In the highly competitive legal industry, your CV is the passport to your next career opportunity. It represents more than just a list of your qualifications and experiences; it’s a pivotal tool that can either open doors to interviews or lead to missed opportunities. Understanding what decision-makers look for in a CV is crucial, especially when studies, such as one conducted by TheLadders, reveal that decision makers and recruiters spend an average of just 6 seconds on an initial scan. This statistic underlines the importance of immediately highlighting key information that captures their attention.
The most frustrating scenario is witnessing talented legal professionals, potentially the best in their fields, being overlooked due to poorly structured CVs. Overcomplication, lack of clarity, and failing to highlight the most relevant information succinctly can significantly hinder your job search.
What Do Decision Makers Look for in a CV?
In those vital few seconds, decision makers are scanning for:
1. Where You Currently Work: Listing your current position gives an indication of your experience level and the environments you’ve thrived in.
2. Your Specialisation: Clearly articulate the area of law you specialise in. A common mistake is listing transactions or cases without specifying your legal expertise area. Make it clear what area of law you focus on and type of work you do within that field. Decision makes need to see what area of law you are an expert in.
3. Educational Background: Your academic achievements lay the groundwork for your expertise. Include your educational institutions, degrees obtained, and any honors or distinctions that set you apart. This information often acts as a benchmark of your foundational knowledge and skill set.
In addition to these critical elements, ensuring your CV includes quantifiable achievements, a tailored professional summary, and a layout conducive to quick scanning can make a significant difference. These components should be prominently placed on the first page of your CV, alongside a brief executive summary of your background.
Increasing Your CV’s Impact
If you pass the “Six Second Test” a decision maker will then dig deeper into your CV. Make sure the following are included:-
1. Quantifiable Achievements: Highlight specific, measurable outcomes from your career to demonstrate your impact and value directly.
2. Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV for the role you’re applying for, showcasing relevant experience and skills.
3. Professional Summary: A compelling summary at the top of your CV can effectively grab attention, summarising your expertise and the unique value you bring.
4. Relevant Skills and Technologies: Especially pertinent in specialised fields, listing relevant technical skills and software proficiency can set you apart. Include and soft skills such as leadership, teamwork. Communication etc
5. Professional Development: Showcasing ongoing learning and development efforts illustrates your commitment to staying at the forefront of legal practice.
Conclusion
Your CV is more than a document; it’s a strategic tool in your job search arsenal. By focusing on clarity, relevance, and strategic presentation, you can ensure that your CV not only passes the initial scan test but also positions you as a prime candidate for the opportunities you seek. Remember, the goal is to secure an interview by making those first few seconds count.
#CV #CVtips #law #lawjobs #legalcareers
By Liam Mooney
Founder, Blue Pencil
