The University of Law careers consultant Kerry Smith shares her advice for vacation scheme and training contract applications, the toughest parts of the recruitment process and the attributes she sees in successful applicants
Kerry Smith has been providing careers guidance and employment advice since 2008. She currently coaches students at The University of Law in Birmingham, helping them prepare for the competitive legal job market.
Ahead of her appearance at the Legal Cheek in-person workshops and networking event in Birmingham on October 10, she sat down with us to discuss how aspiring lawyers can maximise their chances of success.
What has been your journey to your current position as a careers consultant at The University of Law?
I have supported people who were unemployed to transition back into work for over 10 years. I decided to use my advisory skills to move into Higher Education and help students and graduates in 2019. I have now worked in Higher Education for five years.
What does this role look like day-to-day?
My role involves offering support to existing students and graduates to secure work experience or permanent jobs. This support is tailored to the individual needs of the student, it can be discussing how to structure a CV or write an application form. Sometimes I play the employer and conduct a mock interview or other times I run group sessions to help students prepare for recruitment processes.
What, in your opinion, are the toughest parts of the recruitment process? How can students give themselves the best chance of getting through these parts?
The application is the toughest part, the candidate must prove they are a good match on paper and that is a skill. Students should put themselves in the position of the employer and try to understand exactly what their needs are. If they can understand what the employer is looking for, they can work to match their requirements and present the most relevant information in their applications.
What are the traits that you see most often in those students who are successful in securing their ideal careers?
High quality detailed research into the industry and role they want; motivation to keep going even when they experience rejection; and perseverance, taking on board feedback to ensure they learn and succeed.
What should students bear in mind when making decisions about where to apply?
They should consider the specific requirements of each role and ensure they match what the employer is looking for. Many students don’t have success because they haven’t studied the essential criteria closely enough and they don’t provide enough detail to show how they match the requirements so employers cannot progress their applications.
Why is it important to attend careers talks, fairs and events?
To gain an insight into the role or the industry of choice. You can only learn so much by reading information online. Students can find out so much more by talking to people and asking questions. They can also make themselves more memorable so that their application stands out when it is received.
What advice would you give students trying to secure a vacation scheme placement or training contract this year?
Do your research, find the ones that match your skills and interests. Apply for multiple opportunities but make sure the applications are of a high quality.Visit your careers service and seek advice on your first couple of applications before submitting them. Seek advice every step of the way through the application and interview process so that you feel fully prepared.
What advice would you give to law students who start to doubt whether law is the career for them?
Carry on with your research, the more you know the easier the decision will be. There are lots of options within the field of law aside from being a solicitor or barrister. I always ask students to explore some of the other options online and shortlist any opportunities that interest them before ruling out a career in law.
What is the best thing about being a careers consultant?
Students and graduates are always grateful for the support they receive. It is really satisfying to see a students succeed and secure some work experience or the job they want.
Kerry Smith will be speaking at ‘In-person workshops and networking in Birmingham 2024 — with Eversheds Sutherland, Gateley, Mills & Reeve, Trowers & Hamlins and ULaw’, on Thursday 10 October. Apply now to attend.
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