Work Placement Review

I found the insight really useful and a lot of fun. Everyone I worked with was so kind and approachable, including the trainees, associates, partners, graduate recruitment and everyone else I met on the day. The group of people on the placement were also great and by the end of the week everyone had become friends, and we all went for drinks together.

I felt very valued during my time at Taylor Wessing. The week had been well thought out by graduate recruitment and packed with lots of events in order to give us a real sense of working life at the firm. I got the sense that they really had tried to structure the week to be helpful to us and wanted to give us the best impression of the firm.

Outside of talks and workshops, I sat with a really lovely trainee, who went out of her way to explain anything I did not understand and to answer many of my questions, even if she seemed busy. I also had an associate giving me work, and I felt comfortable going to ask him anything I was not sure about.

The work placement was invaluable in helping me in my degree studies and beyond. For example, there was a really helpful CV workshop which I found really targeted and which I consequently used to revamp my CV to help in job applications. I also had the chance to work in a team on a commercial task.

The week was well structured and filled with very helpful talks and workshops. We were generally always kept busy and on the move, either when in a department or outside of it. However, perhaps more could be done to teach about different practice areas in the firm, by way of a talk or interactive session.

The general atmosphere was so friendly, open and welcoming. This atmosphere came from absolutely everyone at the firm, including trainees, paralegals, graduate recruitment and partners. For example, a partner in the department I was in took the time to go around and introduce himself and speak to everyone on the programme.

From being able to shadow a trainee and associate, I was able to learn how it would be to have a full-time role in the company. For example, I observed the need for efficient organisation and prioritisation in order to get the work done. I also learnt about the type of work expected and the hours expected.

I think as the week progressed, I began to build my perception of the culture. What stood out for me was just how lovely and approachable everyone was. I got the sense that the people working at the firm, were the type of people I would like to work with one day. Everyone seemed enthusiastic and helpful.

There was a great networking lunch on one of the days. This was attended by trainees, associates and our mentors from the week. However, I think there were still a lot more people in the room that were on the placement, so not everyone got to ask their questions and speak to Taylor Wessing employees.

I would strongly recommend a work placement. They are a great way to learn about the inner workings of a law firm, network with people and develop your own impression of that firm. Also, they are a chance to see if the culture works and fits for you. Every firm is different so this is a really useful experience to gain.