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Message: <blockquote data-quote="M&amp;ALawyer" data-source="post: 29915" data-attributes="member: 2647">Hi everyone,Just like to add how I am preparing for upcoming vacation schemes. Having spoken to partners who assess vacation scheme students, I have gauged the following criteria as being important. Note that this is not a ubiquitous view, as i'm sure solicitors of different firms value different things too. Additionally, it may also be known/common sense to those on here.<ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Understand how you can apply current affairs to a transaction/department/deal, and don't be shy to do this. From my understanding, what distinguishes candidates is not just solely carrying out the tasks they set - but applying perspectives and wider knowledge that are unique. Of course, there are many instances where it is not possible to do this. But by bringing a flair of originality in some tasks through commercial awareness it will clearly separate you from others. Even if you are wrong, by trying it will gain you points (within reason).<ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">I am learning who the firms clients are in specific sectors, what their priorities are, and highlighting stories relating to these clients in the economist/FT. Also I am looking at reports which show developments in sectors the firm works in. I think using legal and non-legal annual reports will also help here.</li> </ul></li> </ul><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Act well socially, and work with others - do not excessively compete against each other. From what I've heard there are countless incidents of students who do not act in a way solicitors would at the firm. Arrogance and excessive competition is generally not viewed favourably. A firm will prefer a cohort of 5 vacation scheme students who work really well together, than 5 who work independently and very competitively. This is dependent on the firm, however, as US firms take a different perspective to British firms – although as a principle it is good to follow.<ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">I don't think preparation is necessary as much per se. I am watching some videos on how to best work in groups, and trying to draw from what's worked in past group activities. Learning how to actively listen and contribute to others ideas can only be beneficial.</li> </ul></li> </ul><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Be enthusiastic, inquisitive, and sociable. I think it goes without saying that a firm will prefer someone who really enjoys the environment and will thrive there. In talks they give, ask questions and arrange coffee meetings with the person giving the talk if it is a topic that genuinely interests you. Be clear on what you must do when given work, and ask questions about any uncertainties. It is better to clarify/ask questions about the work provided so you get it right - than get it wrong by guessing. Also be sociable/respectful with everyone you come across – regardless of whether they are managing partner or a paralegal.<ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Planning some questions to prep beforehand, and looking at certain contracts (some are available on gold membership here I believe) will come in use. Aside from that, you either fit in at that firm or you don't - so if you're not interested in anything there I personally don't  believe there's any point forcing it. If you get the training contract and don't like the firm, you will be unhappy/worse off a few years down the line.</li> </ul></li> </ul><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Keep a record (log book) of everything you do on the vacation scheme, and start building on interview notes beforehand and during the scheme. The interview for a training contract can come during the vac scheme when youre working and have other tasks to do. It's not always at the end of the scheme.<ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">I think by preparing for the interview before the scheme, you are putting yourself in a better position. You can then use the log book to back up points you've made.</li> </ul></li> </ul>I think loads of other good points have been raised on this thread, such as understanding how the City works in general. Law is just one part of the transaction, and understanding how banking/accountancy etc works in a deal can only be useful.Outside of this, honestly I think one of the main challenges of the whole vacation scheme process is a mental one, feeling that you may be out of place or not as good as others there. It is competitive process and not everyone gets a job. However, they selected you for the vac scheme because they believe you have the potential to work there. If you give it your all, do some preparation beforehand, and act professionally – there's not much else you can do. Worst case scenario if you don't end up with a training contract is that you are given a decent salary for a week or two of work, and have experience which is invaluable for the next cycle.If anyone has any other ideas it would be great to hear them.Best of luck.</blockquote>

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