Tick, tock, tick, tock

Unless you've been living under a rock, the looming spectre that is the big training contract deadline of the year - that's 31 July, in case you weren't sure - is nearly upon us! This, as Martine McCutcheon once sang, is your moment.

On the assumption that you've researched your prospective firms to within an inch of their websites, you should be filling out application forms with precision and dedication as we speak. For all you need to know on how to do so, have another quick read of our application form master class.

And here's a heads up; with a little luck and lots of hard work, your carefully honed forms will lead to an interview or two, wherein you will almost certainly be required to demonstrate some of that hard to define but altogether essential skill, commercial awareness. Obviously, you will already be a dedicated reader of our Burning Question section, which allows contributing firms to highlight topics of commercial interest. But what else can we offer you, our diligent readers? Well, this week's Feature is all about what commercial awareness means and how to develop it. It is full to bursting with great advice and practical guidance on where to go for commercial knowhow. Definitely worth your attention! And keep your eyes peeled, for over the coming weeks we'll be bringing you targeted advice on online application forms, partner interviews, assessment centres and formal writing skills.

So press on, press on. It's a stressful process but if you approach it with forethought and care, and no small amount of attention to detail (our recruiter pals would be cross if we didn't mention that crucial detail), you may find yourself inching ever closer to your dream job.

And remember, not all firms subscribe to the 31 July deadline - many have other dates by which you must submit your applications. Check out our training contract deadlines page to stay on top of who wants want and when!