As the competition for in-house legal positions intensifies, crafting a standout resume is crucial. As executive search consultants specializing in in-house placements, we've seen what catches the eye of corporate legal departments.
Here are key strategies to help your resume rise above the rest:
Tailor your resume to the specific role:
Generic resumes rarely impress. Customize your resume for each application, highlighting experiences and skills most relevant to the position.
2 pager or a detailed resume?
Ask your recruiter! Every hiring manager is different and has different tastes. Your headhunter can ask the hiring manager for their preferences and advise you to tweak your resume accordingly.
Lead with a strong professional summary:
Craft a concise, powerful summary that encapsulates your unique value proposition. This is your elevator pitch – make it count.
Quantify your achievements:
Don't just list responsibilities; showcase results. Use metrics to show how your legal work has positively affected the company's bottom line. For example:
· Reduced contract turnaround time by 30% through process improvements.
· Negotiated contracts resulting in $2M cost savings
· Reduced litigation expenses by 25% through improved risk management practices
· Successfully negotiated and closed a $250M SaaS deal.
In-house legal departments often operate under tight budgets. Highlight any experience in managing legal spend or implementing cost-saving measures.
Emphasize business acumen & cross-functional collaboration:
Companies want lawyers who understand their business. Highlight experiences where you've contributed to business strategy or worked closely with business units. Include any commercial or operational roles you've held. Provide examples of successful partnerships with non-legal teams like finance, HR, or marketing.
Demonstrate leadership and management experience:
If you're aiming for a senior role, showcase your ability to lead and develop teams. Add a pointer around the number of lawyers you have managed, which regions/ functions did they cover. Include examples of managing outside counsel if applicable.
Highlight relevant technical skills:
Proficiency in contract management systems, e-discovery tools, or data analytics can be a significant advantage. Don't forget to mention these skills.
Emphasize compliance and risk management:
With increasing regulatory complexity, companies value lawyers with strong compliance backgrounds. Highlight your experience in developing or improving compliance programs.
Remember, an in-house resume should demonstrate not just your legal expertise, but also your ability to be a strategic business partner. Your goal is to show how you can add value beyond traditional legal advice.
By following these tips, you'll create a resume that speaks directly to the needs and expectations of corporate legal departments, significantly improving your chances of landing that coveted in-house position.