My First Three Months as a Trainee Solicitor

Translating the skills that you have learned throughout your time at university and into a working environment can at times can be challenging, however, it is extremely rewarding. Despite this, it can make the beginning of your legal career feel as though you are jumping in the deep end at times. In this article, Harry McMenemy reflects on his thoughts on his first three months with the Private Client Team at Gilson Gray. He also highlights the biggest lessons that he has learned since commencing his traineeship.

1) Be Proactive, not reactive

The biggest lesson that I have learned so far in during my traineeship is to try and be proactive, not reactive. By this, I mean you need to try and always be thinking ahead to what the next steps are for your tasks. This message can apply to both clients and also with your colleagues. In regards to clients, it is important to always be considering what is needed to keep matters progressing, and how best to manage your time. For example, responding to client queries and chasing further instruction rather than on waiting instruction from your supervisor. This would ensure that your matters are progressing and it would save your supervisor’s time in terms of always having to instruct you. Regarding colleagues, they really appreciate the times when you have the capacity to take on more work and communicate this to them. As a trainee, you are there to help support the more experienced members of the team – it will not go unnoticed using your initiative to ask your colleagues if they need help to manage their workload.

2) There is no such thing as a stupid question

During my time at university, we had a seminar from a guest speaker who highlighted this message. Going into an office environment, I have realised how true it really is. You are sat beside colleagues who have years of experience and knowledge at their disposal. It would be silly to not try and pick their brains to enhance your own knowledge. You are always learning as a trainee, so it would, therefore, be remiss of you to not use the colleagues sat beside you to enhance your own learning.

3) Effective Communication

This message may come across as obvious, however, it is the simple things that can sometimes be missed. This is an essential skill which is fundamental to your learning as a trainee. I believe it is important to try and think of things from the client’s point of view. For example, if a client doesn’t hear from you, it may make them think that they have been forgotten about and matters are not progressing, however, a simple email informing them of the work you have been carrying out and what the next steps are would solve this issue. I have found having tracker which highlights your last communication with clients as an effective tool to ensure that you are always organised enough to ensure you are effectively cooperating with clients.

I personally came from working predominantly in the hospitality industry and have transitioned into this role within the office environment. This no doubt comes with its challenges which you may take for granted if you have not done this journey. However, it is vital to recognise that you are always learning and developing your skillset. It’s also important to always remember that as you grow in a professional setting, as will your confidence. Lastly, I’d encourage you to be open minded, you have no idea where the profession may take you.

Applications for the 2027 Gilson Gray Traineeship Programme are now open. You can find out more and apply here.