Bright Network is well known for connecting students and graduates with opportunities in the industries they want to enter.
Throughout the year, they host events such as the Bright Network Festival and Women in Business. On 12 September I attended the Bright Network First Year Lawyers Top 100.
This event brought together one hundred first-year law students who were interested in commercial law and gave them the chance to hear from panels and take part in structured networking with several major City law firms.
The event was free to attend, and even if it had not been, I would still say it was worth going.
The day began with success stories from a recent Linklaters trainee and a third-year law student who had previously attended Bright Network events. They spoke about their career journeys, what they were involved in and how they approached applications. This was followed by a panel of lawyers from different firms who answered questions about interviews, the qualities they look for in candidates and general advice for new trainees.
The structured networking session placed students into small groups that rotated around the room.
Each group spent a set amount of time with each firm. This format gave us the chance to ask questions and learn about the firms directly from trainees and associates. It was a useful opportunity to demonstrate research, ask focused questions and gain insight into the culture and work of each firm.
I found this type of networking particularly helpful. It allowed me to practise opening conversations and asking questions without the pressure of approaching people alone. It also gave me access to information that is not always available online.
Application process
To attend a Bright Network event, you need to apply, but the process is simple. You submit your CV and complete a short form on their website. I recommend tailoring your CV to the opportunity because the programme is competitive.
How I prepared
Most students prepared by researching the firms and creating short profiles.
This preparation will be useful later when applying for vacation schemes and training contracts. I looked up each firm’s mission statement, recent news, major clients, hiring process and senior leadership. I also wrote a list of questions and topics to mention in conversation.
I kept shorthand notes in a small notepad and stored a more detailed version in Google Docs on my phone. The notepad was more than enough for the day.
What I learned
The panels and conversations with trainees taught me a lot. These were the most important points.
Understand what you want from your career and what you value before you start researching firms. Knowing the areas you are interested in and the culture you want helps you focus on firms that suit you.
Try different areas while you are at university, so you gain experience and a clearer idea of what you enjoy. Extracurriculars are helpful, but choose ones you genuinely like and do not let them overwhelm your academics.
Legal work experience is not essential. Transferable skills from part-time jobs or volunteering are valuable. You need experience that shows initiative, communication and teamwork. Legal experience helps, but it is not the only route.
Start networking early. Build your personal brand, contacts and relationships as soon as you can because they will support you throughout your career.
Communication is vital. Develop your communication and teamwork skills early, which is why extracurriculars matter.
Was the event worth it
In my view, the event was absolutely worth attending.
I learned a great deal about career development and personal branding. It also gave me practical networking experience that would have been difficult to gain elsewhere.
It was a chance to meet students from different backgrounds and at different stages in their journey. Some were committed to commercial law, others were exploring options before starting university. I even met someone who would later be on my course.
Applications open in summer. If you have the chance to attend, I recommend going. The event is free, although you will need to cover travel costs. The insight into firm culture and hiring processes alone makes it worthwhile.
Firms in attendance
Addleshaw Goddard, Clyde and Co LLP, Macfarlanes, Reed Smith, Slaughter and May, Osborne Clarke, Norton Rose Fulbright
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