Tips for a Successful Vacation Scheme

Before the scheme

Research the specific office you will be attending

• While you would have already researched the firm as a whole to secure your spot in the Vacation Scheme, different locations of the same firm can host different departments.

Read about their latest deals

• You may also learn about the work of specific partners as you do research. Use this moment to write down any questions you may have for them, when given the opportunity.

Keep abreast of the news

• Solicitors need to stay up to date with what is going on in the world and updates in legislation. Start getting in the habit of reading quality news publications, subscribe to a newsletter or attend webinars.

During the scheme

If in doubt, it is always better to dress up than down

• Only wear clothes you would be comfortable wearing at a job interview.
• Speaking of comfortable... a lot of walking might be involved, so please keep this in mind as you choose your shoes for the day.

Stay professional in any situation

• This includes after work socials.
• It could also be good to keep your agenda clear for potential gatherings after work hours.

Embrace the scheme

• Take any opportunity to ask questions and to take on work.
• Keep a journal: you will meet lots of people, and do a variety of tasks, that it might be easy to forget. Try to write a summary of the day each evening after work.

Final tips

Re-read your journal ahead of your exit interview at the end of your Vacation Scheme

• The only difference between your entry and exit interview is that you now have the opportunity to enrich your answers with your newly gained experience.
• Use your notes to reflect on what you did, and what did you well.

Network

• While it is obvious to network with your team, it might be that you are very interested in a department you have not been assigned to. Ask your mentor for the opportunity to be introduced to a colleague of another department of interest, so you can ask your questions and learn more about it.

Treat everyone with respect

• Everyone you will meet contributes in different ways to the good functioning of the firm. It should go without saying, but treat everyone with the same kindness and utmost respect.