Choosing where to apply
with lawyers and gain insights into employers without even leaving the house.
wants to be there and who makes an effort in getting to know what they do.” Learn more about what a pupil’s life at each of these might be like by reading ‘Types of chambers’ on page 378. What other factors are important? When considering applying for a training contract or pupillage, you might also want to bear in mind the following factors: • the work area/s you’ll experience on the training programme or pupillage; • the expectations of you as a trainee/pupil; • the firm or set’s overall reputation in the legal market; • any awards received; • any impending changes such as mergers that may affect the firm or set’s future; • any financial help offered during postgraduate training;
Vanessa Harvey, recruitment manager at Milbank LLP, says: “Don’t underestimate the importance of early networking and supporting each other. Although it’s a competitive process, many of the people you meet are going to be future lawyers and you’ll either be working with or across from them in the future.” As a starting point, you should also consider the following factors when researching firms and trying to work out what you want from your career: • Type – commercial or high street? • Size – law factory or local firm? • Focus – highly specialised or a wide range of clients/practice areas? • Location – City or regional? • ‘Feel’ – high pressure or relaxed?
• trainee/pupil retention rates; • the firm or set’s client base;
• the salary on offer and any benefits; and • future opportunities and remuneration.
Work-life balance is also an important aspect to consider – lawyers work hard and it’s likely you’ll have to work long hours on occasion. However, most firms now also encourage their trainees to get involved in various additional activities, including sports teams, internal diversity networks and pro bono work, so it’s worth researching this as well. Equally, don’t be entirely swayed by salary: a higher salary might be attractive but look at the long- term prospects and quality of training too. Many firms and chambers will hold events at your university/college campus, such as workshops, seminars and networking events, at which you can learn about their work, clients and culture. You can also attend open days and go on vacation schemes and mini- pupillages, as well as conduct online research. And since the move to online during the covid- 19 pandemic, we’re still seeing plenty of virtual and hybrid events as well, so you can network
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THE LAWCAREERS.NET HANDBOOK
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