Davitt Jones Bould, the largest specialist real estate law firm in the UK, have opened their Undergraduate Placement applications. They have written for us about their placement opportunities and provided some application advice too.
The placement is truly like no other as we deliberately don’t put you through a structured programme. Instead, you will be working in line with the real-time demands of the business, giving you experience of what running a business is really like.
You will work directly with a talented team of Davitt Jones Bould people, including colleagues in the Business Services Centre, lawyers based all over the UK and Davitt Jones Bould’s leadership team. You will be given responsibility straightaway for a wide range of tasks – some will play to your strengths, and some will challenge you to learn new skills.
You will be provided with dedicated on the job mentoring and training, as well as access to Davitt Jones Bould’s wider training programmes and courses.
To find out more information about undergraduate placements and apply today, click here.
Our current Undergraduate Placement student, Daniel Adams, shares his top tips on how to ace your applications:
During my university years, like many students, I dedicated significant time to applying for internships and placements. Through a mix of successes and setbacks, I gained valuable insights into what truly works in the application process and what pitfalls to avoid. I have spoken with hiring managers at many large corporations and compiled a list of what I have learnt to help you with your applications.
Virtual interviews
The next stage of Davitt Jones Bould’s process (after submitting a CV and cover letter), was a short virtual interview. Since COVID-19, virtual interviews have become the norm, with 82% of employers now using them. These are essentially the companies first proper impression of you, and 30% of interviewers make their decision within the first 5 minutes. Therefore, it’s essential you make a positive first impression. If this is a short interview like mine was, it’s essential to be concise, direct and likeable.
Try to showcase the extent of your knowledge and experience as best you can. I also personally felt that having prepared a couple of intriguing, personalised questions about the company or position helped significantly. Not only does this show the interviewer that you’re genuinely curious, but it also gives you more insight into the role.
Other virtual interview tips include:
- Dressing professionally: This shows you’re taking the interview seriously and indicates your readiness for the role, which creates a good first impression.
- Checking your background before you record: A clean background prevents distractions and creates a more polished and presentable environment.
- Remember to smile: This shows that you’re friendly, enthusiastic, and approachable, whilst setting a positive tone which builds a positive rapport.
- Maintain eye contact: This can be done by looking more at the camera than at the screen as it creates a connection and shows your engagement.
- Ensure you are in a quiet place that won’t be disturbed: This allows you to devote your full attention to the interview and shows you’re prepared.
- Test your internet connection, audio and video are working well in advance: This shows that you’re organised and proactive, and that you respect their time.
The placement application process is challenging, but with preparation, professionalism, and the right mindset, you can succeed at every stage.
The most important advice is to do your research, maintain professionalism; and consider how things look from the recruiter’s perspective.
Stay in touch with Davitt Jones Bould
This blog is part of a series written by Daniel:
Further advice from the Careers Service
Get more support for virtual interviews on the Careers Service website.
If you have any questions writing your application, interviews, assessment centres or anything else relating to careers, you can speak to us on live chat, or pop in to 5 Tyndall Avenue.
Small Business, Big Opportunity (SBBO)
SBBO is a new event series which will be running across the year which gives students the chance to meet local small to medium enterprises and network/secure future employment.
There is so much value in working for a smaller organisation and you can gain and develop so many skills which will kickstart your career. By going to these events, you can meet with smaller employers like Davitt Jones Bould, ask questions and find out more about the sector you wish to enter.
Look our for SBBO events on mycareer – there will be panels and presentations throughout the year.