Open days, whether in person or online, are an invaluable resource for individuals seeking a career in law. They offer a unique opportunity to gain insights into the workings of law firms, network with lawyers, and bolster your career prospects. Here’s why attending open days can be a game-changer for your application journey:
Insight into Firm Culture
Open days provide a first hand look at the culture and working environment of law firms. Understanding the firm's ethos and values helps you determine if it’s a good fit for you. This knowledge is crucial when deciding where to apply for vacation schemes, internships, or training contracts.
2. Networking Opportunities
Building connections is key in the legal profession. Open days allow you to meet partners, associates, trainees, and Early Talent who can offer advice and mentorship. These interactions can lead to lasting professional relationships and open doors to future opportunities. Networking takes place both online and in person so make sure you keep a note of those individuals you meet to follow up conversations.
3. Understanding Practice Areas
Law is a diverse field with numerous practice areas such as corporate, banking, real estate, intellectual property, employment litigation, and many more. Open days often include presentations or workshops on different practice areas within the firm, helping you identify which specialisations align with your interests and career goals.
4. Application Insights
Open days will feature sessions on how to craft compelling applications for vacation schemes or training contracts. Tips from recruitment teams on what they look for in candidates can significantly enhance your application strategy and the assessments beyond the initial application.
5. Skill Development
Participating in activities like case studies or group tasks during open days hones your practical skills and boosts your confidence when facing real-world scenarios or assessments.
6. Clarifying Expectations
Being a lawyer is not a 9-5 job so understanding what firms expect from their trainees helps set realistic expectations about workload, responsibilities, and career progression paths within the firm.
7. Competitive Edge
Attending open days demonstrates a proactive interest in the firm and commitment to pursuing a legal career—qualities that Early Talent recruiters value highly.
Conclusion
In summary, attending open days equips aspiring solicitors with essential knowledge about firm culture, networking opportunities, insights into various practice areas, application tips, skill development activities, clear expectations regarding trainee roles, and a competitive edge in the recruitment process.
By making use of these opportunities offered by open days at law firms, you're not only enriching your understanding but also strategically positioning yourself for success in your legal career journey.
For further details of the open day opportunities at Taylor Wessing, please click here.
