Application technique
the recruitment process for the Bar is different. Many applications must be made through the centralised online pupillage application system, the Pupillage Gateway (www.pupillagegateway.com), while other chambers advertise pupillages on the Gateway but require you to apply direct. See ‘Becoming a barrister’ on page 374 for more information. Some smaller organisations accept applications just one year in advance. If you’ve left your application late or were unsuccessful in your first round of applications, check the jobs board on LawCareers.Net for the latest vacancies. Many recruiters emphasise the importance of applying well before the official deadline: first, so you’re not rushing to get the application done; second, because popular firms may fill their trainee quota before the deadline. Presentation An application may be the first contact that you have with prospective employers. Make a good impression by showcasing that you have the necessary skills, experience, qualifications and enthusiasm for the job in question. Make sure you know the firm or chambers’ preferred application format – the vast majority use online application forms, although some may still prefer a CV and cover letter. In either format, if the firm or chambers provides the option to include a cover letter, always do so. Where possible, find the name of the person to whom you’re addressing the application. The best applications are tailored to each individual firm or chambers. Most recruiters complain about receiving generic applications. A head of chambers in the South East agrees : “We had an application from someone allegedly impressed by ‘the ethos of our set and the fact that it had kept in touch with its roots’. Our advice? Don’t write
By the time you start writing an application, you should have thoroughly researched the profession and know where you want to apply. Mention why you’re attracted to the firm or chambers in question (follow our advice in the previous chapter), and how your skills and qualities match what they’re looking for. Andrew Campbell, a barrister at Queen Elizabeth Building and heavily involved with the chambers pupillage committee, explains: “An application form is in many ways a form of written advocacy. The case the candidate is presenting is why they should be offered a pupillage or mini-pupillage. Every question must be seen as an opportunity to impress, rather than a hurdle to overcome. The best answers will be like any good argument in court and will support the case with strong evidence.” Remember, 10 well-researched applications will serve you far better than 40 copy-and- pasted efforts. What’s in a name? Candidates must proofread applications to avoid spelling and grammar errors, as well as general mistakes. One graduate recruitment partner recalls a student who “sent an application and covering letter for a training contract stating that ‘I would love to work at Withers’. Wrong firm!” Don’t make this mistake. And don’t take it upon yourself to abbreviate a firm’s name. Timing Many firms and chambers fill their training places two years in advance. For law students, this means applying during the summer vacation between the second and third year of your law degree. Non-law students should apply before starting the Graduate Diploma in Law or conversion course.
While budding solicitors should apply directly to firms for training contracts,
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