Virtual Insight Event Participant Review

I really enjoyed the virtual insight event at Dentons and would recommend it to anyone interested in the firm. Throughout the afternoon, there was a variety of sessions that improved both commercial skills and firm-specific knowledge. In particular, I liked the mix of presentations, Q&A sessions, and interactive elements of the event. I found that the opportunity to speak to a partner, graduate recruitment, trainees, and future trainees across the firm made the event feel really inclusive.

I felt really valued during my time at the Dentons insight afternoon. Graduate recruitment indicated at the start of the event how competitive places were, and the small group size made me feel particularly grateful to have been selected. The thorough introduction to the firm by a partner and the opportunity to ask her questions reflected the investment that Dentons puts into such events. Honestly can say that I felt valued as a participant throughout the entire event.

For Dentons' insight event, plenty of support and guidance was given to participants both prior to and during the event. The timing and general structure of the event were outlined in two emails. We were also encouraged to 'Get in touch with [the graduate recruitment] team with any questions you have, no matter how big or small' and the GR email address was readily available, which is encouraging to see. During the negotiation task, trainees and hosts were on hand to ask any questions or clarify areas of confusion. Ultimately, I felt really supported throughout the event.

Although I believe the event will have a minimum impact on degree studies, I will be however be using the skills and knowledge gained to strengthen my upcoming Dentons vacation scheme application. In that sense, the opportunity to practice commercial awareness skills in an interactive group session with a trainee was useful preparation for assessment centre activities. Additionally, the information about Dentons received during the various sessions definitely reinforced my interest in the firm and will be useful in further interactions.

The virtual experience was extremely well-structured, as outlined in advance via email to participants. This included an introduction to the firm from Dentons Partner Esther McDermott, a commercial exercise with trainees, and an application workshop/Q&A with graduate recruitment and future trainees. During the call, graduate recruitment outlined the following session and there was plenty of time to ask questions throughout the event. No tech issues occurred and break out rooms for interactive sessions worked without fault.

The general atmosphere throughout the event was positive and supportive. Across the board, people were friendly and welcoming. During the virtual event, participants were encouraged to use their video which gave a slightly more personal feel. Throughout the event, everyone was approachable which made interacting easier given the virtual setting. Members of the firm were really enthusiastic about being there and excited about the future of Dentons, which was great for potential applicants to see.

The event gave a high-level understanding of what life at the firm would be like. This was approached on a number of levels, by a partner presentation and the opportunity to interact with graduate recruitment and future trainees. However, it would have been really useful to have a greater opportunity to chat with current trainees at the firm; this would have given a greater insight into the practice areas and opinions of people who have had more experience within the firm.

The insight event was very useful in finding out more about the inclusive and diverse company culture at Dentons.

Prior to the event, I was already very convinced that a career as a commercial solicitor is right for me. However, it did confirm that Dentons would be a good fit for me. I was able to gain a deeper insight into what life as a lawyer would be like, particularly in a rapidly expanding firm. The skills session in negotiation reinforced that the collaborative aspect and problem-solving role of a solicitor would suit my strengths and interests.

Virtual insight event, no travel costs, and remuneration was not expected.

There was a good opportunity to interact with people throughout the virtual event and questions were encouraged via microphone and in the chat box function. I really enjoyed meeting a variety of people at the firm but would have possibly enjoyed the opportunity for participants to ask a few more questions. However, I appreciate that this was a virtual insight event think the firm adapted really well to still incorporate an interactive element to the day.

During the introduction, the firm's pro bono efforts were outlined, including the contribution of 17,650 hours to pro bono this year. Participants heard about the firm's efforts to maintain a social element throughout lockdown and told us about events such as a virtual escape room which was happening soon. It would have been great to hear a bit more detail about specific initiatives and inclusion events that are hosted by the number of internal employee networks.

Definitely! I would recommend this event to a friend or anyone interested in finding out more about the firm.