Tip # 1 – Create a resume that is clear, concise, uncluttered and includes pertinent information such as your grade point average and class rank.  Be aware that employers will scrutinize the candidate’s academic credentials and that grades from a top-tiered law school may be given more value that the same grades from a lower-tiered law school.  Oftentimes employers will completely ignore resumes that fail to reference the candidate’s class rank and grades.

Tip #2 – Do your homework on the law firm.  Make sure that the firm specializes in the type of law you want to practice.  Failing to do your homework could result in your application for the job being dismissed. For example, a family law firm may frown upon a candidate who says he wants to work in criminal law; but has submitted a resume with them. Also be prepared to talk about the specific accomplishments of the law firm with whom you are applying. Can you discuss recent cases they won that had some publicity? Can you talk about a recent article written by one of their associates?  If so, this will go a long way in impressing the employer.

Tip# 3 – Take the time to provide the employer with a very strong writing example.  Employers will look for writing samples that prove the candidate can provide detailed legal analysis and can deliver the information in a concise, organized and comprehensible way. Usually several people will review the candidate’s writing sample and if a consensus of reviewers find that the candidate’s writing sample is lacking, they have very little chance of landing the job.