Resume Content
A resume has standard components that allow you to sell yourself and your ability to perform professionally. In summary form, they include:
- Name and address - Use your proper name, not nicknames. Be sure to include a current permanent address with phone number(s). A temporary address should be included if applicable. If your resume extends to a second page, be sure to put your name and address at the top.
- Email address - include your current, professional, email address at which you can be reached.
- Education - Include your legal, graduate and undergraduate degrees, honors and activities with appropriate dates. Do this in reverse chronological order.
- Employment Experiences - In reverse chronological order list jobs that you have held. Emphasize any legal work experiences that you have had as well as non-legal, military, volunteer or internship positions.
- Special Skills and Licenses - Your unique skills and licensure may give you an edge in the job search. Fluency in a second language, a C.P.A. designation, a pilot's license, or a teaching licensure, all may have a positive effect on your opportunity to get an interview opportunity.
- Professional Organizations and Publications - Provide any professional activity in which you participated as a law, graduate or undergraduate student. Be specific and list titles, offices held, dates of the activity, etc.
- References - Some experts state that you must include references; others indicate this is optional and you should make them available on request. Contact the employer if in doubt as to their preference. If that is not possible, include on a separate page three to four references with title, complete address, and phone numbers. Make sure you obtain their permission first so they are expecting to be contacted. If at all possible, include at least one law professor who is familiar with your work and academic achievements.
