Judging from the number of CV’s and general emails the firm I work in is getting from potential trainees and law students aiming for a training contract, it must be that time of year again. I refer to the autumn period where firms start having open evenings and coffee morning – asking potential trainees to attend to explain why they should all fight for the limited spaces they offer for them to “slog it out” in order to land a rare and valuable training contract. Trying to obtain a training contract has always been a skill in itself with more people applying for the limited places there are. They are highly competitive and as time has went on, it is not as simple as just sending your CV, having an interview and hopefully obtaining one. Yes, crafting a standout CV is crucial to getting noticed and getting a foot in the door, but most firms now have tests you need to do, interviews in 3 or 4 stages and what would feel like some kind of psychological evaluation just to get an offer, never mind the fact that it all hinges on successfully passing the Institute exam in Northern Ireland.
Thankfully there are still some firms, who go on the old CV basis which is where it all starts. You need to get this right to even get a response or get noticed. So here are a few tips which I found useful and hopefully you will too.
1. Start with a Strong Profile Summary
Your profile summary is your introduction to your potential firm for the next number of years who are going to take you under their wings and spend time and money on you. Use it to briefly showcase your motivations, experience, and core competencies. Think of it as a mini-elevator pitch that emphasises your passion for law and commitment to a legal career as well as any would be firm who will take you on. If they are going to invest in you, you need to show some loyalty and willingness to stay with them for a short while and give something back. For example:
“I am a motivated individual with a keen interest in corporate law and a solid foundation in contract and tort law. I am skilled in legal research, with practical experience in client-facing roles and I am committed.”
Be concise but memorable. Tailor this summary to highlight specific skills or areas of law relevant to the firm’s practice. Off course you need to make it relevant to you and there is plenty of room to “jazz” it up.
2. Highlight Relevant Experience
While trainee roles often focus on learning, firms value prior experience that demonstrates your interest and initiative in the legal field. Emphasise:
• Legal Internships or Work Placements: List any relevant legal roles, including summer placements, paralegal work, or shadowing experiences. Focus on specific tasks, like conducting research, drafting documents, or attending client meetings, that showcase your skills.
• Transferable Experience: If your background includes other types of work (e.g., retail, service industry), highlight skills that translate to a legal environment. Examples include customer service, attention to detail, and handling sensitive information.
• Pro Bono Work or Volunteering: Many firms value commitment to social justice. If you have volunteered with a legal aid clinic, been part of a student-led legal advice organisation, or taken part in community initiatives, mention it to illustrate your dedication.
3. Emphasise Academic Achievements and Awards
Academic excellence is still highly valued, especially at the trainee level. If you received high marks in law-related courses, or if your dissertation or project focused on a relevant topic, mention it. Any awards, scholarships, or recognitions should also be highlighted, as they demonstrate hard work, knowledge, and commitment.
4. Showcase Legal Skills and Technical Competencies
Firms want to know that you’re already building a robust skill set. Focus on:
• Legal Research and Analysis: Outline your familiarity with legal databases (such as LexisNexis or Westlaw), case law research, and document review. Provide examples of any coursework or projects that required these skills.
• Writing and Drafting: Legal drafting is a key skill. If you’ve drafted documents in past roles or as part of your studies, such as legal memos, client letters, or even case summaries, include these examples to showcase your writing abilities.
• Attention to Detail and Organisation: Law firms value accuracy. If you have experience proofreading, editing, or handling complex documents, mention this to show your ability to manage the precision required in legal work.
5. Include Extracurricular Activities and Interests
Your personal interests and hobbies provide insight into your character and can help you stand out. Activities that demonstrate teamwork, leadership, or commitment to ongoing learning are especially valuable. Examples include:
• Debate or Mooting: If you participated in mooting competitions or a debate club, list these experiences to demonstrate public speaking, argumentation, and critical thinking skills.
• Student Society Roles: Mention any leadership roles, such as serving as a member of a law society or organising events. These roles show your initiative and teamwork abilities.
• Additional Certifications or Courses: If you’ve taken additional courses, such as online classes in contract law or specific legal software training, highlight these to show a commitment to skill development.
6. Tailor Your CV for Each Application
Generic CVs often fall flat. Tailor each CV specifically for the firm you’re applying to. Research the firm’s practice areas, values, and recent cases, and adjust your CV to show how your background aligns with their needs. For example, if applying to a firm specialising in corporate law, emphasise your knowledge and interest in commercial law.
7. Perfect the Presentation and Formatting
Make your CV easy to read, professional, and visually appealing. Use consistent formatting, a clean layout, and bullet points to make key information stand out. Ensure your font is professional and that the CV doesn’t exceed two pages.
Consider using these sections:
• Contact Information
• Profile Summary
• Education
• Relevant Experience
• Legal Skills
• Additional Experience
• Extracurricular Activities
• Interests
8. Proofread and Get Feedback
Errors can undermine an otherwise strong CV. Proofread multiple times and, if possible, ask a mentor, career advisor at University, a solicitor you know or friend to review it. Simple mistakes can make a poor impression, so ensure your CV is polished and error-free.
Final Thoughts
Your CV is your first chance to make an impression, so make it count. Be strategic, emphasise your strengths, and show the firm that you’re more than just a capable candidate—you’re a future solicitor with the drive to excel.
Often in Northern Ireland we tend to undersell ourselves and be too modest. Off course there is a balance, but don’t be afraid to tell it as it is and if you have things to be proud of which highlight just how good you are, promote them and emphasise them. Don’t be shy – NO-ONE ELSE WILL BE!