How to stand out in a competitive legal job market in 2025
The legal job market remains highly competitive in 2025, especially for public sector professionals, and at Sellick Partnership we’re noticing that standing out from the crowd is more important than ever.
For many legal professionals, the job hunting process can be stressful, which is why you may be looking to refine your strategy and increase your chances of landing a new role – or even your first role! As someone who works closely with clients and candidates in this field, there are a few insights that can really help you rise above the rest.
Partner with a skilled recruitment agency
My first piece of advice might not come as a surprise. We’re a recruitment agency so of course we’re going to suggest partnering with a skilled recruiter. But this is genuinely one of the most impactful ways to give yourself an edge in a competitive market.
Many people have misconceptions about recruiters – we’re sometimes seen as the ‘middlemen’ just passing on CVs to clients. But the reality is quite different. A skilled recruiter can be your greatest ally, particularly when you’re working with someone who has direct relationships with hiring managers and decision-makers, it’s not just about submitting a CV through a website and hoping for the best.
We know our clients well, we understand what they’re really looking for, and we can get your application in front of them ahead of the pack – sometimes even before a job is publicly posted. That really can make all the difference.
Not only that but a good recruiter can help you pitch yourself in the best way – even doing some of it for you!
Tailor your CV for the role
Focusing on your CV is essential and it’s much more than just listing your experience. Tailor your CV to the job you’re applying for and read the job description to help you do that – making sure your skills and achievements align with what the employer is seeking.
Showcase your strengths, whether that’s your expertise in a specific area of law, your problem-solving abilities, or your leadership skills. A generic CV is rarely going to stand out in today’s market and this is where a recruitment partner can really add value; knowing exactly what clients are looking for in order to provide advice and suggestions on tailoring.
Leverage professional networks
CV aside, one of the other aspects to consider is networking, critical in the legal profession – particularly for those who have recently qualified. It’s easy to overlook how important it is to engage with others, whether that’s through LinkedIn or by attending events, virtually or in person.
Many legal professionals underutilise LinkedIn particularly. It’s a platform rich with opportunities – from webinars, online events and industry insights, to connecting with significant individuals. Take time to fully complete your profile, engage with posts through likes, shares or comments, follow key organisations and build your online presence. Networking isn’t just about making connections, it can also be about showcasing your expertise and keeping yourself on the radar of potential employers.
Stay informed
Staying up-to-date with changes in the law and any relevant industry news can give you a competitive edge. For example, public sector professionals should be aware of devolution developments and the creation of combined authorities, as this is a big topic in the sector currently and could lead to new legal job opportunities.
Keeping updated with press coverage of councils and authorities and staying informed about high-profile cases or legal developments in your sector can position you as a proactive and knowledgeable candidate – something employers love to see.
Be flexible
Flexibility can make a significant difference when searching for a role, so setting rigid expectations and attempting to tick every box on your wish list could limit your opportunities. Take some time to consider what really is non-negotiable and where you’re willing to compromise.
For instance, if you’ve only been seeking permanent roles, exploring temporary contracts could broaden your options and provide valuable experience. Similarly, while remote roles are still around, some employers are moving towards hybrid models that require in-office presence (this can range from a few days a week to varying frequencies such as once or twice a month).
Reflect on your boundaries and consider where you might be flexible without compromising your overall job satisfaction.
Pursue continuous learning
Continuous learning is essential in the legal field; enrolling in additional training or courses demonstrates a commitment to your professional growth and can set you apart from other candidates.
Developing strong IT skills and familiarity with case management systems, as well as experience with legal research databases are also highly valued by employers. If you are an experienced candidate, consider how you can evidence upskilling, such as courses in management and leadership, by further training in the complex intricacies of your area of specialism, or even by diversifying into a new area.
Ultimately, standing out in the legal job market in 2025 requires more than experience alone – it’s about strategy, adaptability and positioning yourself as a proactive, knowledgeable and flexible professional.
Whether you’re leveraging the expertise of a legal-focused recruitment agency like Sellick Partnership, networking strategically, or staying informed about industry changes, each of these elements plays a role in helping you achieve your career goals.
Whatever your plans are for 2025, taking a proactive approach will put you in the best position to secure your next legal role.
Written by: Chloë Cameron, Principal Consultant, Sellick Partnership
For more information visit Sellick Partnership's website here.