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Shoosmiths

Insider reviews

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Get the inside view from graduates at Shoosmiths

8.8 / 10 Overall Satisfaction
(based on 11 ratings in 2019)
"A firm with a great culture and masses of potential."
Culture
9.5 / 10
 
Formal Training
8.4 / 10
 
Informal Training & Mentoring
8.2 / 10
 
Offices & Dress
8.1 / 10
 
Hours
8.7 / 10
 
Salary
7.1 / 10
 
Green Initiatives
8.0 / 10
 
Diversity
8.8 / 10
 
Satisfaction with Work
7.9 / 10
 
Pro Bono
8.3 / 10
 
Trainee Retention
8.0 / 10
 

Pros

  • The firm is very sociable with a relaxed and friendly environment.
  • Trainees get a good amount of responsibility and client interaction from an early stage.
  • The work/life balance of trainees is treated with importance.
  • Very strong mentoring and detailed feedback is given regularly.

Cons

  • There’s relatively low remuneration compared to other firms.
  • Some trainees would like to have more secondment opportunities.
  • While the firm is flexible, some departments can have demanding hours.
  • Retention rates can vary a lot between departments.

What insiders say about...

Interview: Tips & Advice

"Use as many different life experiences to back up what you are saying about yourself,..."
Culture

"There is no real hierarchy; everybody is approachable and engaging. There's a good..."
Formal Training

"You are assigned a supervisor in your department who makes sure you are given a good..."
Informal Training & Mentoring

"Partners are accessible due to the 'open-door' policy."
Offices & Dress

"Dress code is generally smart (although a full suit and tie isn't really the firm's..."
Hours

"Typically I work from 9:00am to 5:30pm, although I can stay later if there is something..."
Salary

"The pay is low in comparison with a lot of trainee solicitor positions."
Perks

"Gift vouchers for your birthday, Easter eggs at Easter and a selection box at Christmas...."
Interview Process

"I attended a vacation scheme at Shoosmiths. At the end of this I gave a marketing..."
Interview Questions

"I was asked a mix of motivational and competency-based questions."
Green Initiatives

"While it can be difficult for a law firm to reduce its impact on the environment,..."
Diversity

"Shoosmiths is a friendly and diverse firm. I have never experienced any difference..."
Career Prospects

""
Satisfaction with Work

"I am currently in real estate and often have contact with clients by email and phone,..."
Pro Bono

"CommuniCare pro bono legal advice clinic. Everyone is encouraged to get involved..."
Pluses

"The firm has top quality clients which are a plus."
Minuses

"Fewer resources and benefits than at a larger firm."
Why your firm?

"I did a vacation scheme at Shoosmiths and really enjoyed it and the location is perfect..."
Trainee Retention

"The retention rates are good but you never know what is going to happen."
Fun Facts

"Our CEO began as a trainee here at the firm."
In a few words

"Client-focused, open, friendly."
Social Mobility

"I am from a less privileged background and I felt comfortable applying to Shoosmiths..."
Level of Stress

"Depends on workloads."
One Small Change

"Start earlier, finish earlier."
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