Tips for Solicitor Apprentices and Trainee Solicitors as they embark on their legal careers

Your first day, week, month(s)! as a Solicitor Apprentice or Trainee Solicitor can be both exciting and daunting. To help you make the most of this crucial period, here are some key tips to ensure you are well-prepared and set up for success.

Remind yourself as to why

Before your first day, remind yourself as to the key reasons why you applied to the firm in the first place. What excites you about them and what are you most looking forward to? Also remind yourself as to the firm's values, practice areas and recent achievements so you feel in the loop as well as help you understand where your role fits within the larger picture.

Review your induction schedule

If your induction schedule has been shared ahead of day one, look at what is being covered and who you will meet. Review the speakers LinkedIn or website profile to find out more about them and think of some questions you would like to ask at different sessions.

Prepare mentally and physically

Get plenty of rest before your first week begins to ensure you're alert and ready to absorb new information – as there will be a lot! Consider light exercise or mindfulness practices to manage any stress or nervousness. I'd also recommend preparing your bag and outfit for the day in advance. Think about it as if you are going back to school for a new year!

Set clear goals

Outline what you aim to achieve in your first month (and beyond where possible) - whether it’s familiarising yourself with specific software, understanding who the key players or clients are in your new practice area, or simply adjusting to the new environment.

Engage with colleagues

Building relationships early on is vital. Introduce yourself confidently and show genuine interest in getting to know your team members. Networking within the firm can provide invaluable support throughout your training period.

Be proactive

Don't wait for tasks to come to you; seek out opportunities actively. Ask to shadow more experienced colleagues during tasks which can give you practical insights into daily operations and potential expectations.

Stay organised with tasks

Time management is essential in a fast-paced legal environment. Use tools such as calendars, task lists, or project management software provided by the firm to keep track of deadlines and priorities efficiently.

Seek feedback regularly

Constructive criticism is an excellent way to learn quickly and improve continuously. Don’t hesitate to ask for feedback after completing tasks - it shows initiative and commitment to personal development. But also, don't let constructive feedback knock you at the start, it will take at least two months to really feel comfortable in your seat. Give yourself that time.

Speak with your support network 

If you feel overwhelmed at any point, reach out to those around you, whether that be the Early Talent/HR team, your buddy, mentor or supervisor. They know it may be overwhelming starting a new role, and will want to support you where best. Remember, a problem shared is a problem halved.

Remember to recognise and embrace imposter syndrome

It is no mean feet landing yourself a training contract or solicitor apprenticeship. You passed all the obstacles put in front of you to get to this stage, but it is not uncommon that starting a new role is when imposter syndrome starts to creep in. Recognise and embrace the feeling, and work to remind yourself of all you have achieved, and give yourself time to adapt to your new role and workplace. If you would like some more tips on overcoming imposter syndrome, check out my previous article: Overcoming imposter syndrome: a guide for aspiring lawyers.

Conclusion

Starting as a Solicitor Apprentice or Trainee Solicitor marks an exciting chapter in your legal career journey. By preparing adequately for your first week, engaging proactively with colleagues, setting clear goals, and maintaining an organised approach towards tasks, you'll lay a strong foundation for success. However, if you only take one thing away from this article, it's to embrace and enjoy. You have worked incredibly hard to get to this stage, and this is just the start!