An Effective Paralegal Resume Can Help Jump-Start Your Legal Career in A Variety of Industries

An Effective Paralegal Resume Can Help Jump-Start Your Legal Career in A Variety of Industries

There are very few fields that are as rewarding as Law. Whether you are an interested in working for a Prosecutor, Defense Counsel, Corporate Lawyer, Litigator, or Transactional Attorney, all of these fields have something in common, they all require a Paralegal to support them. Unlike an attorney who must pass the State Bar of the state they would like to practice law in, no formal education is required to become an entry-level paralegal other than dedication, attention-to-detail, and thick skin...very thick skin. But, for those who can handle working in a deadline-driven, intense environment, a career as a paralegal may be the treasure at the end of the rainbow. It is crucial that your paralegal resume shines. Why? Because unlike other fields, a resume for the Legal field serves an additional purpose - it is your writing sample. It tells the hiring partner - Do you understand the basics of grammar? Are you concise? Is your writing streamlined, yet informative?

These few tips will help you in achieving a successful career as a Paralegal:

Spell-check and Grammar Check: It always pains me to include this tip, because inevitably, someone will point out a grammar or spelling mistake in my writing. But, since I'm no longer a practicing attorney, I get a pass. With that said, PLEASE spell-check and grammar check your resume and cover letter. You have to realize, the documents you are preparing and revising for your attorney will be submitted to courts, tribunals, opposing counsel, etc. And, although the document will probably have the attorney's name it, you will prepare/revise it. Almost every attorney I ever met has one thing in common...EGO. No attorney wants to look sloppy in front of his or her peers. Therefore, make sure your resume and cover letter are meticulous, it will be a first great impression!

Show Interest: How can you show an attorney you are interested in a career as a paralegal if you have no experience? Easy, take courses. There are several online community college courses that are inexpensive and can be taken at your own pace. I understand that life moves pretty quick, and while it may be nearly impossible for you to find the time, you have to find the time. You can take the courses online on the weekend at your own convenience. Let me state this another way: Did you know that a certified paralegal for a top law firm can make 6 figures a year. Now can you find the time?

Be Honest: Every lawyer spent 3 years in law school and passed the bar exam - no small feat. Attorneys are programmed to evaluate and assess facts and use them to draw conclusions. Presumably they will check your references and employment history. Therefore, don't lie. Nobody starts at the top. Even the most successful paralegals usually started by working for a small operation. If necessary, hire a resume service that focuses in paralegal resumes to assist you in the process.

Good Luck!

vigoro sprinkler timer

Jump Start Your Career As a Professional Speaker

Jump Start Your Career As a Professional Speaker

Professional speaking is an excellent career choice for those who want the flexibility of a freelance lifestyle along with the lucrative returns from a high-paying career. Are there any keys or secrets to "jump starting" a professional speaking career?

Whether you are using professional speaking as a strategy to boost an already successful career, or whether you are seeking to build a speaking business in its own right, you will want to keep in mind these three keys for jump starting your professional speaking career.

Your speaking career will really "take off" if you focus on knowing your audience, mastering your presentation skills, and marketing your speaking services effectively.

1. Know Your Audience

In speaking to any group of people, your goal is to inform, persuade or entertain them. To do this effectively you need to carefully consider who the audience is before you present to them. What is their background and level of experience? What are their interests, their likes and dislikes?

Learn as much about the audience as possible as this will directly influence what you decide to say and how you say it.

2. Master Your Presentation Skills

In order to become an "in demand" professional speaker, you must learn to truly master presentation skills. You can improve your presentation skills from personal coaching, or even from books and videos, and from being part of a speaking organization such as Toastmasters.

Don't forget that good preparation is always essential for professional speakers. Practice, practice, practice. Then practice some more. You should know your material by heart in order to ensure a good delivery, every time.

3. Marketing Your Speaking Services

If you want to grow your speaking business then you must arrange your marketing package like a professional. Hire a photographer to take a good photograph, preferably a headshot. Now use that photograph on your business cards, on a web site, and with your information sheet. Put together an attractive marketing package including some client testimonials and one or two video clips.

Also, don't turn down speaking engagements just because they are non-paying. When you are starting out - and even later on - speaking for free for charities or non-profit organizations will prove to be valuable in the end. It helps the organization and it also adds to your experience and gives you more client testimonials. These events are also an excellent opportunity for networking. And you might even make a little something from 'back of the room' sales of your books, tapes, workbooks and other materials.

If you really want to jump start your career as a professional speaker then remember these three essential components. They will truly make a strong impact on your audience.

kestrel road bikes