Further reading There is a wealth of useful application advice on LawCareers.Net – type ‘application’ and ‘interview’ in the search bar for comprehensive guidance on every stage of the process.
CVs If one of your target firms or sets requires a CV rather than its own form, use this to your advantage. Unlike application forms, a CV gives you the chance to create your own personal record of achievements in a format that you control. The content of your CV should comprise the following: • Personal details – include your name, address, telephone number and email address. Nationality and date of birth are optional. • Education and qualifications – set out your most recent achievements in detail. • Work experience/employment history – use reverse chronological order. Show the dates of work experience, including the name of the employer and the town/city it is based in. Mention any work experience, including any voluntary and seemingly less relevant jobs (eg, bar work shows you have experience of a customer/client-facing role and working under pressure). • Other skills and interests – non-academic skills include leadership, teamwork, flexibility, judgement, commercial awareness, imagination, adventurousness and diligence. They are often best illustrated and reflected through cultural, social, sporting, travel and independent activities and hobbies. But remember, the facts must ultimately support your application to become a lawyer. In particular, non-law graduates should highlight any legal work experience that they have to prove their commitment to law. • References – it is standard practice to include two references: one academic and one relating to work experience or general character. Check with your intended referees in advance that it’s okay to mention them and offer to send them a copy of your application.
Reality check: A key point when applying: tell the truth. Seems obvious, but sometimes it’sworth reiterating, as one barrister we spoke to emphasised: “Don’t lie and don’t write about things that you don’t knowanything about. If you are caught out, it is incredibly embarrassing and the end of your chance of a pupillage.”
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