Deadline for 2020 training contracts in commercial Law firms coming closer!

The 31 July deadline for  training contracts in commercial Law firms to begin in 2020 is approaching, but there's still time to put together some good, targeted applications.

My piece of advice on this is, that it is better to do fewer applications but do each one well, than to try to do as many as possible before the deadline. 

Here are  my top 10 tips when applying for training contracts:

1. Be realistic about the kind of firm you apply to.  Look at the selection criteria and be honest with yourself about whether you can match it.
2. Identify a shortlist of suitable firms and do your research on each one.  You need to spend time understanding firms and how they differ so you can make an informed application.
3. Read the application procedure very carefully and make sure you follow the instructions. You don't want to fall at the first hurdle because you misunderstood how to apply.
4. Make sure you know your own skills and abilities and have good examples of where you have demonstrated these skills.
5. Stick to word limits when answering questions but note that 100 words isn't enough to answer a question if the limit is 250 words.
6. Draft out answers to questions and ask advice from a Career Consultant to see if you are on the right track.  If you haven't answered the question your application will be rejected.
7. You must be able to write in a clear and concise manner.  There is no margin for error here so be very careful to check and recheck your application for errors.  Then show your completed form to a Career Consultant who will look at it with a critical eye.
8. Don't leave your applications until the last minute.  If you rush to meet the deadline you could regret it later.  Late applications will not be accepted.
9. Make sure you are commercially aware by keeping up-to-date with the business news as well as current affairs.
10. Check your application one last time and print off a copy.  You will need to revisit this if you are invited for interview!

Remember that the 31 July deadline applies mostly to commercial Law firms.  If you don't want to be a commercial Lawyer then don't apply.  You won't succeed in making a convincing application if your heart really isn't in it.

There are resources available to help you with your applications on CareerHub as well as on Lawcareers.net

Good luck!