When I made my applications for law firms, I knew that I wanted a firm which not only had a prominent practice in my areas of interest of Tech and IP, but also represented the values that were important for me personally as a first-generation state schooled individual.
From research, to application, to the vacation scheme itself, it became abundantly clear to me that Taylor Wessing would be the right fit for my aspirations. I was impressed by the firm’s attitude, and the enthusiasm for it showed by the trainees in the ‘innovative and forward-thinking’ mindset the firm engenders. I knew that first and foremost; this was a firm which greatly appreciated diversity of thought and experiences in delivering towards its innovative client base.
My vacation scheme showed me that not only would I get a chance to work in practice areas I was interested in, but also that I would be able to complete high quality work for high-profile clients alongside industry experts which were fountains of specialist knowledge in their areas. After getting a taste of this during the vacation scheme, I cannot wait for the excellent learning opportunities in my training contract.
The application process for the vacation scheme began with a form heavily focusing on linking your experiences back to Taylor Wessing’s core values, demonstrating how you represent them. It was clear throughout that Taylor Wessing takes their values seriously, looking for these qualities of excellence, respect, creativity, integrity, team-working, and responsibility in every candidate. Following a successful application was the assessment centre, which included interactive tasks letting the firm not only delve into your abilities, but your personality. It showed the firm cared about individuality and approach in handpicking their talent.
The assessment centre followed, and comprised of a critical thinking test, group exercise, commercial interview and a competency interview. The Early Talent team and the Taylor Wessing interviewers all made the experience extremely comfortable and fair. Regardless of if you were speaking to a partner or a trainee, everyone was approachable and friendly which really eased the pressure of the AC.
The scheme itself was a fantastic two-week experience which not only taught me about the firm and the work it does, but also taught me about myself, solidifying what I wanted in an employer I aspire to build a career with.
I rotated between the Technology, IP and Media team and the Corporate Finance team for week one and two respectively. The firm were fair in trying to allocate everyone their desired seats and gave us a trainee buddy for each seat. Despite my practice areas operating in different parts of the legal sector, the same Taylor Wessing approach throughout was evident in how the firm strives for excellence to serve their clients.
I got to sit within the firm’s ‘sectors of tomorrow’ and saw how Taylor Wessing’s sector-focused approach has given the firm its respected standing. It was clear that the work done across the practice is always done with the client’s needs first. Even though we only sat in two seats, the Early Talent team organised a full spectrum of ‘Focus On’ sessions, which were talks ensuring we could hear from every part of the practice and ask questions.
I was thrilled to see that same friendliness and approachability from the AC across every aspect of Taylor Wessing’s day-to-day. I had countless opportunities to speak with enthusiastic trainees and partners about all the firm’s social mobility work. If they were free, they would happily grab a coffee with you in the firm’s rooftop restaurant. The scheme had great socials for us to get to know everyone better too, including mini-golf and dinner at the end of the scheme.
Highlights were the approachable culture, social mobility conversations, learning and getting to work on exciting matters, and being invited to the team social. Taylor Wessing is an incredible firm which is true to its marketing. I’d highly recommend anyone interested to apply.
