'Diversify work experience' is a phrase I have heard frequently re TC applications and how this appeals to firms. How much truth is there in this?
From personal experience, I think it does appeal to firms. When I secured my first legal placement, I had no legal work experience and a lot of non legal work experience especially in terms of doing part time roles at uni such as being a customer service advisor, sales assistant, bartender, tutor, then some non legal work experience such as a journalism intern, psychology intern at a hospital, volunteering experience. All the skills I gained could be directly connected to law as well which was a plus and I talked about it in interviews. I think it puts a good impression and shows effort as well as helps in gaining different skills, experiences, meeting new people and handling different situations and roles.

That’s why I believe it’s best to put all experiences down in the application form, even if we think they’re irrelevant, the firms may not feel the same way!!