Top Law Schools

So I’m a corporate biglaw midlevel, starting to apply for in house jobs (mainly in tech, but other industries too). A friend who is a few years older and just went in house said he only sent cover letters for positions that said they were basically mandatory, and he usually just applied with resumes (and got his job without a cover letter). It takes me a long time to tailor cover letters and I know I could apply to a lot more positions if I just sent out resumes.

We’re both T14 grads with relevant experience that’s evident on a resume.

Is it expected to send a cover letter for in house positions? Anybody who is already in house think poorly of someone without a cover letter? Thanks!

My take on it: if they specifically ask for a cover letter, send a cover letter. If they do not ask for a cover letter, then you don't need to send one unless you feel like there are reasons you would be a good fit for the job that aren't obvious from the resume (e.g., you have extracurricular/personal activities or interests that are relevant, you have personal connections within the company, etc.).

Also, I keep several different cover letter templates around, directed at different industries/job responsibilities. I'll grab the one that's closest to the job I'm applying for and customize from there. Saves some time.

I would only think negatively of someone who didn't submit a cover letter if we asked for one.

Thanks, that’s helpful!

I usually submit one if I can. I think it helps bring your application to life a bit. Like the other poster, I have a couple of "templates" for different types of companies that I start from. It can take a bit to tweak and tinker, but it's a pretty straightforward process once you've done a ton of them.