The foundation for getting that dream legal job is accumulating experience. One of the first real-world challenges you’ll face as a law student is finding a job. In the legal services sector, work experience is crucial for a career in law.
The job search is no one’s favourite task. You have to go through endless job posts, while the lack of experience disperses your chances for applying at many of them.
The process isn’t easy, that’s the fact. However, it can become easier if you know what you should do to get the job you desire.
Step 1: Write an impressive CV
Every job search starts with a CV. Writing a spotless CV can be the toughest part, so you want to get that done first.
Here are a few key tips to writing a CV that will grab the attention of law firm recruiters:
- Keep it concise (1-2 page)
- Make it visually appealing (a clean design with clear structure works best)
- List only relevant skills (creative problem-solving, IT skills, interpersonal skills, negotiation skills, etc.)
- Include non-legal work experience that brought you useful transferable skills
- Support your list of skills with evidence (for example, being the captain of a sports team taught you leadership)
- Add an academic or professional reference
- Get someone to read your CV and assess its readability
You can check out this post if you want more detailed tips on how to write a spotless lawyer-to-be CV.
Step 2: Write a short and direct cover letter
The cover letter is a more personal aspect of your application. It allows you to express yourself and convince the employees that you are the one.
The common mistake you want to avoid is writing a long and vague cover letter. Stick to a short and direct format.
Use the cover letter to address the following:
- What provoked your interest in that law firm in particular
- What are your best skills and characteristics
- What makes you a good fit for that law firm (focus on how you can benefit the company)
Make sure that you thoroughly research the law firm you are applying for. Do they have quality training? Are they listed in The Legal 500? Mentioning specifically why you chose that firm can help you stand out.
Step 3: Polish up your LinkedIn profile
You need to stay up to date with the job searching trends. One of them is building your online presence.
LinkedIn is the most popular network for professionals with great networking opportunities. Not rarely do recruiters spend their time on this platform, eyeing the right candidate. You can also use the platform to actively look for a job.
If you don’t have a LinkedIn profile, now is the time to make one. If you do have it, perfect your profile and get it ready for action.
Step 4: Carefully Read the job descriptions
The job description can reveal information that can help you apply for jobs more successfully. Don’t underestimate the power of detailed reading.
For example, pay attention to the skills listed in the description. If you have those skills, list them in the CV. Presenting in your application the same skills the law firm stated in the description will make you the perfect match.
Step 5: Personalise your applications
Tailor your application to different employers. If you want to make a strong impression, there is no getting around personalisation.
Employers can prioritise different skills or experiences. Align your CV, cover letter, and application form to individual jobs.
Even simple reorganisation of information can improve your chances of getting hired. The information at the top gets the most attention, so reorder your lists to suit specific employer’s requirements.
Let the search begin!
We’ve covered the theoretical part of a law work-experience job search, now you have to take care of the practical part. Once you prepare everything you need, you’ll feel more confident. Remember to take it one step at a time, and you’ll get the job you want.
Author Kristin Savage is a blogger, technical writer, and editor. She has vast writing experience in fields such as technology, law, education, and more. She works as an editor for the https://subjecto.com/essay-samples/ database. Kristin regularly attends conferences to stay updated with the newest trends.
