance, this will be easy for them to give based on their similar experience.
- Do not try to cover all the points in your letter - you are setting the stage for an appointment (in person or by phone) to further the discussion and mentor relationship.
- You can send the initial contact via mail or e-mail. If sending by e-mail, try to be sure that your subject line will not get snagged in spam filters, and allow the same amount of time for a reply that you would for regular mail - 2-4 weeks.
- If you can give some structure or motivation for meeting, that is helpful. For example, let them know when you will be visiting their town.
- Again, do not mention the job. That is implicit, and you do not want the discussion to end if they are not hiring.
- Legal Career Services staff are always happy to help you with letter drafts and with thinking through the sorts of conversations you might have with networking contacts.