How do I prepare for a virtual vacation scheme?

Virtual events have become the norm in many industries, and law firms are no different. Plenty have started conducting virtual vacation schemes as a way for candidates to gain experience of legal life, while reducing health risks. This might not the experience you imagined when you first embarked upon your legal career journey, but there are many benefits to a virtual scheme  – no commute, improved self-discipline – and it’s well worth channelling your energy into ensuring it is a success.  

What does a vacation scheme involve?

A vacation scheme is essentially work experience for aspiring solicitors. It allows you to learn whether a law career is right for you, and for the firm to learn whether you are a good fit for them. If you impress the firm, you might even be offered a training contract. 

The structure of your programme and the amount of responsibility you are given, will vary depending on the firm. However, typical tasks include: shadowing a trainee solicitor, attending talks about the firm’s ethos, completing legal research and meeting clients. The firm will also hold informal events allowing you to socialise with senior lawyers in a relaxed environment., even if it’s virtually.  

What can I do before my vacation scheme starts?

Before you begin your vacation scheme, do a bit of research about the firm and its culture. It’s also a good idea to read over what you wrote down on your application. Vacation schemes tend to involve talks about the firm’s history and its goals, and you’ll make a great first impression if the speaker asks a question that you know the answer to.

It’s also important to ensure that you have a good working space: it’s best not to work in bed, although it’s comfortable! You should also make sure your personal device is working properly and has done all the necessary updates, and that your wifi connection is strong.

If you think it will be difficult to work in your own home (for instance, due to  poor wifi or noisy siblings), you might want to find somewhere else to work. If you’ve got a close friend or family member living nearby, why not ask them if you can complete your vacation scheme there? Working somewhere else may give you the peace and quiet you need, as well as enforcing separation between work and home. 

That said, firms will probably not allow you to work in a cafe or library (or anywhere with public wifi), due to data protection concerns.

What should I keep in mind during my vacation scheme?

Although you might think that a virtual vacation scheme is easier than an in-person one, remember that the same rules apply. Be sure to arrive on time (preferably earlier) to meetings, and make sure you’re dressed appropriately. It can be tempting to wear a professional top and more casual bottoms, but you never know when you might need to stand up while on a call. 

During a virtual vacation scheme, it can be more challenging to connect with everyone in the office, so you’ll need to put a bit of extra effort into it. Why not create a group chat with your fellow vacation scheme candidates, to discuss how you’re all finding the experience? Or, if you attended an especially interesting talk, why not email the speaker asking if you can talk one-to-one? It’s all about taking the initiative and putting yourself out there. 

Although virtual vacation schemes can be challenging, they provide you with the chance to intern at any law firm that interests you, regardless of distance. If you take this advice into consideration, you’ll find your virtual vacation scheme a breeze. 

Virtual Vacation Schemes

• Do law firms value virtual work experience as highly as in-office vacation schemes?
• How are virtual vacation schemes different?
• How do I apply for a virtual vacation scheme?
• What is a virtual vacation scheme?