How to convert a Vac Scheme into a Training Contract

[hunter]

Hi there.

I've done one vac scheme already, and didn't get the tc at the end. I didn't actually like the company so I'm not bothered at all.

I have another vac scheme at a firm that I feel much more positive about. How can I make sure that I get a tc out of it? It's an American firm. Will I be assessed throughout the weeks? Or will it all be down to the final interview?

The firm only takes (or vast majority) of their future intake from their vac schemes. If they run 3 vac schemes, does that mean that if there are 9 training contracts that they will allocated 3 to each one vac scheme?

 

[Alice G]

this is hard to answer - it really depends on the firm and their internal processes and how competitive places are. I would assume there wouldn't be a hard and fast rule over how many people are offered after every scheme but it would be doubtful they would offer all the spots in the first two schemes for example, and leave no spaces left for the final scheme.

Again, your assessment will be firm dependent, but realistically your behaviour, work and conduct is likely to always be assessed. Even if socials are not 'assessed' it is still important to be courteous and to act professionally. I would not disregard the other placement and that experience - really that is vital to understanding what you ought to be looking to improve one. Take heed of your feedback and think about what you need to do to mitigate that same area this time.

General rules of thumb are as follows:
- make an effort with everyone - do not just keep inviting partners to coffee as they are not the only people in a firm who matter, Indeed, law firms could not possibly function without the incredible PAs, mail room staff, secretaries, caterers, other support staff and so many more.
- be enthusiastic, smile and show your interest. Obviously, try to time asking questions well so as to not be too distracting - but do try to set time aside to discuss tasks and the questions you had about them.
- Ask for feedback
- be kind and friendly with the other vac schemers - do not treat it like a contest and avoid gossip and any issues that might present themselves.
- stick to deadlines and communicate well - if you are heading for coffee or talks etc I used to stick post-its on my monitor so my supervisor knew and I gave them a copy of my timetable on the first day
- keep a diary of your work and conversations etc for final interviews.
- be punctual - never late!
- Enjoy! Whilst they are hard, they are an incredible opportunity and the more you try to relax and just enjoy them, the more at ease and confident you will seem

 

[Zoo]

Congrats on your vac scheme!

I completely agree with what @Alice G has said above

The point about being personable is really important. On a vac scheme they’re also looking to see if you fit into their culture and ultimately if they would like to work with you. Try to avoid being robotic and be yourself as much as you can, as the impression you make on people is long-lasting.

Also, if you are assigned a trainee buddy make the most of their support. They’re a great person to ask questions that you may not feel comfortable asking your supervisor about. They’ve also been in your shoes most recently and from my experience are keen to help you however they can.

 

[Jessica Booker]

Hi there.

I've done one vac scheme already, and didn't get the tc at the end. I didn't actually like the company so I'm not bothered at all.

I have another vac scheme at a firm that I feel much more positive about. How can I make sure that I get a tc out of it? It's an American firm. Will I be assessed throughout the weeks? Or will it all be down to the final interview?

The firm only takes (or vast majority) of their future intake from their vac schemes. If they run 3 vac schemes, does that mean that if there are 9 training contracts that they will allocated 3 to each one vac scheme?

Undoubtedly, you will be assessed by both your performance during the week and the interview, otherwise they wouldn’t bother with one or the other.

It’s unlikely they will be that rigid in offering only 3 people per vacation scheme. It’s much more likely to be they will just offer who they think is best. That could easily be all from one scheme.