One question that many law students have is how to prepare a CV that catches a recruiter’s attention. With so many things that can be included, such as internships, moot court competitions, research papers, publications, positions of responsibility, certifications, and extracurricular activities, it is often difficult to know what is actually important.
Many students are also unsure about how to present their experiences, what to include, what to leave out, and how to make their CV stand out among hundreds of applications.
From a recruiter’s point of view, what makes a good CV? What should law students include, what common mistakes should they avoid, and what advice would you give to someone preparing their CV for internship applications?
Dear Learner,
Bridging the gap between academic training and contemporary market expectations remains one of the primary hurdles for law graduates entering the profession. However, legal recruiters consistently look for specific, foundational pillars when reviewing any Curriculum Vitae (CV).
To ensure your profile stands out in a competitive market, focus on highlighting the following key areas:
- Moot Court Experience- Active engagement in moot court competitions serves as a strong indicator of robust legal research, structured drafting, and persuasive oral advocacy. These competencies are indispensable, whether you choose to pursue a career in active litigation or corporate practice.
- Publications and Academic Writing- Authoring research papers and securing publications demonstrates academic rigor, analytical depth, and a commitment to legal scholarship. This quality is particularly valuable if you aim to transition into policy research, governmental advisory roles, or institutional clerkships.
- Co-Curricular & Extra-Curricular Engagement- These activities can be broadly categorized into academic pursuits (such as debating, judgment writing, or mediation) and performing arts. Excellence in debating, for instance, underscores command over language, quick analytical thinking, and the poise vital for an advocate.
Here are few more things to keep in mind,
- Tailor to the Job Description: It is crucial to align your credentials with the specific mandate of the role. The core competencies required of a transactional Associate at a law firm differ substantially from those expected of an in-house Corporate Counsel.
- Brevity is Key: Keep your CV precise, structured, and scannable. Avoid dense, lengthy paragraphs. Instead, utilize a targeted Cover Letter to contextualize your key achievements and articulate your specific value proposition for the role.
- ATS Optimization: Modern legal recruitment increasingly relies on automated screening. Before submitting, leverage online tools to check your CV’s Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) score, ensuring your formatting and keywords align with digital screening standards.
By treating your CV as a brief that advocates for your capabilities, you will significantly improve your chances of securing that crucial first interview.
Wishing you the very best.
(*The professional designation and organisation mentioned are provided solely for identification purposes. The views and opinions expressed are strictly personal and do not represent those of the organisation or employer.*)
