CMS Academy Review

The Early Talent Team did a really good job keeping us engaged throughout the Business of Law week. Some of my personal highlights included meeting the regional teams in Zoom break out rooms and the creative sketching sessions at the end of each day to recap what was covered. Another interesting session was the game stimulation where participants had to appease to stakeholders with very different views. Although it was challenging, I enjoyed collaborating with my peers.

From the start I felt very valued as an individual at the firm. Even the small ice-breaker questions at the start of every day made it feel like the firm cared. In particular, we were even given the opportunity to complete personality tests. Then, we were able to go through our results and understand what they mean in a business setting and how we can begin to improve in weaker areas. Feedback to the firm at the end of the scheme was also well-received.

During the virtual experience, there was a dedicated email to reach out to if any one was having technical difficulties. Any small issues during the day were also resolved very quickly. For example, where Zoom did not work we moved to a Microsoft meeting team. All participants were always encouraged to ask questions and be inquisitive, as its one of the best ways to learn more. Some speakers even provided their LinkedIn or emails to offer further mentoring to participants.

In my opinion, one of the most valuable skills developed on the scheme was presentation skills. We learned how to structure introductions, the importance of flow in an argument and even tips about PowerPoint layout. On the last day of the scheme, groups only had 5 minutes to present their ideas in the 'Innovation Den'. It required much editing in order to only include the most important bits and not run over time. In the end, I think these presentation skills will be useful not only in my degree studies but throughout a training contract as well.

Prior to the scheme, each participant received a booklet detailing what to expect on each day of the virtual experience. This was really helpful in calming any nerves about uncertainty. The start and finish of every activity was prompt and on schedule. Nearing the end of the experience, it was noted that the participants did not have much time to socialize with one another. The Team was quick to react to this and organized an optional Zoom chat for those wanting to chat more!

Every speaker was energetic, informed seemed excited to present. The atmosphere was always encouraging.

The firm provides financial support for the Graduate Diploma in Law as well as the Legal Practice Course. The fact that the firm also allowed us to interact and have a meeting with real clients with little oversight is testament to the fact that they value the training and development of future trainees. CMS also emphasized throughout the scheme that feedback, whether informal or through formal trainee seat reviews were an integral part of trainee development to ensure that progression is always being made.

Regional teams outlined to us what a typical day looks like, the type of clients they deal with and current challenges facing their particular specialty. We were also made aware what the general career progression at CMS would look like from trainee/apprenticeship, lawyer, associate, senior associate and election to various partner bands. Crucial aspects to employee life such as diversity networks, social mobility networks, family and carers network, religious networks etc were also mentioned to us.

I had to opportunity to network with many current lawyers.

CMS made sure that we were informed about opportunities available to trainees such as seat options, international secondments, and client secondments.

£400 for the Business of Law week.

Yes, there were many opportunities for networking and meeting other employees of the company in different settings. For example, there were large group discussions with Penelope Warne and smaller groups discussions with partners and associates. There were a wide range of employees that we spoke to including Personal Assistant and former paralegals. It was interesting hearing how responsibilities varied in each role, but the overall working atmosphere and supportive attitude towards each other remained the same.

As mentioned, they were done in break-out rooms were we had a particular topic to discuss. We met with different people each time so it was nice getting to know a wide range of people on the scheme. Unfortunately since it was virtual this year it is not quite the same experience as it would have been in London. Nonetheless, I think the Team did a good job setting up networking opportunities for us considering the time frame and circumstances. We were also encouraged to engage with each other and with CMS on their Instagram, LinkedIn etc.

Yes, we were informed about the employee networks as well as pro-bono opportunities. The Annual CMS Football tournament was also mentioned.

I would definitely recommend CMS' virtual experience week to a friend. Throughout the scheme, CMS made it clear that it remains an innovative firm that is at the forefront of legal challenges worldwide, and that it cares about the career progression, training and mental health of its employees. The sessions were well planned and provided an insight into life as a trainee. Crucial skills such as public speaking, organizing arguments, and presenting were developed throughout.