Sophie Reid

Put in the hours: Maybe one of the most obvious ones but the more hours you put in, the more you’ll get out. With every hour you put in, the more experience and understanding you gain.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions: You’re in a new environment learning new things, you’re bound to have questions, whether it’s a practical or legal question. Everyone is there to help you learn and develop, and the time will soon come when you’re the one getting asked!

Form strong relationships with everyone, where you can: It improves the quality of your days and makes them go by quicker. Plus, you never know when you’ll need to ask for a favour, or you need someone to talk to.

Go to as many events as you can: Whether it’s internal or external events, attend as many as you can. You’ll be able to grow your professional, and social, network. The confidence you will gain is invaluable too.

Keep a note of your how tos: At the beginning of your traineeship, there is likely to be information overload so keep a record of things you think are important to remember and how you did them. There is no such thing as a silly question but there is if you ask it over and over and over again.

Record your triumphs.

Pick yourself up when things don’t go to plan.

Observe as much as you can: You’ll learn different techniques from different solicitors, and you’ll learn how to manage (especially tricky) situations. Whether it’s asking to sit in on a court hearing, or listening to client calls, absorb it as best you can and take mental notes.

Sophie Reid is a trainee at Aberdein Considine