How to structure your CV

Did you know that, on average, recruiters spend just 75 seconds reviewing your CV? This means you have just over a minute to capture their attention and highlight your strengths.

Crafting an effective CV is challenging. In fact, three-quarters of CVs are rejected due to poor grammar, spelling errors, or a subpar visual layout. So, what makes for a successful job application?

Here are our top tips for structuring your Associate Lawyer CV to help you stand out and get noticed by legal recruiters and law firms.

Overview?The main objective of your CV is to secure an interview by making a strong impression before you even meet the interviewer. Given the high volume of applications, it's crucial to keep your CV brief and impactful.

Your CV should be professional, business-like, and easy to read, focusing on your key achievements and aligning with the role you’re applying for.

Structure?We recommend dividing your CV into four key sections:

1. Personal Information
2. Qualifications
3. Employment History
4. Interests

Personal Information?Include your contact details:

• Full name
• Full address
• Telephone numbers (day/evening/mobile, as appropriate)
• Email address

If relevant, state your eligibility to work or if you require a work permit. Always include any language capabilities and state your honest proficiency.

Qualifications?List your law degree, whether it’s a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or Juris Doctor (JD). Include the type of bachelor’s degree or higher education you earned, graduation dates, and the name of the institution.

Don't forget to mention any professional certifications. Employers also value work-related training that results in certifications.

Employment History?List your most recent role first, clearly stating the dates, job title, size, responsibilities, and achievements in that role. Focus on your most recent job and allocate more space to it.

If the company is not well-known, provide a brief description of its business. Include the month and year for starting and ending each job, with your current position listed as "to date."

Account for any gaps in employment and be prepared to explain them in an interview. Avoid listing reasons for leaving previous jobs; save that information for the interview.

Be honest about your experience and accomplishments. Leave salary information off the CV, but be ready to discuss it with recruiters. Use technical or professional jargon only when necessary.