CAREERS & EMPLOYABILITY GUIDEwww.ljmu.ac.uk/careers 1A WEALTH OF EXPERIENCES, INSIGHT & SUPPORT SCHOOL OF LAW CAREERS AND EMPLOYABILITY CASE STUDIES Read student and graduate case studies from the School of Law
Having strong academic ability is the norm for legal professionals. Those who have the confidence, determination and drive to enter the legal world should appreciate that being intelligent is no longer a sufficient enough accolade to secure employment. What is crucial is employability. Upon starting a degree the word employability has no meaning, but fast-forward three very quick years and it is the foundation of any candidate. A respected degree classification, first or upper second class, will improve your chances of securing an interview. Employability is what will set you apart from the other hundred or so applicants. Law is a very competitive field and I cannot speak highly enough of LJMU for their assistance in ‘making you stand out’. Each individual will have unique qualities and they should be tailored to the chosen profession; personally I aspired to pursue a career as a barrister and as such took every opportunity which would help me along the way. An individual can increase their employability in a number of ways and LJMU stand out from their competitors in their efforts of going above and beyond in making you not only employable but also a desirable, ‘well-rounded’ candidate. I have been heavily involved in LJMU’s mooting activities and have not only participated but have also mentored teams to the National Finals, beating excellent Russell Group universities along the way. I can categorically confirm that without the support of the staff and the whole-hearted backing of the university in general we would not have achieved so much. I can proudly say that I have mooted in both the Supreme Court and Royal Courts of Justice; in an interview that experience is Allpriceless.Lawstudents ought to be aware that networking is one of the most important things for any budding lawyer and it’s imperative that you start early. The legal world is daunting to those unfamiliar with its landscape, and I was no different. Once again, fast forward three years and I am now not only familiar but also comfortable in legal settings. LJMU has close links with Inner Temple and I have been fortunate enough to visit on numerous occasions, every time facilitated by LJMU. This allowed me to network, gain confidence and educate myself on the career I wished to pursue; having ‘slap-up’ dinners and free wine along the way. The university’s support in improving my employability combined with lecturers’ references enabled me to secure a £5000 BPTC scholarship from Inner NetworkingTemple.comes in all shapes and sizes, from organised talks with barristers, legal professional evenings, public debates, right through to wine tasting evenings and speed dating with local professionals. LJMU really show a desire to help, whatever form that may take. I strongly believe that had I not chosen LJMU I would not have met Lord Chief Justice Leveson, Lady Justice Hallett or Sir David Madison. I would not have mooted in the Supreme Court or Royal Courts of Justice, been crowned regional mooting champion or won the Liverpool Law Fair OtherDebate.institutions may have better academic reputations, they may be impressive on paper but the true test for any candidate is their employability. Your qualities and experiences not only as a lawyer but also as a person is what will impress any interviewing panel. I cannot recommend LJMU enough and can state with confidence that without LJMU’s support and guidance I would not be as confident or employable as I am today. There are three rules which I give to all legal newcomers; build your CV as both a lawyer and an individual and Network! Network! Network!
ALEX JONES IS AN LLB AND BPTC GRADUATE WHO BECAME A MEMBER OF ATLANTIC CHAMBERS IN LIVERPOOL AFTER SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF PUPILLAGE SCHOOL OF LAW www.ljmu.ac.uk/studentfutures 2 CAREERS AND EMPLOYABILITY CASE STUDIES
GRADUATE CASE STUDY
SCHOOL OF LAWwww.ljmu.ac.uk/studentfutures 3CAREERS AND EMPLOYABILITY CASE STUDIES Find flexible, part-time and temporary jobs that fit around your studies ... Earn some extra spending cash and enhance your CV using Unitemps at LJMU, our very own recruitment agency. availableAssignmentsatbothLJMU and externally, sign up now! To find out more or to register, scan the QR code or visit: ATUNITEMPSLJMU CONNECT WITH US: www.unitemps.com/branches/liverpool-john-moores-university unitemps@ljmu.ac.uk 0151 231 8888 https://bit.ly/38xNhl5
Those wishing to become barristers should sign up to the law society and start mooting. Mooting is a fictitious appeal case either in the Court of Appeal or Supreme Court, those that take part act as counsel for either the appellant or respondent. This experience will help you to develop so many of the essential skills you need to become a barrister, also every application you fill out that is relevant to the Bar will ask you what advocacy experience you have.
Whether you are looking to specialise, change direction, enhance your earning potential or boost your employability, staying at LJMU for postgraduate study is a great investment in your future success, with increased earnings of up to 18% for postgraduates compared to graduates.
What advice would you give to other students wanting to pursue this career path to improve their chances?
I have also taken part in the County Court and Crown Court marshalling scheme with the Merseyside Junior Lawyer Division.
Tell us about how you got to where you are today? attended a state school and came from a working-class background; I am the first in my family to enter the legal profession and a firstgeneration student. Throughout my studies, I have maintained a parttime job and I became a carer for a family member halfway through second year. My journey has therefore not been without its obstacles.
What kind of work experience and volunteering did you do to help you get to where you are today? I did some mini pupillages and had two placements in solicitor firms to help me decide which path was right for me, having these experiences has also helped me in interviews as I can evidence with examples why I wish to become a solicitor rather than a barrister.
EMILY THORBJORNSEN GRADUATED WITH AN LLB LAW DEGREE. SHE TALKS TO US ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF GETTING INVOLVED IN UNIVERSITY LIFE TO IMPROVE YOUR CAREER CHOICES
The Inns have a huge amount of money to give away to help students fund their Bar Course studies. You can only apply to one Inn of Court, so it is important to research which Inn is best for you. Even if you do not need the financial help, awards from the Inns are highly prestigious and can really help your pupillage applications. Many Inns also offer prizes to those currently studying, I would recommend applying to those too.
www.ljmu.ac.uk/postgraduate
I have done lots of pro bono work, I volunteered at the LJMU Legal Advice Centre, The Freedom Law Clinic, and Citizens Advice. I have taken part in many advocacy competitions. Advocacy is a big part of the role of a barrister, it is therefore important to have some advocacy experience.
I was events coordinator of the LJMU Law Society, not only did I learn great skills from this, but I also made great connections who still offer me help and advice now. I was also president of the LJMU Law Society which helped me to develop my leadership skills.
All of the above experiences have helped me to develop key skills which have been useful when completing application forms and interviews. From all of this, I have gained two scholarships from my Inn of Court, a prize from a Chambers, and a Senior Advocacy Scholarship from my Bar Course provider.
Finally, you should network as much as possible. I am a big believer that you determine your own success. Many barristers are happy to help, they will proof read applications, conduct mock interviews, and provide general advice. This is all really useful. Networking events are put on by the careers service, the law society, and you will also find some externally.
I have taken advantage of all the opportunities offered to me throughout my studies and actively engaged with the Careers, Employability & Start-Up Team. Doing these things has allowed me to network, acquire mentors, and gain work experience, which has given me the skills needed to succeed. I have had the mindset that every opportunity you do not apply for is a missed one.
Source: BBC GET A 20% DISCOUNT OFF YOUR LJMU POSTGRADUATE COURSE To discover more, call 0151 231 5090, or go to: SCHOOL OF LAW www.ljmu.ac.uk/studentfutures 4 CAREERS AND EMPLOYABILITY CASE STUDIES
GRADUATE CASE STUDY
I would also recommend applying to the Inns of Court for a scholarship.
Get involved in as much as you can. At university, you will have access to so many opportunities internally and the Careers, Employability & Start-Up Team will help you apply to external opportunities. When you start to look at job specifications and scholarship criteria you realise that your degree alone is not enough, it is one small aspect of a long list of requirements. I think it is best to start doing work experience as soon as you can, that way you are not trying to squeeze it all in when you are in your last year, which is also the hardest year. It is very easy to feel like you are not good enough or will not be successful, but it is not for you to decide that you are not good enough. Every application is good practice and there is no reason why you will not be good enough, so make sure you apply to every opportunity that will benefit you!
Tell us about how you got to where you are today?
The best questions are positive outlook ones, e.g. ‘What does success look like in this role?’ Or even better ‘What could I do to excel in this role?’ This demonstrates confidence, a proactive nature and that you are looking to progress in the role.
❙ Teamwork and collaboration - everyday working as a team feeding into a larger team, success of all required to enable business as a whole succeeds. OF LAW
What kind of work experience and volunteering did you do to help you get to where you are today? Whilst studying my degree I volunteered at Citizens Advice which gave me a lot of experience dealing with legal issues and really helped me get my first legal role in a law firm. I also did and continue to do a lot of charity work and fundraising events for charities that are important to me. It exposes you to a wide range of different people who have different life experiences and supports your own development. As well as getting involved in these charities for personal reasons they can also strengthen your application or interview for a role, showing your passionate about something and making you more personable. A lot of people do charity work and I found a lot of times it was a common ground area in interviews.
What kind of work experience and volunteering did you do to help you get to where you are today?
In my final year, I entered competition, competing against other Universities. The competition was to raise the most money for two probono charities. I joined a team and put myself forward for Vice-Chair and we managed to raise the most out of all the Universities, achieving the Gold prize. This was great for my CV. In my summer between first and second year I went to E.ON and Brethertons to get some work experience. This was great, it helped me decide what area of law I was interested in and the work experience also helped me secure a position at Brethertons.
Tell us about how you got to where you are today?
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What does your current job involve? My time on the graduate scheme at BAE Systems involved four six month placements across different parts of the business. The aim is to experience different areas, build a strong network, develop key skills and lead projects. I’ve spent a lot of time working in the middle east and currently support and advise government and international customers about market trends and source and procure products to meet specific requirements.
STEPHEN COXON COMPLETED HIS UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE IN LAW AND CRIMINAL JUSTICE, FOLLOWED BY THE LPC AND NOW WORKS AS A PROCUREMENT CONSULTANT FOR BAE SYSTEMS
What advice would you give to other students wanting to pursue this career path to improve their chances?
Work hard, many law firms won’t consider you if you don’t get a 2:1. Get something on your CV that makes you stand out. I heard this so much but again with uni work, a part time job and social life I couldn’t fit much else in. However, what I have realised now from my CV is some things do make you stand out. In my case in my third year, I took the Animal Law module, not many Uni’s do this module so it offered me something different to talk about. This helped in my situation as the Partner of the law firm I got my first job with is a Vegetarian, so straight away this caught his eye and we talked about this a lot in my interview.
❙ Being able to point people in the right direction for the support they need. The job is never boring, it is a very fast paced work environment.
I am now an assistant to a Partner in the firm, he is a Guardian Solicitor, this means he acts for children in proceedings either in public law, called Care Proceedings and this is where the Social Services are involved, or within private law parental disputes. On a day to day basis I can be doing anything from submitting a legal aid application, to drafting court documents e.g. statements or C2 Applications, liaising with experts, or doing admin duties. The job is so varied, and it never gets boring!
❙ Analysis, problem solving and decision making - everyday job role, analysing data to support decision making, presenting solutions to potential problems and support decision making process for the teams direction.
Three things that I like about my Job:
❙ Professional written and spoken communication skillsnetworking across the business, presenting ideas to seniors, facing challenges and getting point across clearly.
❙ Knowing that we are doing everything possible to get the best outcome for that child makes the job fulfilling.
PAIGE BELL GRADUATED IN 2019 WITH AN LLB LAW DEGREE AND NOW WORKS AS A PARALEGAL ASSISTING THE PARTNER AT A LAW FIRM GRADUATE CASE STUDY
What advice would you give to other students wanting to pursue this career path to improve their chances? Take every opportunity you can where you have spare time to get involved with things you enjoy and those which put you outside your comfort zone. It gives you experiences to draw out in interviews and sets you up for when you land that job in the future to put yourself forward when others would hesitate. Network as much as you can at events or through career fairs, it comes natural to some people but I found it quite awkward at first. Like a lot of things you get better over time and it really helps get your name out there and recognised. Biggest piece of advice is to try and stay positive, it can be disheartening receiving rejections after going through lengthy application and interview processes but treat it is a learning experience to take forward into the next one and you’ll start to feel less pressure and nerves going into them and eventually start seeing the right doors open for you.
Which are the most important employability skills you learnt during your time at LJMU and how do you use them in your day to day role?
I also worked at Liverpool Football Club on match days, behind the bar and waiting on. I put this on my CV and no matter who they are people always find this a very interesting job – so again another talking point. If you are lucky enough to get an interview do a lot of research. I found out about the business and the Partners, this makes the difference between a standard interview and a GREAT interview. Finally, make sure you prepare questions to ask the interviewer. This looks so bad if you have not prepared any questions as it looks like you are not interested.
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www.ljmu.ac.uk/studentfutures 5CAREERS AND EMPLOYABILITY CASE STUDIES
I completed my law degree in 2016 and started working at DWF Liverpool, I then completed my legal practice certificate part time whilst applying for training contracts and graduate schemes. After a few years in the legal sector I decided to take a different career path in the aerospace and defence sector after learning about the opportunities at career fairs and network events.
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After two weeks work experience-shadowing Solicitors in a firm that specialised in family law I decided that was the route for me, particularly the children side. After researching routes into family law I found out they tend to recruit in-house (this is not for all firms though), you need to have completed your LPC or almost completed and have prior work experience. At the start of my final term at university, I started looking for a paralegal position in Family Law. I successfully secured a post to start as soon as I finished my exams. This meant on Wednesday 8th May I had my last exam in Liverpool, and on Monday 13th May, I started my new job in Northamptonshire.
What does your current job involve?
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KARISHA YOUNG IS A LAW GRADUATE WHO NOW WORKS FOR MARIA FOGG FAMILY LAW IN A PARALEGAL POSITION WHICH IS SET TO LEAD TO A TRAINING CONTRACT
What aspects of your degree were particularly useful in the selection process? The aspect of my degree that was most relevant was the Employability and Business Skills Module that I completed in my second year. This was because we weren’t just taught the academic aspects of pursuing a career in law but also the practical aspects, which is very useful when it comes to the application process. This included practising the STAR method that many employers use, and networking with other solicitors, which gave me more contacts on LinkedIn and mock interview opportunities with real employers. Any other advice you would give to students about their employability? Use the Careers Zone for help and guidance, and always look out for volunteering opportunities as this impresses potential employers.
What help and support did you access in the Careers Zones? I received help with my CV. The adviser went through which sections needed improving, and also gave me advice on the job selection process, including techniques to prepare for these. What relevant work experience/ skills did you use during the selection process? My life skills from previous jobs and pro bono work with the Citizens Advice Bureau. What advice would you give to other students to improve their employability? My advice would be to access help and support from the Careers, Employability & Start-Up Team, make contacts by going to any networking events, and take the leap of faith by walking into different solicitors to see if they have any work placements coming up. If you’re a young student, show off your academic skills, if you are a mature student who has recently returned to education, use your life skills. Doing so will not only impress the employer, it will also make you stand out from the rest of the crowd.
Using the Law Society’s find a solicitor facility (available on their website) I searched for different companies emailing them a copy of my CV. Maria Fogg Family Law then asked me to come for an interview. Within the hour I received a phone call back to say I had been offered the job role. I prepared by considering the questions I may be asked during the interview process, being familiar with the company’s website and the policies they stand for. I also prepared by deciding my outfit and travel in advance in case of any disruptions.
Three things you like about your job: The upsides to family law include the opportunities to litigate in court and the collegiality of working in teams, and helping clients who have been in similar situations as myself.
What does your job involve?
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Would you do anything differently if you were a first-year student again? I would ensure I spent more time planning and researching for my essays and exams instead of rushing my final draft. I would also have planned my social, work and home life in advance. This saves you from feeling overwhelmed with the workload. And to believe you can do it!
What did the application/selection process involve and how did you prepare for each stage?
GRADUATE CASE STUDY SCHOOL OF LAW www.ljmu.ac.uk/studentfutures 6 CAREERS AND EMPLOYABILITY CASE STUDIES
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The job duties and responsibilities of paralegals in family law include: Preparing and drafting: pleadings, judgments, statements, documents, and other correspondence e.g. debt and asset lists, witness affidavits, child support worksheets, responsive pleadings, etc. Performing legal research Maintaining attorney calendars and case files Scheduling appointments, court appearances and mediation/ deposition hearings Serving as a liaison between the client and attorney, conducting client interviews Preparing trial notebooks and providing assistance in trial settings Maintaining effective communication with clients is a major responsibility of family law paralegals. In fact, much of their day is spent communicating with clients, because family law often involves emotionally charged issues such as child custody, child support and division of assets. Family law paralegals must have excellent interpersonal communication skills and must be capable of handling clients who may be anxious, upset, or distressed.
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For the role which I have just secured at Brown Barron, I was lucky in the fact that a family friend mentioned my name to the firm who were looking for a new trainee solicitor who grew up in the area, who had recently completed a law degree and achieved a high grade. I sent in my CV and was invited for an informal interview.
NAHIDA ULLAH COMPLETED A DEGREE IN FRENCH STUDIES AT UNIVERSITY OF LONDON IN PARIS, A MASTERS IN QUALIFYING LAW AND THE LEGAL PRACTICE COURSE AT LJMU SPOTLIGHT ON THE DIVERSITY ACCESS SCHEME SCHOOL OF LAWwww.ljmu.ac.uk/studentfutures 7CAREERS AND EMPLOYABILITY CASE STUDIES
GRADUATE DYLAN
The informal interview was a chat with two partners for us to get to know one another. I was lucky enough to be offered a role within a day. What help and support did you access in the Careers Zones? When applying for jobs/training contracts, I utilised the fantastic staff who work for the Careers, Employability & Start-Up Team at LJMU. This included sending my CV and cover letters to them for review so they could highlight areas for improvement. I also paid particular attention to any emails which were sent highlighting opportunities for work experience. It was an email from the Careers, Employability & Start-Up Team which gained me a week’s work experience at Fletchers Solicitors and without this, it is unlikely I would have been awarded a role at the firm. What advice would you give to other students to improve their employability? Networking is invaluable. I like many students wrongly dismissed just how invaluable this is in securing a graduate job. I had networked with a senior solicitor on LinkedIn and when I had an interview at Fletchers Solicitors, it just so happened to be with that same senior solicitor who even commented that she was impressed by the fact I was actively networking with professionals already working in the legal industry. What aspects of your degree were particularly useful in the selection process? Guest lectures were very helpful in giving insights into their firm/their role/their area of law. This allowed me to identify areas of law which appealed to me and those which did not appeal so much. Any other advice you would give to students about their employability? Fellow students and I received many rejections from a whole host of law firms. It is important to stay confident and never give up.
What does your job involve?
I handled a caseload of around 80 files in the medical negligence department at Fletchers Solicitors Ltd. I obtained medical records, drafted witness statements, instructed experts and drafted letters of claim as per the pre-action protocol for clinical disputes. In July 2018 I started a new role at Brown Barron where I will become a trainee solicitor upon successfully completing my LPC in summer 2019. My seats include property, local authority work, family law, and wills and probate. If all goes to plan, I will be a qualified solicitor by the age of 24.
Why did you decide to apply for the job at Fletchers?
In November 2016, I undertook a one-week work experience placement with Fletchers Solicitors at their head office in Southport. This was an invaluable insight into law in practice and also allowed me to network with employees of the firm in the hope that one day I would successfully gain a job at the firm. What did the application/selection process involve and how did you prepare for each stage? The application process for my role at Fletchers entailed a covering letter and CV for a role advertised on their website. I then attended an interview with a senior solicitor and a member of management. The questions varied from life experience questions, how I would positively impact the firm and what previous experiences have stood me in good stead to work in the legal industry.
LAW CALDWELL IS NOW WORKING AT BROWN BARRON WHERE HE WILL BECOME A TRAINEE SOLICITOR UPON COMPLETING THE LPC
As most law students know all too well, the legal field is highly competitive and ‘getting your foot in the door’ (a phrase that you will hear a lot!) is extremely difficult. After completing a Masters in Qualifying Law at LJMU in 2017, I was concerned about financing the Legal Practice Course and felt as though the odds were against me. Lo and behold, I received an email advertising the Law Society’s Diversity Access Scheme, which included a full LPC scholarship, a mentor scheme and opportunities for legal experience.
The application process included completing an essay about a legal topic, for which my tutor at the time kindly gave me direction (shout out to Bleddyn Davies, he makes Brexit interesting somehow). I also explained why I want to become a solicitor and gave a general picture of who I am and discussed the barriers that I have overcome to access higher education. The interview took place in London in front of a panel of judges and I cried (oops) but fought to continue answering questions. I was then given a work scenario and asked how I would manage the issue. I used all of my relevant past experiences to make the best impression that I could and hoped for the best. When I got the call a few weeks later to say that I had been successful, of course I cried again. This opportunity provided me with the support that I could not have received elsewhere. My mentor is a qualified family lawyer who has been so helpful and kind to me throughout the course and has given me direction and reassurance. I have secured a legal work placement in London with the Government Legal Department, which will include shadowing lawyers who draft parliamentary bills and visiting the Supreme Court (Disneyland for lawyers)! I have also attended a legal training day with the inhouse legal team at the Royal Bank of Scotland based in London and I have predominantly been provided with so many fantastic opportunities to network. Applying for this scheme is one of the best decisions that I have ever made and I am so grateful for the confidence and motivation it has given me. Forget about ‘foot in the door’, I say dive in head first and never let an opportunity pass, because the saddest thing in life is wasted talent (I stole that from A Bronx Tale).
Any other advice you would give to students about their employability?
The aspects of my degree that related well to real life occurrences were very useful when interviewing and networking. Paying attention to the little anecdotes in lectures where your lecturer highlights the effects of your topics to life around you. They make great talking points and demonstrate your understanding of your degree in the working world.
What does your job/graduate scheme involve?
What relevant work experience/skills did you use during the selection process? Outside of university I regularly participated in various charitable activities. This in itself allows for you to show yourself as well rounded and organised. Additionally, it allows for you to connect with people of differing expertise, cultures and experiences. This broadens your own horizons making you more personable and ultimately, more impressive in interviews.
RBS – The graduate programme consists of four six-month placements in different areas of the bank. The scheme is designed with the objective of advising small businesses how to adapt and progress with changes, including the introduction of new technology.
Exposure to various clients allows for great networking to explore potential future roles and the chance to create links with other contracting consultants from different companies. Again, this enhances your chances massively for future opportunities.
Why did you decide to apply for a graduate scheme? I enjoy hands-on learning and I like the idea of being able to potentially grow within a company. A graduate scheme allows for both these things.
What did the application/selection process involve and how did you prepare for each stage?
What help and support did you access in the Careers Zones?
At university, I attended a session regarding LinkedIn and also had a meeting on how to write my CV. Both of these were incredibly useful. My first job after graduation was a direct result of my use of LinkedIn. Previous to the session, I hadn’t the faintest clue of how LinkedIn worked, but once I used the knowledge I gained, I realised what a valuable resource it was.
At university I was a student representative for my cohort - this was a great talking point in interviews. What advice would you give to other students to improve their employability Try and break up the routine where possible by working part-time or volunteering. Organisation is key, however the benefits are undeniably worthwhile. This will enable you to build interpersonal skills, learn about the world and understand things from differing points of view. These skills are highly valued by employers and from my experience, allow for more confident interviews and general conversations. Would you do anything differently if you were a first-year student again? I think I would try not to stress myself out as much by worrying about achieving high grades. High grades are a natural result of working hard but also working smartly by tailoring your working style to what works for you. What aspects of your degree were particularly useful in the selection process?
JDX – Allowed me to gain experience which then helped me to impress in a later interview for a graduate scheme I was aiming for.
Essentially, if the scheme is within a company you have the ambition to work in, it is an invaluable foot in the door to explore where you fit best. Three things you like about your job:
Furthermore, if you are unsure about where you can see yourself working, a graduate scheme more often than not allows you to experience a company within different areas with a view to keeping you on in the future. This way, there’s an element of job security alongside the freedom of not necessarily being tied down to one department.
Finding a job can take time. Not just in the logistic sense of filling out applications and completing interviews or other stages, but in terms of building on experience so that you move from strength to strength and grow in confidence. Try not to become disheartened if you receive rejections or can’t find a role straightaway. As long as you continue to develop yourself and knock on doors, eventually the right one will open!
JDX – Outreached to different financial projects for various clients. My time here saw me work at Deutsche Bank on various tax-related projects over nine months. This included learning about applicable regulation, data cleansing, and outreaching to the Bank’s clients to obtain various pieces of information.
JDX – I applied through LinkedIn and received a call back from a recruiter who then gave me a preliminary interview on the spot. I was then later invited to a face-to-face interview with a manager at the Birmingham Tooffice.prepare, I ensured I knew my CV inside out. I then ensured I had considered different examples of past experiences that displayed various skills e.g. teamwork, organisation, passion for the field etc. This is a great way to get you in the mind set for competency-based interviews where you are asked to provide examples of various situations that demonstrate different skills.
To prepare I ensured I had examples ready that displayed the various skills I possess in order to showcase my employability. In particular, I tried to focus on why I was unique to ensure I was Furthermore,memorable.I researched the role in depth to ensure I understood it as much as possible - this helped to tailor my interview answers.
SABHIA HUSSAIN IS A 2017 LAW GRADUATE WHO WORKED AT JDX CONSULTING AFTER GRADUATING AND THEN STARTED ON THE GRADUATE PROGRAMME AT RBS IN 2018 GRADUATE CASE STUDY SCHOOL OF LAW www.ljmu.ac.uk/studentfutures 8 CAREERS AND EMPLOYABILITY CASE STUDIES
RBS – Initially I had to complete what was essentially an online CV detailing previous work experience and education history. I was then invited to sit numerous online tests which included logical reasoning and numerical Followingreasoning. the completion of different tests, I was asked to undertake a video interview in which the questions were pre-recorded.
JDX specifically hire graduates from various backgrounds which means I have been able to work alongside people from different disciplines. This creates quite a dynamic environment and I thoroughly enjoy the company of my colleagues.
Finally, I was invited to an assessment centre which consisted of different tasks over the course of a day. These included a one-to-one interview, a team task with other candidates, a written task and a further one-to-one role play in relation to the earlier team task.
Personally, learning how to construct a CV was something I always struggled with. The help I received enabled me to learn how to streamline my CV and make it more applicable/targeted.
Go postgrad YOURTRANSFORMFUTURE WITH STUDYPOSTGRADUATE For more information, go to: ljmu.ac.uk/postgraduate LJMU is great on employability. They help with your CV, assist with interview techniques and inform you of job opportunities. I know I will get to where I want to be. Karmela Lelek LPC
LYDIA DURKIN GRADUATED FROM THE LLB LAW (HONS) PROGRAMME IN 2015 AND IS CURRENTLY COMPLETING A TRAINING CONTRACT WITH CO-OP LEGAL SERVICES, QUALIFYING IN APRIL 2020. What does your current role involve?
Use all the help provided by the Careers, Employability & StartUp Team; they cover all recruitment methods that will be used by employers, so practising these before graduating is crucial.
❙ Gaining a better understanding of political issues and current affairs in the UK and internationally.
What help and support did you access from the Careers, Employability & Start-Up Team? I received a lot of help with my CV for my first role after university just before I graduated and also attended useful workshops on presentation skills, assessment centres and e-tray exercises.
❙ Knowing that my role contributes to society by helping vulnerable people. What did the application process involve?
What does your current role involve?
What advice would you give to other students to improve their employability? The best way to improve your employability while you are at university is to try and get as much legal work experience as possible. That could be through working in a law firm, at the university law centre or volunteering with the Citizens Advice Bureau. This will give you experience and examples for future applications and interviews.
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What did the application process involve and how did you prepare for each stage? I applied for the training contract at Co-op online and was invited to attend an assessment day in August 2017 at Co-op’s head office in Manchester (where I am now based). The day consisted of a group exercise, a preprepared presentation and a one-to-one interview. I wasn’t really able to prepare for the group exercise but I had done my research and was very conscious that it was in my own interest to speak up and to be proactive in driving the conversation. There were 10 of us in a group with a scenario requiring us to reach unanimous agreement on the course of action. It actually turned out to be quite a fun exercise! I based my presentation on homelessness, as it is a topic very close to my heart. I kept the presentation relatively engaging and short but concise and drew on examples of charities and volunteer work I had been involved in during my LPC and LLB.
GRADUATE CASE STUDY SCHOOL OF LAW www.ljmu.ac.uk/studentfutures 10 CAREERS AND EMPLOYABILITY CASE STUDIES
The aim of my role is to manage immigration appeals effectively so that they proceed to a final hearing in an appropriate manner. I have a lot of responsibility in my role as I have to use delegated judicial functions to deal with a variety of applications from a range of parties, such as; adjournment requests, expedite requests, transfer requests, withdrawal requests, statutory abandonments and out of time appeals. The role is perfect for me, as I wanted to gain experience in the public sector, and I saw working with judges in a different area of law as a new challenge.
During your degree and especially towards the end of your degree you should be getting involved in networking events, careers fairs and extracurricular activities such as student societies. In addition, most employers want prospective candidates to be commercially aware. Therefore, it is vital to have a basic knowledge of the commercial practices of businesses, and more specifically, the types of businesses you are interested in applying to. Keeping up to date with the news is also a good way to stay commercially aware. Would you do anything differently if you were a first-year student again? I would join a student society to become part of a team and gain experience in an activity I had an interest in. I would also start researching different career pathways early and try to narrow these down to have a better idea of what I needed to do before leaving university to secure a job in that sector.
Three things you like about your job: Being able to help clients and provide them with advice, offering comfort and assurance during stressful times. Opportunities to work my way up within the legal profession. Networking with a wide variety of professionals.
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What help and support did you access from the Careers, Employability & Start-Up Team? During my penultimate year at university, I was very focused on securing a graduate legal role. I contacted the Careers, Employability & Start-Up Team and arranged a few meetings to discuss interview tactics and perfecting my CV. I also attended sessions on preparing for a training contract assessment day and a brilliant session on perfecting your LinkedIn profile, which taught me the vital importance of ensuring you have a strong LinkedIn profile. What advice would you give to other students to improve their employability? Maximise the spare time you have at university. As a student, I volunteered at the Citizens Advice Bureau, had a part-time job, and seized the opportunity to go on an Erasmus placement for three months in Malaga, amongst a variety of other opportunities. Think about what interests you have and what you can get involved with in order to stand out from other candidates when applying for roles. Although it is important to get good grades, you also need to build up experience from pro-bono and volunteering opportunities. Networking is also key. When applying for work experience and graduate roles, resilience is essential. Try to maintain a positive and proactive attitude, even when it may feel as though you are drowning in hundreds of applications and rejections, as the right position will come up.
❙ Being involved in the HMCTS reform project, specifically digitalising the immigration appeals process.
The first stage was the written application of five competency-based questions. The interview process included two parts, a written assessment and a panel interview. For the 30-minute written assessment, I had to read certain parts of the Procedure Rules and apply the delegated powers of a tribunal caseworker to the examples given. I had to explain my answers to the panel of interviewers. They also asked further questions about my competency-based answers from the written application.
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Three things you like about your job:
As a trainee solicitor, my typical day-to-day duties are predominantly desk-based. A brief example of my daily duties include: attending conferences and drafting minutes, interviewing clients and drafting witness statements, liaising with clients, drafting court papers, complying with court deadlines and on some occasions attending court with Counsel. I have a balance of some of my own files whilst still assisting senior colleagues with various files.
2015 LLB LAW (HONS) GRADUATE ELLE JACKSON SECURED AN INTERESTING ROLE AS A TRIBUNAL CASEWORKER – MANCHESTER IMMIGRATION AND ASYLUM TRIBUNAL FOR HER MAJESTY’S COURTS AND TRIBUNALS SERVICE.
What does your job role involve?
BETHANY WRIGHT GRADUATED FROM THE LLM QUALIFYING LAW IN 2018 AND JOINED THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE AS A PARALEGAL. SHE HAS ALSO RECENTLY SECURED A PUPILLAGE.
❙ The work environment: the people I work with are exceptional and this has such a positive impact.
I feel students should access support, especially around assessment centres as they are being used a lot more.
CASE STUDY
GRADUATE
My role is split between the legal department and the contact centre.
What did the application process involve?
Firstly, I completed my training stage which involved placements, personal safety training and legal study. Since August 2017, I have taken on the role of a constable in the Tameside division of Manchester, under the supervision of a tutor. I am also studying for a Diploma in Policing within my training.
❙ The variety of my duties: this allows me to continue to develop my skills across a broad range and I like that no two days are the same.
What help or support did you access from the Careers, Employability & Start-Up Team at LJMU? I attended all the careers lectures that were provided by LJMU and I found that helpful in terms of identifying job options related to my degree and what to expect during the application and selection process.
When I am supporting the legal department, my duties include preparing court bundles, assisting fee earners, conducting legal research, and opening and closing cases. In the contact centre, I deal directly with clients and facilitators, communicate with solicitors and the court, cover contact sessions, and process invoices. Both roles involve documenting all work on a legal database.
What advice would you give other students to improve their employability? In your first year, settle in and once you develop an interest for a particular subject, have a go at a couple of weeks’ work experience to make your face known; from there you can volunteer to gain more experience over longer time periods. Additionally, get involved in networking events to gather information about options with your degree.
❙ The organisation’s ethos of representing the child’s thoughts, feelings and wishes matches my own values. This aligned with my previous experience working with looked after children (LAC), care leavers (CLs) and those with special educational needs.
From my Qualifying Law degree, the experience I gained in the Legal Advice Clinic was brilliant. This involved shadowing an experienced family law solicitor, who provided free legal advice to clients. I learnt conference skills and professional conduct in action, which I was able to mention in my interview. The Law School also has connections with the Personal Support Unit at the Liverpool Civil Family Court, which I was involved with. This opportunity gave me real, tangible experience in the Court and it developed my client care skills like no other. In a recent pupillage interview, I was asked a question about dealing with angry or emotional clients, and I was able to draw upon the experience I have gained there to demonstrate how I deal with those sorts of situations. I subsequently secured the pupillage. What advice would you give to other students to improve their employability? Take opportunities with enthusiasm and see where they lead. You also need to be able to clearly explain and show employers how and why you are employable. It is not enough to tell a potential employer you are, for instance, responsible: the experience you have gained will provide the required tangible evidence. Maintain a healthy work-life balance. Whatever interest or passion you have going on outside of your studies or profession, remember to take the time to enjoy that. Employers want to see that you are able to socialise both in and outside of the workplace and that you have a balance to your life. Your interests can also provide a talking-point for interviews, which may just be the detail that makes you stand out from the crowd.
What did the application/selection process involve? After submitting an application along with a CV, I was invited for a telephone interview and asked three questions related to policing that I could evidence from my own experience. For the next stage, I completed an assessment centre which lasted around five to six hours, where I had a competency-based interview, maths and English assessments, role play exercises and psychometric tests. After this I was invited to an interview, where I focused on showing my experience and how I would apply this to being a police officer. After my interview I was given a conditional offer of employment, subject to vetting, medical and fitness.
GRADUATE CASE STUDY SCHOOL OF LAWwww.ljmu.ac.uk/studentfutures 11CAREERS AND EMPLOYABILITY CASE STUDIES
What does your role involve?
What help and support did you access from the Careers, Employability & Start-Up Team? I accessed support from the team when I studied for my English degree at LJMU (2009-12). This involved guidance on my next steps and advice on my CV. The advice was invaluable and they pointed out things I had not considered. What relevant work experience and skills did you discuss during the selection process?
I volunteered with Blackburn and Darwen Borough Council where I gave presentations to LAC and CLs and also volunteered with the Student Advice and Wellbeing Team at LJMU, delivering presentations about support available for CLs and estranged students at LJMU. In both roles, I represented CLs and I drew upon my own experiences. I was also a Student Advocate during my undergraduate and postgraduate degrees at LJMU and I used these experiences to show evidence of leadership. Referring to the transferrable skills I had developed throughout my degrees and professional life (like research and analysis, communication, adaptability, empathy and professional conduct) also helped to demonstrate my suitability for the role. What aspects of your degree were particularly useful in the selection process?
Three things you like about your job:
I was very fortunate that this role came about through contacts I had made – it is worth noting that you never know when an opportunity may arise from a chance encounter. The formal procedure involved an interview with the assistant CEO (Legal) after I had sent her my CV. I began working at NYAS as a temporary Legal Administrator over the summer prior to commencing the Bar Professional Training Course in 2018. I was then promoted to the role of paralegal, which involved an additional interview. My role has developed to incorporate supporting contact services, as the needs of the organisation have changed and I have adapted accordingly.
HEATHER EASTON IS AN LLB LAW GRADUATE WHO NOW WORKS AS A CONSTABLE FOR GREATER MANCHESTER POLICE
Working within a top 20 international law firm has not only taught me about the commercial side of law but has helped me develop vital skills that are required to pursue a career in the legal sector. My placement has undeniably improved my written and verbal communication skills, my ability to manage and organise a workload and my ability to analyse important information. It is widely known that a career in law is extremely competitive so having a year’s experience working within a firm of solicitors has undoubtedly enhanced the opportunities that will become available to me once I have finished my studies. It was difficult trying to decide whether or not to pursue a placement year knowing that all of my friends would be graduating a year before me; however, it was easily the best decision I have ever made.
LLB STUDENT THOMAS HURLEY TELLS US ABOUT HIS SANDWICH PLACEMENT AT DWF SCHOOL OF LAW www.ljmu.ac.uk/studentfutures 12 CAREERS AND EMPLOYABILITY CASE STUDIES
Why did you decide to apply for your postgraduate course?
Neil Diamond (graduated 2016), Solicitor at Security Industry Authority Harriet Clayton (graduated 2017), Winner of the Liverpool Law Society Rupert Bremner prize 2017 and Trainee at DLA Piper
It was also my responsibility to liaise between our clients and their customers, which was always a challenge as each case was unique and subject to the customers’ financial circumstances. During my placement I learnt a lot about how a commercial law firm operates and it provided me with an invaluable experience that I can take with me when pursuing a career in law. Outside of work, the firm organised plenty of social events where on at least ten occasions an open bar was provided which was always favourable. My placement enabled me to network and socialise with many professionals who ultimately shared their previous experiences with me and advised on what routes to take which are desirable to a law firm.
“LJMU is an excellent academic institution with an outstanding support system and wonderful legal team. I recommend the LPC at LJMU to anyone considering undertaking the course as I truly believe the quality of teaching and level of support available are the reasons for my success!”
LLB LAW GRADUATE GOVINDER CHAMBAY COMPLETED AN LLM INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS CORPORATE AND FINANCE LAW
My intended career path is to practise as a barrister at the Bar of England & Wales. As my module choices left me a little short in terms of substantive research areas, particularly those related to commercial law, a Masters in International Business Corporate and Finance Law offered me the opportunity to fill the gaps in my legal knowledge. Moreover, as a Masters is research-based, which the bar is renowned for, this also aligned with my future career path. How have you benefited from your involvement in extracurricular activities? I have benefited immensely from my participation in legal extracurricular activities. This has provided invaluable networking opportunities by allowing me exposure to legal professionals. Alongside this, mooting, ADR and debating competitions have not only allowed me to develop my public speaking skills, but have proven themselves a fantastic way of demonstrating commitment to my future career path. Regarding previous work experience, following graduation I worked as a paralegal in a regional solicitors firm that specialised in insolvency. This has proved to be an invaluable asset, as this has allowed me to demonstrate industry relevant knowledge and skills when being interviewed. Would you do anything differently in terms of career planning if you were a first-year undergraduate student again? I would certainly begin planning my career within my first year. You have greater potential to succeed in your academic studies when they are given meaning and purpose regarding your intended career path. Furthermore, I would certainly have made greater efforts to build a strong CV from the very beginning.
PLACEMENT CASE STUDY
“I loved the LPC at LJMU. The facilities in the Redmonds Building are first rate, and the course tutors were fantastic. Not only do they bring in-depth knowledge to the subjects, but also practical real-world experience. Highly recommended!”
What are your plans after finishing your postgraduate programme? From September, I am studying the BPTC at BPP Manchester. I have recently secured a scholarship award from The Inner Temple of over 19k which will make an invaluable contribution towards my BPTC fees and living expenses. My extracurricular activities and work experience played a crucial role in securing the scholarship award.
The idea of taking a year out of university to complete a placement within a highly respectable and commercial law firm seemed extremely daunting at first. But then I realised that it was in my best interest to obtain some valuable legal experience which is sought by the majority of law firms today. During my placement I worked with such a supportive and diverse group of people who basically introduced me to what life is like working within a commercial environment. It was always my duty to act in the best interests of our clients, which meant completing numerous tasks on a day-to-day basis. As part of my role within the team, I was responsible for preparing a variety of documents which would be used in court, such as claim forms and witness statements etc.
POSTGRADUATE CASE STUDY
Harriet Edwards, Solicitor at
“My time at LJMU was first and foremost really good fun! I studied the course part-time and I found managing the workload, alongside working full-time as a paralegal, manageable and there was plenty of guidance available from the tutors. I was at university one full day a week with classmates with whom I made really excellent friendships. The course itself was very well-structured, the classes were engaging with patient and experienced tutors and the electives were varied. I obtained a distinction, but I couldn’t have achieved that without the help of the tutors.”
Weightmans in Manchester SCHOOL OF LAWwww.ljmu.ac.uk/studentfutures 13CAREERS AND EMPLOYABILITY CASE STUDIES Lifelong alumni membership www.LJMUConnect.com LJMU Connect, the home of our alumni community, gives you the tools to: Import your LinkedIn or Facebook profile to register today at: (Re)connect Stay in touch with your friends wherever life takes you Get ahead Boost your professional network and find the people you need to know Get involved Hear about and attend social/networking events, reunions & lectures Give back Share your top tips with current students and inspire future graduates
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