Make an Enquiry
" * " indicates required fields
Dayna Rodrigues
- Ellis Jones (Company News)
How to write a successful training contract application
Writing a training contract application can seem like a daunting prospect, whether it’s the first application you’ve ever made, or one of many. We have a tendency to overthink job applications, or feel uncomfortable writing about how brilliant you are, but a good training contract application for Ellis Jones should come naturally.
We are interested in getting to know the person behind the paper and want to see your personality shine through .
I am a trainee solicitor at Ellis Jones Solicitors, currently in my third seat of four. I can clearly remember how demoralising and exhausting preparing applications for training contracts, vacation schemes and legal work experience felt. Overall, the best advice I received was to make it clear, why that firm in particular?
What is it about the firm you’re applying for that stands out to you?
Whilst the below is not exhaustive, I have summarised below some of the most helpful strategies I used when applying for training contracts and what ultimately secured me an interview with Ellis Jones.
What area/s of law interest you?
It’s important to research the many different areas of law and to try formulate an idea of what interests you. You may not know what area you want to qualify into and that’s normal, but you will reach a broad idea of whether for example, you want to be a prosecutor, or defence lawyer, whether you want to do criminal or family law, or perhaps maritime and shipping interests you more.
Some law firms are full service whilst others are more niche. Apply for firms where, if you secure a training contract, you will likely spend time in a cross section of service areas that interest you.
Here at Ellis Jones, we are proud to offer legal services across a multitude of areas both broad and niche including Dispute Resolution, Employment, Corporate and Commercial, Banking and Finance Litigation, Equine, Sports Law, Criminal, Personal Injury, LGBT+, Regulatory, Insolvency, Family and Wills, Trusts and Probate amongst others.
What is unique about the firm you are applying for?
What is that firm’s unique selling point (USP)? You might admire a firm’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts, or their achievements in diversity and inclusion. Perhaps you are drawn to a firm’s unique client approach. Highlight this in your application.
Amongst our many other achievements and endeavours, at Ellis Jones we actively engage with many of the charities we sponsor including Dorset Wildlife Trust. Read about our recent beach cleaning day with the Dorset Wildlife Trust here .
We are also proud of our ethos: Put People First.
Read the criteria for applications
It is of utmost importance to carefully read and make sure you understand what the firm has asked you to include in your application. Here at Ellis Jones, a training contract application consists of sending us your CV and a covering letter, but we also ask you to specifically include something extra.
Have a look at our training contract applications page here and identify what this is!
It may seem simple, but many people forget to include specifically requested information in their applications. By correctly including this, you are showing key skills that you will need to be a successful lawyer, including the ability to critically analyse a document.
Can you see yourself working here and why?
You will find yourself researching a firm through their website, social media and reputable publications such as Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners. During this process, you might naturally get a feel for whether you can imagine yourself working for that firm.
Where is the firm based? What are the firm’s connections? What does that firm stand for?
Have you attended any events hosted by that firm that you particularly enjoyed and why.
By considering the above in the round, you should get an idea of whether you are excited to apply for that firm and let this shine through in your application. We want to know about you and why you think you would be a great fit for the firm.
Proofread, proofread, proofread
Proofread everything. The legal industry is particularly competitive and it would be frustrating and disappointing to have your application rejected for a silly mistake such as a typo or forgetting to update your CV before applying. Have a look at some of the most commonly misspelled words here .
Use your covering letter wisely.
Your CV already tells us about your grades and work experience so it is not necessarily a good use of space to reiterate this in your covering letter, unless you have a particular reason to do so.
Avoid unnecessary waffle.
Read your application out loud if that helps. Have you repeated the same point? If a sentence is not conveying a message or particular point, cut it out.
Take a break
If you find yourself faced with writer’s block, take a break. Go for a walk in the sunshine. Return to your application with fresh eyes.
We hope to hear from you with your training contract applications and look forward to welcoming many of you to Ellis Jones.
If you think that you would fit into our culture, please give us at least one example of how in a covering letter attaching your CV. Please send your CV/Covering letter to [email protected] .
How can we help?
When you submit this form an email will be sent to the relevant department who will contact you within 48 hours. If you require urgent advice please call 01202 525333.
Related news
Ellis jones’ 2024 commercial negotiation competition, my training contract & becoming a contentious trusts & probate trainee, ellis jones celebrates treble awards nomination, mojo: a motivated workforce.
AllAboutLaw
What are you looking for? Submit
- Speak to an expert Ask about postgrad courses CHAT NOW
- SQE: Need to prep? Find out all about the SQE LEARN NOW
- Selection & Assessment Week Tues 6th - Thurs 9th Feb Reserve your Spot
Oct 25, 2023
Written By Elizabeth Beesley
The Secret Recipe for the Perfect Training Contract Application
Securing a training contract in the competitive world of law is no small feat, and training contract applications are your first opportunity to prove you’re what firms are looking for. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide to creating the perfect training contract application. From customising your applications to the submission and follow-up process, we will unveil the secret recipe for success.
Deconstructing the Application Process
The journey of a training contract begins with understanding the application process. Typically, this process involves multiple stages, from application forms and situational judgement tests to attending assessment centres and undergoing interviews. Check out our selection and assessment hub for more tips on filling out application forms and excelling in critical thinking tests.
Need help with your training contract applications?
Learn how to construct the perfect answer to each question! Access our Online Application Masterclass for FREE now!
Tailoring Your Application
Law firms often receive a high volume of applications, and they need an efficient way to shortlist candidates for further assessment. Generic applications rarely make the cut, thus it is essential to customise each application to the specific firm. You need to understand their culture, practice areas, recent deals, and values, so you can tailor your application effectively. Customisation shows you’ve done your homework and are genuinely committed.
Crafting a Compelling Cover Letter
Your cover letter is your first chance to make a personal connection with the employer. It serves as an introduction to your application and should pique the reader’s interest. For example, you could start it with a statement about what led you to a career in law.
To create a compelling cover letter, you need to effectively showcase your relevant qualifications, skills, and experience. Look at the characteristics the firm is looking for in its candidates and think of ways you’ve demonstrated these. Then, you should explain how these experiences connect with the firm’s values and your motivation for applying.
Perfecting Your CV
Your CV should be professional and easy to read. Try to make your CV look well-organised, for example using bullet points, headers, and highlighting relevant achievements. For example, if the firm stresses that they’re innovative, highlight times where you’ve come up with exciting new ideas. It’s worth booking in with your university’s careers team to go over your CV, or getting a legal professional to review it. Overall, it’s vital to highlight your accomplishments and responsibilities. By focusing on your achievements, you’ll demonstrate your value and potential contributions to the firm.
Advertisement
Navigating the Competency-Based Questions
Many law firms use competency-based questions, which ask you to discuss times you’ve demonstrated specific skills. Being able to address these questions effectively is crucial.
The STAR technique is a structured framework used for answering competency-based questions. STAR stands for Situation Task, Action, and Result. Essentially, you explain the situation, why you were involved, what you did and the result of your actions. Using the STAR technique helps candidates provide well-organised responses that highlight their skills, experiences, and achievements.
Showcasing Your Motivation and Fit
Firms are not only interested in your skills but also your motivation for pursuing a career in law and your specific reasons for choosing their firm. For this reason, it is essential to convey your genuine interest and personalise your application to align with the firm’s areas of expertise. Your motivation is what will set you apart from the crowd.
Cultural fit is crucial in the legal profession. This will demonstrate that you’re a team player who will enjoy working at the firm. This doesn’t mean that everyone has to look the same (law firms are actively encouraging diversity in recruitment) but that your values align with the firms. The firm probably has a list of their values on their website.
Proofreading and Editing
Meticulous proofreading is essential to eliminate errors and ensure clarity in your application. Even the smallest error (using ‘&’ instead of ‘and’ in a firm’s name) can tarnish an otherwise outstanding application. Try changing the colour of your text, taking a break before rereading the application, and asking someone to proofread.
Submission and Follow-Up
Try to submit your application as early as you can. Many law firms review their applications as and when they receive them, and others might close submissions early due to the volume of applications.
It’s important to express continued interest without being overly persistent or pushy. Proper follow-up shows that you are genuinely interested and committed to the process. For example, you could email a law firm after an interview saying you enjoyed meeting everyone and would love to hear about next steps.
Finally, we encourage applicants to seek feedback from firms in case of unsuccessful applications. You can also reach out to careers advisors, legal professionals or lecturers for tips. A different perspective can help identify areas for improvement that you might have overlooked.
In conclusion, the secret recipe for the perfect training contract application is a combination of thorough research, customisation and proofreading. Armed with this knowledge, you can approach the application process with confidence and determination. It’s not about being the best; it’s about proving you’re the best fit for the firm.
Selection & Assessment
- 5 Mind-Blowing Hacks for Nailing Law Firms' Written Assessments Every Time
- 8 Secrets to Mastering the Watson Glaser Test Revealed
- A Guide to Understanding and Acing Situational Judgement Tests in Legal Graduate Recruitment
- Ace the group exercise: tips for success in law firm assessment centres
- Ace the Interview: Tips for Success in Criminal Law Applications
COMMENTS
Read the criteria for applications. It is of utmost importance to carefully read and make sure you understand what the firm has asked you to include in your application. Here at Ellis Jones, a training contract application consists of sending us your CV and a covering letter, but we also ask you to specifically include something extra.
A different perspective can help identify areas for improvement that you might have overlooked. In conclusion, the secret recipe for the perfect training contract application is a combination of thorough research, customisation and proofreading. Armed with this knowledge, you can approach the application process with confidence and determination.