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If you are reading this, you will likely be starting your training contract soon. Securing a training contract is a significant milestone and you should be proud of your achievement. When the initial excitement has worn off, however, it is natural to feel nervous about starting your new role.
As my own training contract draws to a close, I look back on what I did to prepare.
Find out your first seat
During your training contract at Michelmores, you will undertake four ‘seats’ in different teams within the firm. As a general rule, you are encouraged to sit in at least two of the firm’s three departments – Private Client, Real Estate and Business. This allows you to acquire a broad understanding of different areas, gain transferrable skills and identify an area into which you may want to qualify.
A few weeks before you join the firm, you will be sent a list of the available seats and asked to submit your preferences. It is important to keep an open mind and be flexible – there is sometimes a big difference between theory and practice. It may be that you are allocated a seat which was not your first choice, but you end up loving it!
Networking
At Michelmores, there are typically two socials a year where current and future trainees and graduate solicitor apprentices can get to know each other. These events are a great way to ask any questions and get to know other juniors at the firm. It also allows you to meet some of your future trainee cohort ahead of starting. Building relationships with other trainees in your intake is key as they will form an important part of your support network for the duration of your training contract (and beyond!)
Refresh your legal knowledge
Your training contract is a great opportunity to learn; nobody expects you to know everything on Day 1. That said, it is a good idea to review your SQE notes and refresh your understanding of keys concepts.
When you find out your seat, you can also start to read around the area so that you can develop some foundational knowledge. Most teams have information packs for new joiners which can point you in the direction of key resources. This will all help you to feel more confident when you start.
Relax!
Finally, try and relax before your training contract. A training contract can be hard work and, to make the most of it, you want to start feeling refreshed and confident. You have worked hard to get to this point, and you should take the time to celebrate your achievement.
Although a two-year training contract may seem a long time, it will go fast. Good luck and enjoy it!