Application Overdrive

Dear Oracle

Between June and September I sent off 40 training contract applications, but I didn't get so much as an interview. I'm about to start the GDL. Should I do applications for vac schemes, training contracts or both?

The Oracle replies

It sounds as though you might have spread yourself too thinly during the application process. Forty applications is a lot in such a small amount of time - can you honestly say that you researched all of those firms thoroughly and that you put your whole heart (not to mention time and effort) into each and every application?

All is not lost. You can go on to make your applications more effective the second time around, so please be positive about your chances. Presumably your grades are good, you have relevant work experience and your CV is generally up to scratch - make sure you are presenting all of this in the best light by showing your CV or a copy of a recent application to a careers adviser who specialises in law, either at your undergraduate university or at your GDL institution when you start the course.

Once your application has been given the once-over and you're confident that it's the best it can be, you need to do your homework on firms. Just as important (if not more so), you need to do the hard work of thinking about why you want to work for a certain firm (we don't wish to sound patronising here; it's just that we get a lot of letters from students whose main problem is that they can't be bothered to think for themselves!). Once you've pinpointed why a firm attracts you, it is vital that you convey this information in your application (preferably in the covering letter so you stand out immediately as someone who knows their stuff). Also be sure to focus on what you can offer the firm in your application, rather than explaining how fits in with your needs.

Don't be afraid to apply to the same firms second time round, whether for a vac scheme, training contract or both. They'll be able to see how improved your application is the second time around and may well look favourably on you because of this. Finally, if in doubt apply for both vac schemes and training contracts. The experience of vac schemes always looks good on the CV and, as you no doubt know, a vac scheme can be an excellent stepping stone to the offer of a training contract.