LinkedIn for Lawyers - Top 10 Tips for Law Students

In today’s legal landscape, your digital presence is as crucial as your CV. LinkedIn is not merely a networking tool, but a platform for you to showcase your skills, build connections and attract future employers.

This article provides 10 essential tips to help you improve your profile and make it more appealing for potential future employers. 

1. Professional Headshot: A well-lit, approachable image creates the initial impression that recruiters form. This visual image embodies your professional identity in the digital world, rather than mere vanity.

2. Effective Headline: Have a concise headline that briefly describes your current academic pursuits, which for university students typically involves your degree. An example for a law student is, “LLB Law Undergraduate @ The University of Manchester”. 

3. Personalise About Section: This space should include aspects like your academic journey, legal interests and career aspirations in a manner that tells a story about you. Keep it personal but professional. 

4. Education: Your academic credentials, from A-levels to your current degree, provide the factual information that support your professional narrative. The University of Manchester has a great international reputation, so adding this is a selling point in itself. 

5. Extracurriculars: Whether through part-time employment or internships, extracurricular activities demonstrate initiative and promote your individuality. Don’t worry if you don’t have any past experiences, becoming a member of MULS demonstrates initiative and provides opportunities to network with like-minded students. 

6. Follow Law Firms: Follow law firms, especially those with a presence in Manchester; DLA Piper, Addleshaw Goddard and Kuits. This demonstrates interest in the legal industry and your local market. 

7. Engage Actively: Actively engage with posts from other students, academics and law firms by liking and commenting, as well as posting your own achievements and milestones. Think of your profile as a portfolio and use it to promote your professional identity. 

8. Build Connections: Legal careers are often built upon relationships. Connecting with others at freshers’ fairs, internships or professional events represents a potential pathway to future opportunities.  

9. URL Customisation: Customise your LinkedIn URL into the format ‘linkedin.com/in/firstname-lastname’. This formatting reflects attention to professional standards and creates a polished impression when referenced in CVs or cover letters. 

10. Academic Priorities: Remember that good academic results are still the most important factor for law jobs. This platform should support studies rather than replace them.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to create a polished digital image that will allow you to promote your professional identity and advance your legal career.