Taylor Wessing Insight Scheme Review

The insight was a good experience, made more enjoyable by sharing it with a cohort of similarly aged/like-minded people so you didnt feel isolated in the office enviromnment.

Staff were very encouraging, helpful and always happy to help. Being only a week and with minimal law knowledge there was obviously an extent to the amount of work the firm could entrust me with, but all supervisors were always keen to describe what they were working on and delegate tasks which I could assist them on.

The level of guidance varied from department but staff were always willing and helpful to answer any questions and generally make me feel welcome. All staff members were very approachable and friendly and clearly took pride in the firm.

I think my experience at TW was useful, especially in my position where I had little prior knowledge of what law entailed and how a law firm works. I feel like my experience will definitely improve my CV, helped to inform me of the ways into law and the process by which training contracts/qualifications etc. can be achieved. I am definitely considering a potential career in law from a much more informed viewpoint. The commerical challenge was useful as making a presentation with relatively new people and new content material helped to build teamwork and interpersonal skills.

The insight was well structured with regular activities with the placment cohort such as the Commercial Challenge presentation, networking lunch and others. This was useful as it allowed us to get to know one another and work in a time. Time spent in the departments could be more structured and is obviously relevant on who you are supervised but you have to be mindful that these people are trying to juggle a highly pressured, professional job while catering for you as well.

The staff were friendly in both departments I was placed in. Trainees from each department came to introduce themselves to me and were open about any need for advice/questions. This was helpful, gaining insight from people who were still in training and allowed for common ground as they were of same generation/couple years older and been successful in a process that many on the placement aspired to emulate.

The company culture of TW was very prominent from the start of the week - the companies core values were introduced to us in the introductory presentation and on show throughout the week.

There was a presentation on how to pursue a future career in law and tips on successful interview/assessment centre/CV practice.

Was not paid or reimbursed for expenses.

Yes - networking lunch, as well as 2 days in different departments meant there was exposure to a wide range of employess in different practice areas of law.

There was a networking lunch with trainees and in addition I went out for lunch on a separate day with my supervisor and colleagues which was a nice way to build relationships/relax.

During a series of induction presentations we were told of the social activities available to employees outside of work including sports teams and department trips. This was further elaborated on at a networking lunch where we were able to ask trainees about their experiences of the social side of things.

I would reccomend this insight to anyone who was considering a career in law or pursuing one. It allowed for relevant, first hand experience and was done in a friendly and engaging atmosphere.