How to maximise work experience placements

When you make your application to Gateley, we will want to know all about you and your experience to date. No matter what work experience you come with, there are pretty much always transferable skills there which you can link to those required of a trainee solicitor, so we want to know about it.

Some tips on maximising any work placement you carry out prior to applying to us:

• Be proactive – seek out work from those around you and be willing to throw yourself into any tasks you are given.
• Take initiative and show enthusiasm in all assignments – you may not enjoy every task which is given to you, but with everything you are responsible for, make sure you put your all into it
• Ask questions – be inquisitive, show you are interested and gain as much knowledge as you can.
• Gain insights – by asking about tasks, processes, and firm culture. This shows your interest and willingness to learn.
• Network – different people can teach you different things and from different perspectives, so build connections and relationships wherever you can. Networking within the firm can lead to future opportunities.
• Reflect and learn – take note of all that you’re doing, especially if you feel it will enhance your future applications to law firms, add everything to your CV and look at how the experience can translate to a trainee solicitor role. Regularly reflect on your experiences and identify areas for growth. Use feedback to improve continuously
• All work experience counts!