What advice do the legal graduate recruiters give potential candidates.....

I recently attended a networking event for careers advisors where a range of professionals from the legal sector provided an insight in to what they are looking for in potential candidates. Read on to find out more:

• A good academic reference can make a difference.
• Personality is important as is having interests outside of the legal sector.
• It is essential to be commercially aware, know the issues that affect that companies clients, read the relevant business press.
• Interpersonal skills are essential.
• Students need to evidence that they have an in-depth understanding of the type of work they are applying to undertake.
• It's important to say WHY you want to work for a company and how this fits in with your career aspirations. Does this match the companies?
• Your CV should a pattern  of commitment e.g have undertaken relevant modules, work experience, customer service experience.
• A lack of any work experience is a real negative.
• Working in between graduating and starting your LPC can help to focus your career aspirations.
• Interested in criminal law? Have you considered gaining experience as a Police Station Advisor?
• Be able to evidence research and team work skills.
• Do not just consider the high street firms, research organisations with in house lawyers or the Government Legal Service.

UCEE is still open during the summer vacation, contact us on employability@northampton.ac.uk or 01604 892727 to book an appointment with an advisor. Discuss your career options, have your CV checked, book a mock interview and lots more.

Laura Swallow
Careers & Employability Advisor
UCEE