QLS GUIDELINES

FIRM EVENT NIGHTS If you are invited for an interview, the firm will usually host a function at their offices. This is a great opportunity to network with your potential co-workers but also find out more about the firm you may be working at. These events are designed for recruiters to see you in a more relaxed environment and also how you interact with others.

Some good tips for this:

1. Make sure you arrive on time 2. Dress for the occasion, it will usually be corporate attire 3. Try to talk to as many people as possible, particularly firm representatives 4. If there is alcohol available, make sure you know your limit 5. Remember that the firm has invited you for a reason, be yourself and have fun!

INTERVIEW Finally there is the all important interview. The purpose of an interview is to show that you would be a good ‘fit’ for the firm. This is your chance to show that you are the right choice. If you make it to this stage you can be satisfied that the firm is interested in you on paper, but now you have to prove that you belong at that firm. This may be conducted in an individual or a group setting and may have multiple rounds. Whatever the case, always keep in mind that this is your chance to sell yourself and leave the interviewers with no doubt that you are the best fit for the role. Feel free to check out our more detailed interview tips on page 21.

If you are one of the lucky few who get a clerkship at that firm - congratulations! You will be part of an organisation that will give you an amazing scope of new knowledge and skills.

However, if you are not lucky enough to be able to secure a clerkship, don’t stress! Success in the legal industry comes in many different shapes and sizes. Whilst being a clerk provides you with a higher chance of securing a graduate position, there are still alternative pathways to pursue.

GRADUATE POSITIONS

A graduate position is a full-time employment opportunity that commences after your graduation date. Graduate positions are usually offered to students who have previously clerked at the firm, however, many firms also recruit through an open market process. A graduate position is the perfect job to begin your legal career as you are often paired with a mentor or ‘buddy’ for a certain period of time. This mentor can guide you through any difficulties you may face.

Applications for graduate positions for many firms open in August this year for intake at the start of the following year. Although this time of year is very common for graduate applications, it is important to remember that graduate positions can arise at any time. If you are unsuccessful in obtaining a graduate position in a top-tier firm, it may be useful to keep an eye out for any opportunities that may arise at mid-tier and boutique law firms.

Like clerkships, if you are unsuccessful in securing a graduate opportunity, don’t stress! There is always an alternate pathway to where you want to go.

Clerkship and graduate programs can often be an incredibly daunting time - you’re heading out into the real world of legal practice. Unlike an episode of Suits, clerks and graduates don’t always come prepared for what the job may throw at them. Although you won’t have Louis Litt scolding you for poor performance and inefficiency, it is always better to come into a new position with knowledge and tips.

QLS GUIDELINES

2020 RELEVANT TIMELINES: The Queensland Law Society (QLS) provides guidelines for graduate employment and vacation clerkships. The majority of firms comply with the QLS timeline for recruitment fairness. Make sure you check your firm’s specific dates.

Monday, 2 March Applications open Monday, 18 May Offers made for vacation clerkships

Friday, 27 March Applications close at 5 PM AEST

Tuesday, 19 May Accept/decline offers for vacation clerkships at 5 PM AEST