Legal CV and interview guide

Introduction

The legal, risk and compliance job market has never been more competitive. Whether you’re a newly qualified lawyer, a risk and compliance professional or an experienced General Counsel navigating your next move, standing out from the crowd requires more than just technical expertise. Employers are increasingly seeking candidates who can demonstrate strong commercial awareness, adaptability and a compelling personal brand – starting with a well-structured CV and a confident interview. 

A strong CV is your first opportunity to make an impression, showcasing your skills, experience and potential impact. Meanwhile, an interview is your chance to bring that experience to life, articulate your value and leave a lasting impression on potential employers.  

Understanding what employers look for and how to effectively present yourself is key to securing your next opportunity. Strong interview preparation and knowledge of effective interview techniques can make all the difference in a competitive hiring process. 

At Taylor Root, we have spent over 35 years advising legal, risk and compliance professionals at all levels on how to successfully navigate the legal recruitment process. Drawing on our expertise, we’ve created this comprehensive guide to help you with the following:  

• How to structure your associate lawyer CV 
• Interview preparation  
• The STAR method  
• Competency-based interviews  
• Top tips for virtual interviews 
• The benefits of using a legal recruiter
• How to resign: steps, tips and template
• Why you should think twice before accepting a counter offer

From structuring your CV to mastering the competency-based interview approach, this guide covers every stage of your legal, risk and compliance career journey. Follow the insights and strategies outlined in the chapters ahead to give yourself the best possible chance of success and take the next step in your career. 

Next chapter: How to structure your associate lawyer CV