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Secrets To Writing a Winning Legal Resume: Tips for Making an Impression with Employers

published March 16, 2023

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Secrets To Writing a Winning Legal Resume: Tips for Making an Impression with Employers
 
Summary

Are you looking to create a winning resume? Get insights from a top legal recruiter on mastering the five key elements of a successful resume: demonstrating that you can do the job, being managed, showing genuine interest in the position, demonstrating long-term commitment, and making yourself likable. Highlight your relevant experiences and skills, and look for commonalities with the potential employer to make yourself more relatable. With these tips, you’ll be one step closer to landing your dream job.
 
Questions Answered In This Article
  • What are the five key elements of a winning resume?
    Employers look for evidence that you can do the job they’re hiring for, can be managed, want the job, can do the job long-term, and are likable.
  • How can I make my resume stand out?
    Highlight your relevant skills and experiences, demonstrate that you’re a team player who is passionate about the work you’ll be doing, and show employers that you’re committed to the job and have a track record of staying with employers for an extended period. Additionally, try to find commonalities with the potential employer to make yourself more likable and relatable.
  • Where can I get feedback on my resume?
    Harrison offers feedback if job seekers provide him with their resumes through Q&A during his webinars. Additionally, you could reach out to colleagues or career advisors who can provide additional advice and tips.
  • What should I avoid when crafting my resume?
    Avoid using jargon or abbreviations that the employer may not understand and excessive formatting and fonts. This can often turn off employers.
  • How can I make myself more “likable” on my resume?
    Look for commonalities between yourself and the potential employer to make yourself more relatable. This could include experiences, hobbies, values, or interests you have in common with the company. Also, highlight your team-playing skills and show employers you’re dedicated to the job.

A strong legal resume is essential for anyone entering or already in the field of law. Ultimately, creating the perfect document to showcase your qualifications, experience, and skills can help you grab the attention of potential employers and lead you toward an impressive career path. Writing a legal resume can be complicated as various elements, including formatting and presentation, need to be addressed. We’ve created this guide on how lawyers should write their resumes to aid job seekers – from crafting compelling objectives to developing effective cover letters. In this post, we provide tips on writing a winning legal resume designed to make an impression on employers.
 

The Power of Your Resume: How to Make It Stand Out in a Competitive Market

As the competitive job market continues to tighten, it’s more important than ever for job seekers to have resumes that stand out. Harrison Barnes, CEO of BCG Attorney Search, recently hosted a webinar discussing the five lenses through which employers review resumes. Here, we summarize Harrison’s insight for job seekers who want to make a great impression with their resumes.
 

Understanding How Employers View Resumes: A Socratic Approach

When it comes to job hunting, crafting a great resume is key. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the employer is the one who will ultimately decide whether or not to hire you. To make a strong impression, it’s crucial to understand how employers view resumes.

One approach to gaining this understanding is through a Socratic method of questioning and discussion. By examining the tools and methods employers use to review resumes, job seekers can gain insight into what employers are looking for and tailor their resumes accordingly.

According to a legal industry expert, employers generally consider five main factors when reviewing resumes:
 
  1. Can you do the job? This factor is based on your experience and background, and hiring managers will typically categorize candidates into one of five prestige levels based on their previous work history.
  2. Will you do the job long term? Employers want to know if you’re committed to the job and have a track record of staying with previous employers for a significant amount of time.
  3. Can you be managed? This factor refers to your ability to work within a team and take direction from superiors.
  4. Do you want the job? Employers want to see evidence that you’re specifically interested in the position they’re offering rather than just any job.
  5. Do we like you? Finally, employers want to understand your personality and whether you would fit their team and company culture well.
 
Understanding these factors can help job seekers tailor their resumes and cover letters to better match the employer’s needs and preferences. For example, including relevant experience and achievements demonstrating your ability to do the job and a genuine interest in the position can help you stand out.

In addition to tailoring the content of your resume, it’s important to pay attention to formatting and presentation. Ensure your resume is easily read and visually appealing, with clear headings and bullet points highlighting your skills and accomplishments.

By taking a Socratic approach to understanding how employers view resumes, job seekers can improve their chances of making a strong impression and landing their dream job.
 

How to Match Your Experience with Family Law Job Descriptions

If you’re looking for a job in family law, it’s important to understand how to match your experience with the job description. This is because employers seek candidates whose experience closely aligns with the job’s needs. Here are some tips for how to match your experience with family law job descriptions:
 

Understand the different types of law firms.

Law firms are typically ranked between one and five, with one being the most prestigious and five being the least. Each type of law firm will have different clients and require different experience levels. Knowing which type of law firm, you’re applying to is important, and ensuring your experience matches their needs is important.

Read the job description carefully.

Every job has a job description associated with it. The job description will typically include a job title, such as associate counsel or contract attorney, and a list of the required experience. Ensure you read the job description carefully and understand what the employer is looking for in terms of experience.

Highlight relevant experience on your resume.

Once you understand what the prospective employer is looking for, highlight your relevant experience on your resume. This might include experience working on family law cases, experience with relevant legal software, or experience working with specific types of clients.

Customize your cover letter.

Your cover letter is your chance to explain why you’re the best candidate for the job. Make sure you customize your cover letter to the specific job you’re applying for and explain how your experience matches the needs of the job.
 

How Law Firms Evaluate Job Candidates

When law firms evaluate job candidates, they typically ask two key questions: Can you do the job, and will you stay long-term? Answering these questions effectively can make the difference between securing a job offer and being passed over to other candidates.

The first question, “Can you do the job?” is usually about whether your experience and skills match the specific practice area the law firm wants to fill. Most law firms seek specialists with experience in a particular area of law, such as corporate law, litigation, or intellectual property. It’s important to tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific job you’re applying for, emphasizing the relevant experience and skills you have that match the firm’s needs.

When considering candidates, law firms look for evidence of specialization and experience directly relevant to the job. If you have experience in a particular practice area, highlight it on your resume and discuss it in your cover letter. You can also showcase your expertise through blog posts, articles, or other content related to your specialization.

The second question, “Will you stay long-term?” is about the law firm’s investment in your training and development and your commitment to the firm’s culture and values. Law firms invest a significant amount of time and resources in training new associates, and they want to be confident that you will stick around long enough to make that investment worthwhile.

To demonstrate your commitment to a law firm, it’s important to research the firm’s culture, values, and long-term goals. You can do this by reading the firm’s website, following the firm on social media, attending networking events, and talking to current and former employees. It’s also good to ask questions during interviews that show interest in the firm’s culture and values.

When law firms evaluate job candidates, they want to know if you can do the job and if you will stay long-term. To increase your chances of getting hired, emphasize your relevant experience and skills, showcase your expertise through content, and demonstrate your commitment to the firm’s culture and values. By doing so, you can position yourself as a strong candidate who fits the firm’s needs and goals well.
 

How to Create a Resume That Shows You’re Committed to Doing the Job Long-Term in the Legal Industry

When it comes to applying for jobs in the legal industry, creating a resume that shows you are committed to doing the job long-term can greatly increase your chances of getting hired. Law firms are looking for candidates who will stay with the firm and provide consistent, high-quality work for clients over an extended period. Here are some tips for creating a resume that demonstrates your commitment to the legal industry:
 
  1. Emphasize Long-Term Employment: Law firms want to see a history of long-term employment with a single employer, as this suggests that you are committed to staying with an employer for an extended period. If you have had long-term employment with a single employer before law school, highlight this on your resume.
  2. Demonstrate Your Interest in the Legal Industry: Law firms want to hire candidates who are passionate about practicing law and are likely to stick with it long-term. If you have always wanted to work in a law firm or have a strong interest in a particular law area, emphasize this on your resume.
  3. Avoid Job-Hopping: Law firms are wary of candidates with a history of frequently switching jobs. If you have a lot of short-term employment on your resume, focus on the skills and experience you gained from each job rather than the time you spent at each employer.
  4. Highlight Relevant Experience: If you have experience working in a particular area of law or industry, be sure to highlight this on your resume. Law firms are more likely to hire candidates with experience in their specialization areas.
  5. Be Honest: Being honest about your career goals and aspirations on your resume is important. If you are interested in pursuing other career paths or have a history of job-hopping, it’s better to be upfront about it rather than trying to hide it.
 

Can You Be Managed? The Importance of Resume Presentation for Law Firm Hiring

When it comes to law firm hiring, the ability to be managed is a crucial factor that firms consider. While law firms value individual accomplishments and experiences, they also want to ensure that the hiring candidate will likely stick around and work well within a team environment.

One of the ways candidates can showcase their ability to be managed by tailoring their resumes to highlight relevant experiences. For example, suppose a candidate has worked with individuals and small companies and is now looking to work in a larger law firm. In that case, they should emphasize their experience working with companies to show their potential value to the new firm.

However, it is important to be careful with what a resume emphasizes. Firms may be put off by resumes that appear overly political or prioritize personal interests over work experience. For example, a candidate who emphasizes their love of football over their work experience may give the impression that football is more important to them than their clients and work.

Similarly, resumes that emphasize extensive pro bono work or political activities may also be perceived as problematic. While nothing is inherently wrong with either, law firms are primarily interested in hiring candidates who can work well within their organizations and prioritize their client’s needs.

In short, when applying for law firm positions, it is important to present oneself as someone who can be managed and work well within a team environment. Tailoring one’s resume to highlight relevant experiences and downplay personal interests or political affiliations can go a long way in conveying this message to potential employers.
 

The Importance of Being Manageable in the Legal Profession

As a legal recruiter with decades of experience, I have seen numerous examples of lawyers who were not manageable and lost their jobs. In this article, I will discuss the importance of being manageable in the legal profession and provide insights on how to present yourself as a manageable candidate on your resume and during interviews.

Why is being manageable important in the legal profession?

  • Law firms want to hire lawyers who can follow instructions, learn quickly, and work well with others.
  • Unmanageable lawyers can cause issues for law firms, such as failing to complete work on time or undermining the authority of senior attorneys.
  • Being manageable is not just about being subservient but about being a team player willing to learn and adapt to new situations.

How can you present yourself as a manageable candidate?

  • Focus on highlighting your ability to work well with others on your resume. For example, mention teamwork and collaboration skills you have developed in previous roles.
  • Avoid listing accomplishments that may make you appear unmanageable, such as being the first to challenge a senior attorney’s opinion.
  • During interviews, emphasize your willingness to learn and ask questions. Avoid coming across as a know-it-all.
  • Show that you are willing to follow instructions and work on tasks that may not be glamorous or challenging. For example, mention when you took on routine tasks without complaint to help your team.

What are some red flags that may make you appear unmanageable?

  • Having a history of frequent job changes on your resume.
  • Listing complaints or negative comments about previous employers on your resume or during interviews.
  • Highlight your desire for higher compensation without showing a willingness to take on more work or responsibility.
  • Mentioning your business ventures in the past may make it appear that you are not interested in working for others.
Being manageable is crucial to success in the legal profession. By presenting yourself as a team player willing to learn and follow instructions, you can increase your chances of landing a job and thriving in your legal career.
 

How Employers View Your Resume: 5 Key Factors to Consider

Regarding job hunting, one of the most important tools is your resume. This document is a first impression for potential employers and can make or break your chances of landing an interview. But have you ever considered how employers view your resume? Here are five key factors to keep in mind:

Relevant Experience

  • Employers want to see that you have relevant experience in the field you are applying for. This means tailoring your resume to the job you are applying for and highlighting experience directly related to the position. Use industry-specific keywords and provide specific examples of your skills and accomplishments.

Education and Credentials

  • Your education and relevant credentials, such as certifications or licenses, can also be important to employers. Make sure to list your degree, any relevant coursework, and any professional organizations you belong to or certifications you have earned.

Manageability

  • Employers want to hire someone who is easy to manage and will work well with others. This means avoiding language that makes you seem difficult to work with or overly demanding. Instead, focus on highlighting your team-oriented skills and willingness to collaborate.

Enthusiasm for the Job

  • Employers want to hire someone excited about the job and the company. Make sure to personalize your resume to the job you are applying for and express your enthusiasm for the position in your cover letter. This can make all the difference in whether you get the job.

Likability

  • Finally, employers want to hire someone they like. This means being careful not to come across as arrogant or unapproachable. Instead, focus on making yourself likable by highlighting your hobbies or interests, providing examples of your interpersonal skills, and avoiding anything that might be off-putting.
Your resume is a critical tool in your job search, and it’s important to consider how employers view it. By keeping these five key factors in mind, you can ensure your resume stands out and increases your chances of landing that coveted interview.
 

How to Create a Resume that Will Get You Hired

Creating a resume that stands out and gets you hired can be daunting. However, there are key factors to consider that can help you create a winning resume. Here are some important points to keep in mind:
  1. Focus on Relevant Experience: Highlight relevant experience for the job you’re applying for. Avoid including irrelevant experience that may not help show your ability to do the job.

  2. Proofread Your Resume: Typos and other errors can be a deal-breaker for many employers. Use proofreading programs and carefully review your resume for any errors or inconsistencies.
  3. Keep it Simple: Avoid using special colors or distracting graphics on your resume. A clean and simple format can help you stand out and make a professional impression.
  4. Highlight Your Expertise: Employers are looking for experts in their field. Focus on highlighting your expertise in the specific practice area you’re applying for.
  5. Avoid Personal Information: Leave off personal information such as your address or information about private schools or fancy neighborhoods. This can often turn off employers.
 

Mastering the Five Key Elements of a Winning Resume: Insights from a Top Legal Recruiter

Your resume is your first impression when applying for a job. It can make or break your chances of getting hired. That’s why it’s important to master the five key elements of a winning resume. As a legal recruiter with years of experience, I’ve reviewed hundreds of thousands of resumes and realized employers look for specific things when reviewing resumes.

The five key elements that can make your resume stand out are:

Can you do the job?

  • Employers want to hire someone who can do the job they’re hiring for. Ensure your resume reflects the job you’re applying for and highlights your relevant skills and experiences.

Can you be managed?

  • Employers want someone who can be managed and take criticism. Your resume should reflect that you’re a team player and can work well with others.

Do you want the job?

  • Employers want to hire someone genuinely interested in the job. Your resume should show that you’re passionate about the work you’ll be doing.

Can you do the job long-term?

  • Employers want someone who will stick around long-term. Your resume should show that you’re committed to the job and have a track record of staying with employers for an extended period.

Are you likable?

  • Employers want to hire someone they like. Your resume should show that you’re relatable and can fit in with the company culture.

When creating your resume, put yourself in the employer’s shoes and think about what they’re looking for in a candidate. Highlight your relevant experiences and skills, and make sure your resume reflects that you’re a team player committed to the job. Additionally, try to find commonalities with the potential employer to make yourself more likable and relatable.

Job seekers should consider Harrison’s advice when crafting their resumes. By following these five lenses, you can create a resume that stands out from the competition and shows employers why you are a great candidate for the role. Additionally, Harrison can offer feedback if job seekers provide him with their resumes through Q&A during his webinars. With a great resume, you will be one step closer to landing your dream job.
 

See Harrison Barnes discuss this article in full by watching the webinar replay. Click this link to watch it now!

published March 16, 2023

( 5 votes, average: 4.5 out of 5)
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