Steps to Success with a Shoosmiths Training Contract
Shoosmiths is a leading UK law firm known for its friendly culture, strong client relationships, and national reach. With offices across the country and expertise across commercial and private client law, Shoosmiths offers a fantastic opportunity for aspiring solicitors to train in a modern, forward-thinking environment. Securing a training contract at Shoosmiths is highly competitive—but entirely achievable with the right approach. Here’s how to stand out at every stage.
Understand the Shoosmiths Ethos
Shoosmiths is proud of its inclusive and down-to-earth culture. They value authenticity, commercial awareness, and people who can bring their full selves to work. Before applying, take the time to understand the firm’s values, recent news, and the types of clients they work with.
Explore their website, read trainee blogs, and check out their presence on LinkedIn and Instagram. Pay attention to Shoosmiths’ emphasis on client service and innovation—these themes should be reflected in your application.
Tailor Your Application Thoughtfully
Shoosmiths wants to see that you’ve researched them thoroughly and can articulate why you’re a good fit. This means going beyond generic answers and demonstrating genuine motivation.
When writing your application:
- Be specific about what attracts you to Shoosmiths (e.g. their strong national client base, modern training structure, or focus on technology and innovation).
- Use concrete examples to show how your experience aligns with their values.
- Demonstrate an understanding of their key practice areas and recent deals or initiatives.
Avoid clichés and recycled lines—be yourself and show why you’re a great cultural and professional match.
Showcase Commercial Awareness
Like all top firms, Shoosmiths is looking for candidates with strong commercial awareness. You don’t need a business degree to show this—just a willingness to understand how legal services fit into the wider economy.
Stay updated with:
- Recent news in sectors relevant to Shoosmiths (e.g. real estate, retail, tech)
- Major legal developments
- Their own press releases or publications
When writing or interviewing, link your awareness back to client needs. For example, if you’re discussing the rise of AI, explain how it might impact how Shoosmiths delivers legal services.
Prepare for the Online Assessment and Video Interview
Shoosmiths’ recruitment process often includes a combination of online assessments, a video interview, and a virtual or in-person assessment centre.
For the video interview:
- Practice recording yourself to get comfortable speaking clearly and confidently.
- Prepare answers to typical questions such as “Why Shoosmiths?”, “Why law?”, and “Describe a time you worked in a team.”
- Focus on clarity, structure, and authenticity. Use the STAR technique to frame your answers when possible.
Treat the video interview as a real opportunity—not just a screening stage.
Perform Well at the Assessment Centre
If you make it to the assessment centre, you’re close. This day may include group tasks, written exercises, a partner interview, or a case study.
To succeed:
- Be collaborative in group exercises. Shoosmiths values team players, not dominant personalities.
- Stay calm under pressure and show your ability to analyse and communicate clearly.
- In interviews, be prepared to talk about your motivations, work experience, and how you align with the firm’s values.
Always ask thoughtful questions at the end—it shows interest and initiative.
Reflect and Learn
If you’re not successful on the first attempt, don’t give up. Shoosmiths encourages applications from people who have gained more experience or learned from previous rounds.
Use any feedback provided and reflect on what you might improve. Many successful candidates secure training contracts on their second or third application attempts, so resilience matters.
Final Thoughts
Securing a training contract at Shoosmiths is about more than ticking boxes—it’s about showing that you’re curious, motivated, and aligned with the firm’s values. Tailor your application, demonstrate your awareness of the legal and commercial world, and bring your authentic self to every stage of the process.