1. Paralegal Studies 1 Resumes, Cover Letters, & Interviews

2. Resumes o Focus on the hiring criteria o Watch for spelling or grammatical errors o Format o Easy to read o Clean o Use bullets rather than narrative form o Use action words o Use white space o Use a professional email address 2

3. Cover Letters o Format o Business Letter o Addressed to hiring manager, if possible o First Paragraph o Tell the reader which position you’re applying for o Second Paragraph o Highlight your qualifications o Identify significant accomplishments that relate to the position o Last Paragraph o Close with consideration and commitment o Be complimentary and appreciative o Ask the employer for the opportunity to discuss your qualifications in person o Sign and Proofread 3

4. Cover Letter Exercise o Draft a cover letter responding to the following job announcement posted online: Smith and Jones, L.L.P. has an estate planning and trust paralegal position for immediate hire. This position requires knowledge of estate planning, gift tax, creation of trusts and a thorough understanding of the process. Responsibilities include the ability to work well in a team environment, excellent writing and communication skills, ability to multi-task independently under deadline, strong attention to detail, editing and proofing with a proactive attitude. Competitive benefits package and salary. Respond to Announcement 34567, T. Franklin, Smith & Jones, 1245 Bell Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90012. 4

5. Interviews o Do your homework o Martindale-Hubbell o Create a professional image o Dress professionally o Bring: o copies of your resume o Reference list o Pen and legal pad o Portfolio that includes writing samples o Be on time o Be prepared to answer unexpected questions o What’s legal? 5

6. Interviews o Employers may not ask questions about: o Age o Race o Nationality o Religion o Marital status o Family/children o Unrelated criminal history o Sexual orientation o Disabilities 6

7. Resume & Interview Exercises o Your resume shows a three-year period of time during which you had four jobs. How should you handle this on the resume and in an interview? o During an interview you are asked, “What’s your medical history?” How should you respond to this question? 7