Starting a training contract virtually is becoming the norm - many trainees, including myself, started or will start their training contracts virtually which is a very new experience. Here are some of my tips:
Enjoy the start - this is not to say that you shouldn’t or wouldn’t enjoy the rest but at the very start of your TC, enjoy those ‘baby steps’ this new experience, and BIG achievement. This moment will soon be over and it is your chance to ask questions about your learning, how you will be supported, what opportunities you can get involved in - the whole lot. Meet new people, sign up to virtual events, find out what the latest news is within your departments or the firm as a whole.
Embrace the learning process - everyday I try to remind myself that I am learning and will continue to do so for a very, very long time. When you receive a task, ask about what resources you can use to help you, is there a different matter you can have a look at for reference, who your colleagues will be, when the deadline is. The feedback process is a humbling and extremely useful one, take advantage of it!
Ask for feedback - I’m sure there will be some sort of formal feedback process in place but if there isn’t, ask your supervisor for a scheduled meeting in the diary where you can discuss what work you were involved in for that week/month, what went well, what to improve on and what skills you are developing - this helps immensely and always ends up being a nice catch up with your colleagues!
If you’re on a call with a client and you don’t know the answer, say something like “I’ll check that for you and get back to you in an email if that’s okay..?” Your client will appreciate it more that you are verifying information as opposed to telling them something incorrect! This isn’t the same as being in the office and (possibly) saying “one minute please” whilst you can consult your supervisor.
(try to) Keep your Training Diary up to date weekly or every fortnight - this can be 3-4 entries per week with the skills developed and work completed for specific client matters or any training and development. I have shared a blog post with the SRA template of the diary.
Focus on each day as it comes - some days will go your way, other days won’t - focus on each day! This links to my first point too, enjoy it as much as you can and when you feel as though you are getting tired or can’t handle something - speak to someone, have an honest conversation (we’re all human and work/learn differently)
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