I thought it would be good to dispel any negative thoughts and remind you that this is a fantastic opportunity to really show what you’re capable of – give it your all!

Ask yourself the two key questions

While the tendency when applying for traineeships is to rush applications and apply for every vacancy going, it is vital to ask yourself the following questions:

1. Why should Morton Fraser employ you as a trainee?

This question provides you with an opportunity to look at the values which are at the heart of Morton Fraser and demonstrate the way in which you can help the firm to realise these. Use this as a way to showcase various academic, social and work-related examples which exhibit the skills and qualities essential to a successful Morton Fraser employee. It is helpful to use the STAR (Situation, Task, Application, Result) method both in your application form and during the interview process to help you fully explain each example. Remember, as you’ve no doubt heard countless times, a generic application will not cut it – tailor your application and make sure that you stand out from the crowd.

      2. Why do you want to work for Morton Fraser?

The traineeship application process is as much about you finding a firm that you’ll thrive in as it is a firm finding a well- suited trainee. It is therefore imperative that you research the different practice areas of law within Morton Fraser, it’s culture, size, the location of its offices and overall whether you think that you would fit in within the firm. There is no point including any fabrications within your application to make you look like a suitable candidate if this is not the case. You have worked hard at university and it’s important to be true to yourself.

“Failing to prepare is preparing to fail”

That old quote no doubt used by countless school teachers across the country could not be more accurate  in the traineeship recruitment process. Before going to any assessment day  or interview make sure you have done as much research as possible into the firm so that you can demonstrate your interest and enthusiasm about a potential traineeship. It is important to look through the website, read any blogs which may be of interest to you and overall have something to discuss when you are being asked questions by the firm’s partners.  It is also very useful to look at external factors which may influence Morton Fraser’s success and be able to give your own opinion on the commercial setting in which the business sits. Thorough preparation will reduce your nerves, increase your confidence, and help you perform to your maximum potential.

Have faith in yourself

This may be the most important tip of all.  It is completely normal to have nerves before going into any interview, particularly for a position that you have spent at least 5 years at university in preparation for. Please remember that the Morton Fraser interview is designed to get the best out of you and give you the opportunity to demonstrate what a fantastic trainee you can be, it is not intended to cause you stress or trip you up. If you have got to the interview stage then you are good enough to be a Morton Fraser trainee and need to seize the opportunity to demonstrate this. Remember, confidence is key.

Take a deep breath, focus on your strengths and go for it.

This is your time to shine.

For more information about our traineeships, visit our dedicated page.