Newly Qualified Guide: Securing Your Next Role
The end of your training contract should be the start of a confident career move—not a period of uncertainty. But for many NQs, this time brings difficult questions: What if you’re not retained? What if the firm or practice area isn’t the right fit? What comes next?
At Briefed, we’ve worked with thousands of lawyers at every stage of their careers. We know what law firms are looking for in Newly Qualified solicitors—and what makes standout candidates succeed.
That’s why we’ve created The NQ Guide—a free training guide. Developed by legal recruitment specialists and informed by insights from hiring partners, this training will give you practical tools to stand out in a competitive market to help you secure your next role with confidence.
Write a high-impact CV that demonstrates legal experience, personal strengths, and readiness for NQ roles.
Prepare for legal interviews using a structured four-tiered approach.
Build productive relationships with recruiters, avoiding common pitfalls and maintaining control over your job search.
Apply advice from senior legal professionals to guide mindset, behaviours, and habits during your first year.
Understand high-demand practice areas and how market conditions influence NQ hiring.
Differentiate between types of City firms, from Magic Circle and US firms to boutiques and barristers’ chambers—ensuring the right fit for your ambitions.
Reflect on career values and direction, using practical frameworks to support long-term success in the legal profession.
Learn how to approach your NQ role with clarity, confidence, and long-term focus.