At Wilkin Chapman, we understand that training contract application season can be overwhelming. Our expert tips and advice will help you through the application process.
Attention to detail is a key skill for a solicitor and demonstrating this on your application is crucial. Triple check your application for any spelling or grammatical errors before submitting. Sometimes it’s hard to spot your own mistakes, so perhaps ask a friend or family member to help proof-read.
As a trainee solicitor, you will need to relay information back to colleagues and clients throughout your training contract. Ensure your points are clear, concise and well-structured, making your application an easy and enjoyable read.
Legal landscapes are constantly evolving so it’s crucial to highlight your ability to adapt to trends and the impact these may have. Do your research and keep up to date on the current affairs of society and the legal world.
As a trainee solicitor you will be working both on your own and as a team. We want to hear about times you have worked well within a team and the results that you achieved together. This is not limited to legal correlation, as long as the skills are transferable. Think about sports teams, part-time jobs or group projects, these can all be relevant.
We are looking to grow partners of the future. Show you have done your research and tell us what stood out to you about our trainee programme, why have you chosen to apply for us? Our website and social media pages are full of useful and interesting information.
Show your personality in your application – we want to get to know you
Draw on all your personal experiences, even those outside of your studies and work, to demonstrate your skills and attributes
Make your application interesting and authentic – be honest about what makes you a great candidate
Make sure your application is error free – even minor errors can substantially detract from an otherwise great application
This is a great opportunity to highlight what you have done either inside or outside of work, this could be experience in group work at university, taking lead on a project at work or guiding your local sports team. This doesn’t need to be a position of responsibility within a business or a formal environment.
A major challenge doesn’t have to be new legislation, it could be anything. Think outside the box. This is also a great opportunity to show what you are passionate about whether it be addressing environmental concerns or technological advancements in legal services.
If you have any questions about the application form or process, we’re here to help! Get in touch with our recruitment team: recruitment@wilkinchapman.co.uk
