Your CV is one of the most important tools in your job search. It gives employers their first impression of your skills, experience and potential, so taking the time to get it right can make a real difference.

A strong CV should be clear, professional and tailored to the role you’re applying for. Here are five practical tips to help you create a CV that stands out.

Keep the format simple

Recruiters often spend only a few seconds reviewing a CV before deciding whether to keep reading. A clean, well-structured layout makes it easier for employers to quickly find the information they’re looking for.

Use a simple font, clear headings and consistent formatting throughout. Avoid unnecessary graphics, colours, tables or decorative borders that can distract from your content.

Highlight your most relevant experience

Place your education and experience in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent. If you’re a law student or graduate, your education should appear near the top of your CV.

If you’ve completed Practical Legal Training, include it under your education. Your professional placement can be listed under a dedicated Legal Experience section, alongside any clerkships, internships, volunteer work or other legal experience.

Tailor your CV for every application

A generic CV rarely performs as well as one that’s tailored to the role.

Review the job advertisement carefully and highlight the experience, skills and achievements that are most relevant. Small adjustments to your profile, experience and key skills can help demonstrate why you’re a strong fit for the position.

Show more than your academic results

Employers are interested in more than your grades. Include work experience, volunteering, extracurricular activities, languages and achievements that demonstrate your communication, teamwork, leadership and problem-solving skills.

If you’ve worked outside the legal profession, don’t underestimate the value of that experience. Many transferable skills are highly regarded by legal employers.

Proofread before you apply

A CV with spelling mistakes, inconsistent formatting or incorrect information can leave a poor first impression.

Before submitting your application, review your CV carefully and ask someone you trust to proofread it. Taking the time to check the details demonstrates professionalism and attention to detail—qualities every employer values.

Your CV is always evolving

Your CV shouldn’t be something you only update when you’re applying for a job. Keep it current by adding new experience, achievements and skills as you progress through your studies and legal career.

A well-maintained CV makes it easier to apply for new opportunities as they arise and ensures you’re always ready for the next step in your legal career.