My top tips for your training contract application

Training Contract application season has arrived and Molly Disney, Trainee Solicitor, has some helpful top tips to share with you.

Ensure that you do your research.

Apply to firms that feel right for you. It is important to have both your training, career interests and well-being in mind. Research is vital to ensure that you are applying to firms that match your ethics and values.

Take some time to look into the firm’s community outreach and social opportunities.

This will provide you some insight into the opportunities available to you as a Trainee and how you can get involved.

When preparing your application, don’t rush the process.

Ensure that you take your time and that you are happy with your answers. It is important that you show each firm what you have achieved through your time in school or university and what experience you have gained from this.

It is important to show each firm you are applying to how you can transfer the skills you have gained into the role of a Trainee. Ensure that you focus on a variety of soft skills such as leadership, teamwork and communication and provide examples as to how you have developed these.

Don’t forget the importance of networking.

LinkedIn is a great place to meet people in a similar situation as you or those who are at all stages of their legal careers. It is also a great way to promote yourself and your skills to the firms who may consider your application.

Prepare for different application types.

If you are required to prepare for a written answer, ensure that you are drafting your answers on a separate document to avoid submitting any unfinished or unchecked work.

If you are preparing for an interview or presentation style application, ensure that you are putting time aside to practice.

Do not be afraid to use que cards, these are a helpful tool. However, ensure that you are not relying on them. Practice your presentation on friends, family or with yourself, this is a great way to feel confident in what you are saying.

Lastly, try not to leave your application until the last minute.

It is important that you put the time into your applications so that they really show each firm how great you are and what you have to offer. Consider the importance of proofreading and spell checking before you submit.

If you are interested in applying for a training contract with Wolferstans, please apply here. I wish you the best of luck!