Crafting a patent lawyer cover letter can often be a daunting step in your job search journey, especially when you realize it's a required piece in the application puzzle. You've polished your resume, and now it’s time to showcase your proudest professional accomplishment without simply echoing your CV. Your cover letter should weave a compelling narrative within a formal structure, sidestepping worn-out phrases, all while fitting neatly on a single page. Let's navigate this challenge together.
- Personalize your patent lawyer cover letter and get inspired by other professionals to tell a compelling story;
- Format and design your patent lawyer cover letter to make an excellent first impression;
- Introduce your best achievement in your patent lawyer cover letter to recruiters;
- How to make sure recruiters get in touch with you, using your patent lawyer cover letter greeting and closing paragraphs.
What is more, did you know that Enhancv's AI can write your cover letter for you? Just upload your patent lawyer resume and get ready to forward your job application in a flash.
If the patent lawyer isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:
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Patent Lawyer cover letter example
James Jones
Charlotte, North Carolina
+1-(234)-555-1234
help@enhancv.com
- Highlighting specialized credentials: The cover letter mentions the title "Registered Patent Attorney" which is a crucial qualification for a company focused on intellectual property law, indicating that the applicant meets the formal requirements for the job.
- Demonstrating relevant achievements: By showcasing a specific case where the applicant increased a software patent portfolio from 10 to 50 patents, the applicant not only illustrates expertise in patent law but also an ability to deliver significant business value.
- Emphasizing leadership and communication skills: The applicant refers to "team leadership and client relations" which are important in a senior role where managing people and maintaining client relationships are key responsibilities.
The visual appeal of your patent lawyer cover letter: format, font, and structure
When using our cover letter builder, make sure to include these vital sections:
- Header (with your name, contact details, the role, and date);
- Greeting (that's personalized to the recruiter);
- Introductory paragraph (to capture attention);
- Body paragraph (to tell a story of how you've obtained your job-crucial skills);
- Closing paragraph (ending with a nod to the future ahead);
- Signature (that is not a must).
Our cover letter templates are already set up for you with the best patent lawyer cover letter design with single-spaced paragraphs and a one-inch margin.
As for the font of your patent lawyer cover letter, use the same one as you did in your resume (where modern and simple fonts, like Rubik and Bitter, take precedence over Arial and Times New Roman).
Your patent lawyer cover letter is created with the recruiters in mind - as no Applicant Tracker System looks over this part of your profile.
When sending over your patent lawyer cover letter, download it in PDF. This format allows your information and design to stay intact and to keep the same visual quality.
The top sections on a patent lawyer cover letter
Header: This should include the applicant's contact information, date, and the addressee's details; it establishes the formal layout of the cover letter and allows the recruiter to quickly identify and contact the candidate.
Opening Greeting: A targeted greeting to the recruiter or patent law firm demonstrates the candidate’s attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial traits for a patent lawyer.
Introduction: The introduction should succinctly state the applicant's intention to apply for the patent lawyer position and include a brief mention of their legal qualifications and interest in intellectual property law to immediately engage the recruiter’s interest.
Body of the Letter: This section, often subdivided into one or two paragraphs, should elaborate on the candidate’s relevant legal experience, particularly in intellectual property and patent law, detail their proficiency in drafting and prosecuting patents, and show familiarity with USPTO procedures, which are essential skills for the role.
Closing Paragraph and Call to Action: The closing should summarize the candidate’s enthusiasm for the role, reaffirm their qualifications, and include a polite call to action encouraging the recruiter to proceed with an interview, reflecting the advocacy and persuasive skills a patent lawyer must employ.
Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter
- Proficiency in patent law: Mastery of key concepts such as patentability, inventorship, patent prosecution, and infringement analysis is crucial for drafting, filing, and litigating patents effectively.
- Technical or scientific expertise: A background or degree in engineering, biology, chemistry, or a similar field is highly valued for understanding the complexities of patent subject matter and working with inventions.
- Attention to detail: Precision is paramount in patent applications and legal documents to ensure claims are clear, accurate, and defensible.
- Experience with the USPTO: Familiarity with United States Patent and Trademark Office procedures, including patent searches, examinations, and appeals, is essential for navigating the patent process.
- Strong writing and communication skills: The ability to articulate complex legal and technical concepts clearly and persuasively to clients, patent examiners, and in legal proceedings.
- Analytical and strategic thinking: Capability to conduct thorough prior art searches, assess the patent landscape, and formulate robust patent strategies to protect clients' intellectual property effectively.
How to start your patent lawyer cover letter: with a greeting, of course
Have you ever considered just how powerful a personalized salutation can be?
We sure have news for you! Your patent lawyer cover letter should start with the right salutation to recruiters, nurturing a sense of respect and individuality.
Greet recruiters by using their first name (e.g. "Dear Tom" or "Dear Patricia") if you've previously established contact with them.
Otherwise, opt out for the less familiar, "Dear Ms. Peaches" or "Dear Ms Kelsey", if you've found the recruiter's name on LinkedIn or a corporate website.
"To whom it may concern" is never a good option, as it creates a sense that you've been sending out your patent lawyer cover letter to anyone. Instead, use "Dear HR team" or "Dear (company name) recruiter" for a feeling of exclusivity.
List of salutations you can use
- Dear Hiring Manager,
- Dear [Specific Name of the Contact Person],
- Dear [Name of the Firm's Recruiting Coordinator],
- Dear Members of the [Name of the Firm/Department] Team,
- Dear [Mr./Ms./Dr.] [Last Name],
- Dear [Full Name of the Patent Attorney or Partner],
First introductions in your patent lawyer cover letter
Within your patent lawyer cover letter introduction, genuinely state what you like about the organization.
Research the latest company projects, honorary awards, company updates, etc.
Write up to two sentences to let recruiters know what impresses you about the company,
This would help you to set a good tone for the rest of the communication.
Choosing your best achievement for the middle or body of your patent lawyer cover letter
Now that you have the recruiters' attention, it's time to write the chunkiest bit of your patent lawyer cover letter.
The body consists of three to six paragraphs that focus on one of your achievements.
Use your past success to tell a story of how you obtained your most job-crucial skills and know-how (make sure to back these up with tangible metrics).
Another excellent idea for your patent lawyer cover letter's middle paragraphs is to shine a light on your unique professional value.
Write consistently and make sure to present information that is relevant to the role.
Closing remarks to end your patent lawyer cover letter
Of course, you'll have to show gratitude to the recruiters, who have assessed your profile at the end of your patent lawyer cover letter .
A "Thank you for the consideration" would work wonders, instead of the standard "Sincerely yours".
Do you want to make an even better impression?
Close off your patent lawyer cover letter by promising how you see yourself excelling in the role and the positive impact you'd bring about.
A sentence that encourages some further action on the recruiter's end could also be a good way to close off the communication (e.g. provide your availability for an interview).
What could you write about in your patent lawyer cover letter when you have no experience
Candidates with zero professional experience often struggle to write their patent lawyer cover letter.
You may lack experience, but your application could still be impressive when you focus on your strengths.
Consider your most relevant talents (and/or one achievement) that align with the role and help you stand out.
Perhaps you spent every summer volunteering at your local dog pound - think of the job-relevant skills this experience taught you.
Sharing your tangible career goals is another good strategy to stand out.
Key takeaways
Summarizing the most important aspects in writing your patent lawyer cover letter, remember to:
- Create a personalized patent lawyer cover letter for each role you apply for, that includes the recruiter's name in the salutation;
- Format your patent lawyer cover letter with single-spacing, one-inch margins, and a modern, yet ATS-friendly font;
- Always start off your patent lawyer cover letter with two sentences that reflect what is most important about your application;
- Your patent lawyer cover letter body should feature your biggest accomplishments and the job-relevant skills it has taught you;
- Instead of opting for the "Sincerely yours" ending, close your patent lawyer cover letter with a nod to the future with what you aim to achieve in this potential role.