Legal Education: How to Stand Out

With the law degree being very popular, securing a pupillage or contract is quite competitive. In this crowded law sector, you need to stand out from the rest. Here are things you can do to stay ahead of the competition.

1. Develop Commercial Know-How

If you want to be a lawyer, it is paramount that you understand the business environment in which law firms operate. While it may be hard for a young law student with minimal life experience to demonstrate commercial knowledge to high standards, remember learning this is a gradual process. There are various resources to help you. Read the news to get facts and gain a bigger perspective on the happenings in the business world. Consider taking law examinations and obtaining certifications in order to boost your stock as a prospect and to get acquainted with the professional world. However, you must be wary about the different exams and certifications, as they vary state by state. For instance, the Louisiana CLE exam may be a bit different than the Tennessee CLE. You can also follow news outlets on social media or download news apps to get news on the go.

2. Partake in Extracurricular Activities

Interests and hobbies allow prospective employers to know you as an individual. Practicing your hobbies will also help you build confidence and promote the development of essential skills like teamwork. Remember, you don’t need to pursue very challenging activities to stand out. Pursue activities about which you are passionate. It could be sports or even collecting science fiction comics. Whatever your hobby is, it’s a way you distinguish yourself from the rest.

3. Free Advice Law Centre

Volunteering at law centers is an excellent way of developing new skills. You gain firsthand experience with the real-life application of the law and how it affects people and learn essential skills like interviewing clients, extracting relevant information, and how to help clients. You will also gain a deep level of satisfaction when you help people. Most law centers rely on the help they get from volunteers, and therefore’ a way for you to network with other volunteers.

4. Attend Law Fairs and Be aware

It’s always good to start networking early. Attending law fairs will give you a better understanding of what law firms offer. As a law student, join relevant groups or organizations that will aid you in developing an awareness of the happenings in the legal sector. Talking to knowledgeable people about the various issues linked to the law will build your confidence and improve how you present yourself in an interview.

5. Be Professional on Social Media

Using social media wisely and keeping up with professional trends will make you stand out. Start by updating your LinkedIn and include links to the work you’ve accomplished. Keep your Twitter and other social media professionals as well because potential employers may check these as well. Check your feed and delete what needs to be deleted. Ensure you stand out on all your social media for positive reasons.

6. Dress Sharp

Most law schools do not have a professional dress code, but you need to look professional. You don’t have to do a suit; at least a business casual is often a norm in many law schools. You will feel awkward if you attend classes in pajamas while your professor and fellow students are dressed professionally. Some professors may feel offended and develop biases on students who dress too casually or who don’t dress sharp. Also, the law school environment can be a great place to network with guest lecturers and alumni (usually practicing law professionals), and are often eager to talk with random students they encounter on campus.

7. Blogs and Vlogs

Writing blogs is an excellent way to build your writing skills; you learn to adapt your writings for your target audience. Writing allows you to research particular subjects, reflect on personal experiences, improve your communication skills and your ability to form arguments and conclusions. These are the highly sought-after skills by law firms. You can also take advantage of YouTube and vlog about your experiences in law, life, and law, and the success of your videos will help build your brand.

Despite its competitive nature, the law profession is quite exciting to study and practice. As an aspiring lawyer, you will need to secure CV-enhancing skills to stand out from the crowd. Try to acquire these skills while still in law school – you will graduate ready for the job market.