TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2023-24

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sxw517

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  • Sep 20, 2021
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    What's the etiquette on handshakes at assessment centres? Should we initiate handshakes with interviewers or assume not unless they do?
    I would always lean in for a handshake at the end when bidding farewell, yes.

    edit: you're leaving on a friendly note that way, and this is their final impression of you.
     

    Zi48

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    Feb 1, 2022
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    How realistic is it to get a VS or TC offer if you haven't had many conventional jobs in general? There is usually an emphasis on how non-legal work experience is equally as important, but what if you don't have much work experience at all? I am 23, and graduating this year (with a 2:1 most likely), and I have really struggled to go past the application stage, and only progressed to the second stage for 2 firms (apart from an AC for the GLD last year). I know I haven't submitted enough applications, but please be real, how common is it to get a TC with a few jobs on your CV like takeaway worker, delivery driving, while having most of your experience in online gigs like content creation and freelance?
    I think it’s possible, a lot of people don’t have much legal work experience as it’s hard to get.

    You might be underselling your experiences. Online gigs are still work experience, and content creation would be great to talk about imo as I think it’s quite a unique experience you’ve had. All the roles you’ve mentioned will definitely have some transferable skills that would be helpful for law. I’ve just searched ‘key skills for content creation’ and things like research and analytical skills, and creativity are some things that have come up, but there are a lot more too.

    If you aren’t already, maybe try to really highlight how those roles have helped you develop skills that will help you as a lawyer
     
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    sxw517

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  • Sep 20, 2021
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    So, would you initiate at the beginning or only the end?
    I think the start of a meeting is the conventional time to shake someone's hand yes.

    I would shake their hand when greeting them when I have just entered the room and before I sit down.

    I would then shake their hand at the end of the interview when thanking them for their time.

    But, unfortunately, I am not an interview etiquette specialist, haha! So I could be doing it all wrong...!
     

    lonelycruise

    Esteemed Member
    Oct 2, 2023
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    I think the start of a meeting is the conventional time to shake someone's hand yes.

    I would shake their hand when greeting them when I have just entered the room and before I sit down.

    I would then shake their hand at the end of the interview when thanking them for their time.

    But, unfortunately, I am not an interview etiquette specialist, haha! So I could be doing it all wrong...!
    No, that makes total sense! Thanks so much.

    My automatic mode is to go for a handshake but I wasn't sure if it was too much. Will now shake firmly and with confidence 😌
     
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