1. Why did you seek out my services? What was the problem you were experiencing? What were you hoping to improve or resolve?
I was getting no replies to my training contract applications, despite my excellent academic qualifications and unique experience. I thought my CV was impressive, but in fact it was totally inaccessible and inappropriate for a legal audience. I desperately needed advice on how to amend it to best effect.
2. Why did you choose me specifically to provide you with advice?
To be honest, I didn’t know that such a service existed, so when I found your web site by chance I just went for it. At the time, I was feeling extremely dejected about the application process and was ready to try anything. I must admit to being skeptical at first, as the web site could have been a scam. However, I figured if it is a scam then I’ve only lost a few pounds, but if it isn’t, I’ve gained invaluable advice to help me start my legal career. To me, it was a no-brainer.
3. How do you feel as a result of undertaking the coaching programme?
More confident about my training contract applications and more aware of the options available to me, in terms of the type of firm to apply to. I am quite proud of my CV and almost feel like having it framed!
4. What part of the coaching programme did you like the most? Why?
Having worked on a couple of amended versions of my CV, to then go through the CV on the phone point by point. Receiving suggested amendments in red text is extremely helpful, but knowing the reasoning behind such suggestions is absolutely priceless. Being able to discuss it was so useful, and the advice much more relevant than any provided by University careers services, whose staff are, to some extent, out of touch with the real world.
5. How have you benefited from the coaching programme?
My CV is totally unrecognisable from the original, despite there being no new information on it. My unique package of skills has been cleverly emphasised and any less pertinent points removed. This process has allowed me to regain confidence in my abilities and recognise that I have much to offer. I am now applying for training contracts with renewed vigour.
6. Do you feel you have received value for money? Would you have paid more for this service? If so, how much do you think my service is worth?
Absolutely, no question. This advice will help to get my foot into a legal career, which I have already invested so much time, effort and money in achieving. I roughly equated the fee to the hourly cost of a solicitor’s time, which I guessed to be around £200. On that basis you could charge double that at least.
7. What would you say to someone who might be considering taking my advice about their training contract applications?
Don’t hesitate. It’s well worth the money and could be the best thing you do for your legal career. We all know that competition for training contracts is fierce, and studying law costs a lot in terms of money, time and effort. However, it doesn’t matter how good your academic qualifications are if your CV doesn’t stand out from the crowd. With so many applications being received for each post, it should tell the firm what they need to know about you in a quick scan of the eyes across the page. Matt’s advice could ensure that your CV lands on the ‘interview’ pile instead of the ‘no’ pile. So can you afford not to? Your optimised CV and covering letter will undoubtedly give you an edge over the competition. I would consider this service to be part of the cost of my legal education, rather than an additional outlay.
8. Is there anything I can do to improve my service in the future?
Can’t think of anything!
