Whether you’re a law student, graduate, or junior solicitor, legal work experience can be one of the most valuable stepping stones in your professional journey. From gaining a deeper understanding of the law in practice to networking with professionals who can shape your career, the right approach to your placement can significantly influence your long-term success. Here’s how to truly make the most of your legal work experience.
Treat It Like a Job Interview
Every day you walk into a law firm, corporate legal department, or chambers, you’re making an impression. Arrive early, dress professionally, and be courteous and proactive. Remember, many organisations use work experience placements as informal extended interviews to assess potential hires. Show enthusiasm for the work, even if it’s administrative—attention to detail and reliability go a long way.
Ask Smart Questions
Work experience is not just about ticking a box; it’s a learning opportunity. Don’t be afraid to ask questions—but make sure they’re thoughtful. Before seeking help, try to work through the problem yourself. When you do ask, frame your question to show you’ve made an effort, for example, “I’ve researched X and found Y, but I’m not sure if it applies here—could you clarify?”
Be Curious About the Business Side
Many law students focus solely on legal theory, but understanding how law operates within a commercial context sets you apart. If you’re in a corporate legal team, take note of how legal advice aligns with business objectives. If your goal is to move into a corporate setting in future, understanding inhouse legal recruitment services in New York and other global markets can broaden your career perspective.
Build Genuine Relationships
It’s easy to feel like a temporary visitor during work experience, but relationships forged during this time can open doors later. Take the time to connect with people across different departments, and ask about their career journeys. A coffee chat could lead to a valuable mentor, or even your next job lead.
Reflect and Record Your Learning
Keep a daily journal or log of what you observe and learn. What types of matters did you assist with? Which areas of law did you find most interesting? Reflection helps cement your experience and gives you examples to draw on in future interviews or applications.
Offer to Help Wherever Possible
Even if a task seems small—photocopying, organising files, or drafting a basic letter—doing it well shows you’re dependable. Once you’ve built trust, you may be offered more meaningful work. Always volunteer when you have capacity, and let supervisors know you’re eager to learn more.
Ask for Feedback
Toward the end of your placement, ask for feedback on your performance. Constructive criticism is one of the best tools for growth, and it shows you’re committed to professional development. It also gives you the chance to correct any misconceptions before you leave.
Follow Up After Your Placement
Send a thank you email after your experience ends, mentioning specific things you appreciated or learnt. It’s a professional courtesy that can leave a lasting impression. Stay in touch with contacts via LinkedIn or email—nurturing these relationships can help keep you front of mind for future opportunities.
Ready to get started?
Legal work experience isn’t just about spending time in a professional setting—it’s a crucial opportunity to shape your career path, demonstrate your potential, and expand your industry network Approach each placement with curiosity, professionalism, and a willingness to grow, and you’ll gain far more than just a line on your CV.
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