Crafting an Impressive CV

Make your first impression count.

It’s often the first thing potential employers see, so getting the CV right before applying for your next job is critical.

A well-crafted CV should clearly highlight your responsibilities and achievements, showcasing the value you can bring to their organisation and legal team.

Eight tips to make your CV stand out from the crowd:

  1. Keep it professional:

    Some CVs are too complicated in layout — multiple colours, unnecessary graphics, and cluttered sections. Stick to a clean and professional design. The focus should be on the content, not the visuals.

  2. Include a personal statement:

    Start your CV with a brief personal statement that summarizes who you are and what you bring to the table. Keep it concise, focused, and relevant to the job you're applying for.

  3. Don’t over do it:

    Your CV should be easy to read. Avoid long paragraphs and use bullet points to break up sections. Stick to 1-2 pages by focusing on relevant experience and cutting unnecessary details.

  4. Highlight achievements, not just responsibilities:

    Employers want to know how you’ve made an impact. Instead of listing only tasks, highlight your accomplishments. Use quantifiable results where possible (e.g., “Provided legal oversight for the company’s expansion into three new international markets (UK, U.S, and Canada) ” “led legal efforts on a €5M Series A funding round”).

  5. Showcase Your Specialism:

    If you have experience in niche or specialist legal areas listed in the job advertisement, highlight these early in your CV. Mention your expertise in areas such as GDPR, Financial Regulations, IP, or Capital Markets in your personal statement or introduction. If you’re a generalist with the ability and appetite to dive into any topic, write about that.

  6. Streamline early experience:

    Prioritize recent and relevant roles. For experienced lawyers, early career roles or internships may hold less weight. Focus on your most recent and impactful positions, highlighting significant achievements, and industry expertise. Briefly mention older roles if they add value, but avoid overloading your CV with outdated details.

  7. Tailor it for each position:

    One size doesn’t fit all. Customise your CV to the specific job you’re applying for. Use the job description as a guide, ensuring your skills and experiences align with what the employer is looking for.

  8. Don’t forget the basics:

    Make sure your CV includes the essentials: contact details, education, and professional experience. Double-check for any typos or errors—attention to detail is crucial.

Remember, your CV reflects your professional journey and the value you bring to the table. Take the time to craft it thoughtfully, and it will be the key to unlocking your next opportunity.