This review was submitted over 4 years ago, so some of the information it contains may no longer be relevant.

Rating

3.1/5
  • About You
    2.5
  • The Company
    3.4
  • Everything Else
    3.3

    About You

  • 1. To what extent did you enjoy the insight?
  • I thought the vacation scheme was a great way to get a feel for the firm and determine whether I could see myself working their in the future. There were a number of socials organised throughout the four weeks which was a great way to meet representatives from the firm in a more relaxed setting.

    3/5

  • 2. To what extent did you feel valued during your time at the company or firm?
  • I thought the firm did value my work during my time on the vacation scheme. They gave me work which was was being used by my principal, not just replica work set just to fill time. Although my principal did say she didn't want a vacation scheme student allocated to her which did make me feel slightly unappreciated. Additionally, if I ever asked any questions I felt as if I was disturbing my principal. Then in feedback she said I could of asked more questions, which was slightly annoying.

    3/5

  • 3. How much guidance/support did you receive during the insight?
  • The vacation scheme was well structured and there was a number of one-to-one sessions with your allocated graduate recruitment buddy. If I had any concerns I could address them here. Additionally, all vacation scheme students were allocated a 'principal' and a trainee 'buddy' who you could go to with any questions or concerns. Overall the support network was very good.

    3/5

  • 4. To what extent did/will the skills you developed, and information you received, assist you in your degree studies and beyond?
  • Partaking in the vacation scheme did reaffirm my desire to pursue a career in commercial law. Having the experience of two departments under my belt will help me decide where to choose seat allocations when I begin my training contract. Finally, during my time at the firm I developed upon my teamwork, organisation, communication and networking skills.

    3/5

    The Company

  • 5. How well structured was the insight?
  • As mentioned above, the vacation scheme was well organised. We received a timetable on the first day which covered the full four weeks ahead. However they did change a couple of things last minute. We were provided with talks by various departments, representatives and on different topics such as professionalism and diversity. There were a number of assessments spread out during the four weeks and there was sufficient time in each department.

    3/5

  • 6. How was the general atmosphere during your insight?
  • I thought the scheme was very relaxed and most people they put in front of us were very kind, professional and genuine. Although you do come across some who are very judgmental and rude but that is to be expected in any workplace. All the vacation scheme participants did get on with one another.

    3/5

  • 7. In terms of personal training and development, to what extent did the company or firm invest in you?
  • There wasn't much training, just insights into the different departments at the firm. However, on the first day of the vacation scheme they put on a talk by an outsourced organisation regarding professionalism and how to approach certain situations. I believe most of your personal development comes from spending time in each department, understanding how to approach certain task and managing workloads.

    3/5

  • 8. To what extent did the insight help you to understand what it would be like to have a full time role with the company or firm?
  • 4/5

  • 9. How much did the insight help you in understanding the company culture?
  • Very much so. Four weeks was long enough to develop an understating of the firms culture. Most other firms schemes are either 2-3 weeks long and it seems Linklaters have the longest of the lot, giving you the best insight into the firm. Again, 2 weeks in each department compare to the more common 1 week allowed you to see and compare the very different working environments.

    5/5

  • 10. How valuable was the content in helping you to decide on your future career path?
  • This was the main reason I applied for the vacation scheme. Firstly I wanted to experience a number of different departments at the firm and secondly to get an insight into the firms culture. It was a two way interview, they were assessing me to see whether they wanted to offer me a training contract and I was assessing them to decide whether I wanted to work there. Both of which were easily decided upon after the four weeks.

    5/5

    Everything Else

  • 11. Were you paid or reimbursed adequately for this experience?

  • 12. Were there opportunities for networking and meeting other employees of the company or firm?
  • There was a number of opportunities to network with either trainees, associates or partners at the firm. We had at least 2 socials a week each were attended by representatives from the firm even if it was just graduate recruitment on some occasions. You could also network with employees during your time in each department.

    5/5

  • 13. How were the networking/ social event opportunities?
  • As mentioned above, there was a number of socials. The socials were very good and everyone really enjoyed them. These included the London Eye, speed boat on the Thames, escape rooms, cooking classes, meals and drinks. They definitely offered a variety of socials compared to other firms and they were really enjoyable. There was no 2 events the same!

    3/5

  • 14. Did you find out about activities that employees can get involved in outside of work?
  • This topic wasn't really covered during my time at the firm. During a number of the networking events I ask the employees this question but it was clear a career in law meant most of your time was spent in the office. Although it was clear the firm ensures employees have fun whilst at the office, there is a gym, regular drinks trollies and socials organised for the trainees.

    2/5

  • 15. Would you recommend this insight to a friend?
  • If anyone is interested in a career in commercial law then I would definitely recommend a vacation scheme at Linklaters. They are a magic circle firm who are preforming very well, with excellent clients and are known to have one of the best working environments of any magic circle firm.

    4/5

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Details

Insight / Vacation Scheme (< 4 Weeks)

Legal/Law

London

September 2016


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