2025
Work experience section: Tell us about any paid employment, position of responsibility or volunteer work you think is relevant to your application (up to three separate roles). We want to understand your role, what you learnt and why the position was of interest to you. Please include dates for the role. (300 words)
Student Ambassador, [University] [dates redacted]
In my part-time job as a Student Ambassador, I lead town and student accommodation tours during visiting days and official admissions tours every fortnight. Following excellent reviews, I received two promotions to [reacted] within my first five months in the scheme. In this role, I am entrusted with additional responsibilities, such as shadowing more junior ambassadors on their town tours and assisting with ambassador training. I was also selected to join a specialised 12-person team that provides private tours to non-prospective students and VIP guests.
Summer Intern, [U.S. law firm] [dates redacted]
I completed a four-week internship with [U.S. law firm] investment funds team. I assisted with preparing master side letters, special limited partner and sponsor partner subscription agreements for multi-jurisdictional funds with 80+ investors. I compiled business profiles on prospective clients that provided valuable insights to partners and associates on their businesses and strategies. Additionally, I helped create visual aids explaining investment funds and private credit laws across various Southeast Asian jurisdictions. These are utilised by partners and associates to simplify complex legal concepts for prospective and current clients.
Summer Intern, [high street family law firm] [dates redacted]
In this five-week internship, I closely worked with [redacted] (the firm’s managing partner) to research and draft a submission for the Family Division of the [redacted] High Court, where I discovered case law critical to winning our case. I also conducted case law research on personal injury, Muslim inheritance law and family law cases. Additionally, I drafted and proofread legal documents for divorce and contentious probate matters prior to e-submission. I was later invited to attend [law conference] as [managing partner’s] personal assistant, where I networked with lawyers from 4+ continents.
What are two things you have personally found interesting about Forsters through your research? Please explain why these are interesting or matter to you. (250 words)
One aspect that stands out about Forsters is its unique six-seat training contract. While Forsters is renowned for its excellence in private client and real estate, it also has strong dispute resolution and corporate and commercial practices. The structure of the six-seat programme, with guaranteed seats in commercial real estate and tax, trusts and estates provide breadth that Forsters’s competitors do not offer. Taking modules in [subject A], [subject B], [subject C] and [subject D] taught me to value multidisciplinary thinking, while internships in family law, commercial litigation and investment funds reinforced my enjoyment of both contentious and transactional work. A broad training contract at Forsters will allow me to explore various practice areas, develop a well-rounded legal foundation and ensure that I make an informed decision about qualification.
Forsters’s commitment to giving back through responsible business initiatives deeply resonates with me. At the Legal Cheek Virtual Fair, I learned about Forsters’s firm-organised volunteering day, where 141 employees volunteered during work hours. Additionally, Forsters’s work with the Thursday Lunch Club and the South Westminster Legal Advice Centre reflects its long-standing commitment to supporting local communities. This level of engagement goes beyond standard responsible business initiatives. As someone who has volunteered extensively at university, I am keen to work at a firm that genuinely prioritises giving back. Forsters’s efforts resonate with my values, and I look forward to continuing meaningful community involvement alongside my legal career.
Tell us about one goal you have set for yourself recently and describe the steps you are taking and skills you are developing in order to achieve it. (250 words)
One recent goal I have set for myself is to establish long-term representation and support mechanisms for international students at [university]. When I was elected as International Students’ Officer, I identified two key issues: limited official university support for international students and a lack of cross-cultural connection among international students.
To combat these issues, I founded the inaugural International Students’ Committee, the first official body dedicated to representing, supporting and advocating for international students at [university]. I designed the committee’s structure, role descriptions and application process while balancing coursework deadlines and a part-time job. To ensure broad engagement and inclusivity, I publicised the initiative through university channels, student representatives and social media. I received over 25 applications for nine roles and strong interest from underrepresented groups such as postgraduates, South American and African students.
This experience developed my leadership and project management skills, as I motivated members to work towards shared goals. For instance, I delegated roles based on individual strengths and provided clear guidance to ensure efficient and consistent progress. I also strengthened my strategic thinking and problem-solving skills by planning and launching initiatives such as an Instagram page for engagement, an international students’ guide and cross-cultural mixers. Additionally, I honed my communication skills through effectively publicising applications and establishing clear and regular committee communication channels. These experiences have helped me to achieve my initial goal and equipped me with transferrable skills, which I continue to apply as I lead the committee and address new challenges.
2024
What interests you in a career as a solicitor, and why do you think you are well suited to the role? (500 words)
Whilst I initially pursued a law degree intending to become a criminal barrister, my motivations changed after I undertook some work experience with the in-house legal team of [redacted]. Even in this small team, I experienced the collaborative nature of a solicitor's practice, working closely with the legal team and other departments within the business. I thrive when working with others, and my inherently personable nature attracts me to the many interactions that a career as a solicitor offers.
My interest in commercial law developed at university through participating in a negotiation competition. This experience heightened my appreciation for the role of commercial solicitors in understanding their client’s needs and the broader commercial landscape. I have since acquired valuable insights into private practice at City law firms by attending open days and participating in various virtual internships. The hugely varied nature of a lawyer’s work aligns with my enthusiasm for a dynamic and multifaceted career.
Effective teamwork is essential to delivering seamless legal services for clients. My experience in various roles within the hospitality industry has made me a confident team player, adept at collaborating in high-pressure environments with people of diverse strengths, backgrounds and working styles. Through delivering attentive service, and anticipating and fulfilling customer needs, my waitressing experience has instilled in me a client-focused mindset. This aligns with Forsters’ core value of collaboration for excellence, where lawyers pull together in small, partner-led teams to deliver quality, client-oriented solutions.
I can communicate clearly and persuasively with others. Competing as House Captain of Senior Debating at school sharpened my ability to tailor my arguments and communication style to target my opposition. I further developed this proficiency in the first-year negotiation competition, which required me to articulate my thoughts with precision and influence. Lawyers at Forsters work with clients from across the globe, each of whom will require a different style of communication to build strong relationships and engender confidence.
I excel in handling substantial responsibility. In my second year at university, I was an active member of both the [redacted] Art Society and Tennis Club. Balancing society commitments with my academic workload demanded strong organisational and time management skills to ensure deadlines were met. My ability to maintain a high quality of academic work alongside my extracurricular pursuits was formally recognised when I achieved a Commendation for outstanding results in my second-year exams.
What are the 2 most interesting things you have found out about Forsters through your research? (500 words)
Firstly, Forsters stands out due to its deliberate and focused strategy. Rather than attempting to offer clients everything, Forsters strategically focuses on its strengths in real estate and private wealth. This targeted approach has earned Forsters a leading reputation in its chosen markets, allowing it to secure top mandates for high-profile and complex work. Moreover, Forsters strategically established itself exclusively in Mayfair, the epicentre of private wealth and real estate sectors, demonstrating an astute awareness of its client base. The firm's significant growth in both lawyers and revenue within just 25 years further underscores Forsters' adept execution of its unique strategy.
Consequently, as a trainee at Forsters, I could expect unparalleled exposure to high-calibre work and top-of-the-market projects, ensuring a fulfilling and exciting training contract. I am particularly enthusiastic about gaining experience in Forsters' market-leading real estate practice. With a Band 1 ranked team of over 120 property lawyers, Forsters possesses an impressive depth of expertise, allowing it to cater to a diverse client base – from institutional investors to high-net-worth landowners - across all major asset classes. Moreover, Forsters has rightfully earned its reputation as a firm that "punches above its weight, successfully representing clients in some of the market's most prominent cases, including Fearn v Tate. Ranked as the number one property law case of 2023 by EG, this case represents a pivotal moment in extending the law of nuisance to protect against visual intrusion and serves as a testament to Forsters' exceptional real estate capabilities. As a potential future trainee at Forsters, I will thus be able to learn from the very best in their field.
Secondly, Forsters' commitment to prioritising happiness as a core value is unique. Beyond offering high-calibre work, the firm actively promotes a healthy work-life balance within its culture - a unique approach in the legal industry. During conversations with Forsters trainees at a Legal Cheek event in November, I sensed a genuine enthusiasm and excitement for both the firm and their work, of a kind I had not seen elsewhere. Trainees highlighted the substantial support provided by senior lawyers, the flat hierarchy, and the sense of camaraderie fostered by all Forsters' lawyers collaborating under one roof. Recognised as a Future Lawyers Winner for social life, hybrid working, and supervisor approachability, Forsters nurtures a collegial, respectful and flexible working environment, translating into outstanding lawyer performance. Moreover, Forsters' consistently high retention rates serve as a further testament to its uniquely positive culture. This resonates with my desire to work at a firm where I can build strong working relationships with like-minded people and be valued as an individual with interests outside of work.
Tell us about something you have read in the news recently and explain why it interests you in relation to your studies, personal interests or career aspirations. (500 words)
Last week, it was revealed that Chancellor Jeremy Hunt will deliver the next UK Budget to the House of Commons on 6th March 2024. This pivotal annual event will set out the government's financial plans for the upcoming year and address various topics, including government expenditures, tax policies, and initiatives related to public services and infrastructure. My interest in this story is twofold. Firstly, I am about to commence my first full-time job post-graduation. The potential impact on income tax rates and thresholds directly influences my take-home pay, a critical consideration as a young professional mindful of the cost of living and inflation. Furthermore, as an aspiring solicitor, the Budget is of interest since it presents a nexus of implications for law firms and their clients.
Speculation surrounding the Spring Budget suggests the possibility of significant tax cuts, including the abolition of inheritance tax or a reduction in income tax. Housing policies, including extended fixed-term mortgages and a potential revival of the Help-to-Buy scheme, are also expected to be considered. Stamp duty reform, omitted from the Autumn Statement last year due to inflation concerns, could be back on the table for March, with rates expected to decrease over the next few months.
The potential ramifications of these fiscal policies extend across the entire economy, impacting individuals and businesses of all sizes. For Forsters, with core strengths in Real Estate, Tax, Trust, and Corporate matters, the firm is well-equipped to offer comprehensive, integrated advice to address issues resulting from the forthcoming Budget. The possible abolition of inheritance tax might drive demand for the firm's estate planning and wealth management services, whilst a decline in demand for private client services related to tax mitigation might ensue. A reduction in income tax could prompt clients to seek advice on restructuring their financial affairs to optimise tax efficiency. For instance, clients might show more interest in wealth preservation and long-term financial planning. Moreover, within family law, potential changes in tax treatments will inevitably influence financial settlements.
Housing policy shifts could reshape the demand for services in real estate law. Streamlining access for first-time buyers could stimulate residential property transactions, benefitting firms with strong real estate practices. Lower stamp duty rates could attract overseas buyers and investors to the high-end property market, creating opportunities for legal services related to luxury property transactions, asset protection, and international real estate. Moreover, an upswing in real estate activity could generate more work for related legal services, such as property disputes or landlord-tenant matters. On the corporate front, changes to corporate tax policies may lead to an uptake in clients seeking advice for managing tax implications and other critical business decisions. Additionally, M&A activity might be affected as any significant changes in tax regulations will likely impact business sale decisions.
Law firms must understand the Budget’s impact on their client's financial position and educate clients accordingly. Transparent communication about potential benefits and risks associated with the new tax landscape will be essential for maintaining client trust and satisfaction.
2024
Work experience: Tell us about any paid employment, position of responsibility or volunteer work you think is relevant to your application (up to three separate roles). We want to understand your role, what you learnt and why the position was of interest to you. Please include dates for the role.
Note: applications are marked blind to support our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion commitments, therefore please avoid naming schools or universities you attended. (750 words)
Numerous experiences uniquely equip me for success as a solicitor at Forsters, with three pivotal roles standing out.
I have worked in retail since 2018 and presently work as a team member at Oliver Bonas. This has provided direct client facing experience that fosters my communication, interpersonal and client-centric service skills invaluable to a career as a solicitor. I can use this experience to efficiently engage with clients, offering friendly and supportive service to uphold Forsters’ reputation as approachable and engaged. I had to keep up with product knowledge and be able to communicate information clearly to a customer. As a solicitor, I can draw on this when explaining legal concepts clearly to a client. I have also had to navigate awkward situations when dealing with unsatisfied or difficult customers. Typically, those seeking legal assistance are often in stressful or desperate situations. Since Forsters commonly deals with private wealth and high profile companies, there can often be high stakes and strict deadlines resulting in stressed clients. I know how to professionally respond to such situations and the importance of clarity, empathy and efficiency. This role has developed professional etiquette and team working ability, and I feel confident on how to approach seniority on matters outside of my experience. This makes me a reliable and driven employee.
I’ve acquired commercial understanding by attending meetings on sale strategies and competitor behaviour. My work in Boots provided experience in cross-referencing customers, for example suggesting customers in the beauty department use our pharmacy for health queries. I felt professional satisfaction contributing to the company’s profit in this way and enjoyed collaborating with my colleagues to reach the customer’s goal. I can apply this experience as a forward looking solicitor to secure long lasting client relationships through strategic advice. It makes me excited about the collaboration across teams at Forsters and well equipped to contribute.
I was Head Girl 2018-2019. This was a competitive position of immense responsibility. My duties included drafting, writing and delivering speeches to prospective parents and students. This developed public speaking ability and gave me experience of upholding the reputation of an establishment through my own performance. I understand the importance of integrity. I honed my leadership skills by overseeing student council meetings and managing various projects such as charity events and open evenings. Coordinating meetings allowed me to enhance my organisational abilities, ensuring effective communication and smooth execution of tasks. Additionally, the responsibility of being a representative voice for the student body developed advocacy skills as I would voice concerns to members of the senior leadership team. I arranged a charity sleep-out to raise money for our local homeless shelter, in which sixth form students and staff were sponsored to sleep overnight in the school playground. After approaching local cafes, a few agreed to get involved and donate to the charity and provide hot drinks for us. This involved negotiation and delegation skills, as I assigned the student leadership team roles to ensure this happened smoothly. My engagement with charity projects (coupled with other volunteering experiences) make me eager to get involved in pro bono opportunities provided at Forsters. Serving as Head Girl not only instilled in me a strong sense of accountability but also deepened my understanding of the importance of diplomacy and tact in navigating complex situations.
I loved this position and considered it an honour to represent my school. I was very proud that students were comfortable turning to me for advocacy. On numerous occasions younger students approached me with concerns they did not want to directly talk to teachers about. I voiced these in my bi-monthly meetings with the Head Teacher and we planned proactive methods accordingly.
From 2015-2018 I volunteered as an assistant ballet teacher. This was every Saturday 8am-12pm, teaching classes from baby ballet (age 3+) to primary level (age 6). I developed creative teaching methods that could be modified between ages and had to communicate effectively with parents. I had to manage costume administration, calculate the quantity of sizes needed, create a spreadsheet accordingly and effectively explain instructions to parents. Being a school student meant that it required commitment and discipline to work this role, but it was rewarding watching students progress over the years I was there. I used patience whilst working with such young students, often having to explain things repeatedly in very simple terms. I applied this experience as captain and choreographer of my university’s competitive ballet team, adapting teaching techniques to this older age group.
What are the 2 most interesting things you have found out about Forsters through your research? (500 words)
It is difficult to distinguish just two elements, particularly given Forsters’ tier 1 rankings in numerous sectors. My focus narrows to: 1) the benefits of a unique approach to training and 2) the type of clients attracted.
Forsters offers a unique training contract structure suited to my learning style. The six seat system provides a breadth of exposure, which would broaden my knowledge whilst helping me make an informed decision about qualification. The four month seat rotation is unique and valuable, this would push me and develop me into a highly competent solicitor with strong adaptability and agile thinking.
At the open day I spoke with trainee (NAME). I was intrigued by his account of being given a good deal of responsibility and the type of work that entailed. My enjoyment of a multidisciplinary degree highlights how I would enjoy capitalising on this breadth of exposure. Also a non-law graduate, I was pleased to hear how his transferable skills acquired at university were invaluable to this style of training and reassured me that Forsters is the right firm to pursue. My conversation with (NAME) at the Legal Cheek Virtual Law Fair highlighted the firm's commitment to support and how the training contract pushes you to your professional best alongside fostering personal development.
An avid listener of your More Than Law podcast, it is evident that though everyone works as a team in an atmosphere of mutual support, the firm avoids a homogeneous approach to trainees. The values and culture within the trainees and the firm’s approach to training is unrivalled. Individualism is president; there is an understanding that each person brings a unique quality. The firm avoids the sense of anonymity often found at bigger city firms yet supplies trainees with just as exciting and varied work.
Secondly, the high profile clients and cases are particularly interesting. This is something I have learnt about from my research on the Legal500 and the Forsters open day. Having both domestic and international clients means that the work is varied and connected to the wider world. I was particularly engaged with private client partner’s recount of working on a succession of assets for a deceased Gambian man with global assets and a large family across the world. I considered, though complicated, how interesting it would be and how I could use my skills of collaboration, advocacy and adaptability. I am impressed by the firm’s enviable reputation in global wealth centres such as the US and Asia. My internship with the UN involved working with interns from all over the globe, and I really enjoyed building an international mindset.
Domestically, too, Forsters attracts high profile and exciting clients. A particularly interesting find was when Forsters acted for the Ministry of Defence in a statutory enfranchisement rights case concerning the Married Quarters Estate used to house service personnel and their families. I would find the necessary multidisciplinary approach intellectually stimulating and the government and public interest both compelling and rewarding.
3. What interests you in a career as a solicitor and why do you think you are well suited to the role? (500 words)
My studies of social sciences fostered an ability to think critically about human nature and factors influencing a more equitable society. I enjoyed my legal based modules exploring how the law impacts women and I felt drawn to learning more about the legal system itself. Law is fundamentally a people business, in which the complexity of human relationships are epitomised. As a solicitor I would have a crucial and versatile role within them, which is greatly appealing. This understanding enables me to establish considerate relationships with colleagues but also deliver empathetic, client-centric service. I have a particular interest in private client, as I’m attracted to the idea of having personal impact and becoming a trusted, long-term advisor. I remain open minded, however, as various legal experiences such as the Forage Business and Human Rights internship sparked an interest in the corporate realm I am keen to explore further in my training. I enjoyed giving commercially-led advice and understood the importance of considering how world affairs affect the ever evolving law.
A career as a solicitor also provides academic rigour, through tasks such as drafting documentation and consistent problem-solving. During my work experience at TWM Solicitors, I was given tasks to do for ongoing cases such as contract searching, title investigations and drafting. I found these intellectually stimulating and interesting, and I could apply skills I already possessed. It was here I established an interest in family law, as I excelled in balancing empathy with ration, having a helpful involvement in relationships whilst remaining professional. In essence, balancing IQ with EQ.
The career also offers ample career growth opportunities, I can accumulate experience to progress into more senior positions and ultimately a partner.
My degree has honed my analytical skills, attention to detail and an innovative mindset. This is proven through my consistent high standard of work. Studying a joint honours degree has developed my time management skills and adaptability as the departments had clashing deadlines and different objectives and referencing styles. This adaptability will allow me to respond to unique needs of clients and offer a personalised service.
Throughout my education, I have always striven for personal excellence but have also been motivated by working collaboratively to meet targets. I enjoyed group projects and team-orientated extracurricular activities, and this will be invaluable as a solicitor when working across teams and with clients to find pragmatic solutions. It is this team work element of law that is another point of attraction.
Various firm open days and Legal Cheek events have built my networking skills and sense of professional etiquette. I feel I have been given apt insight into the typical tasks faced by a solicitor and feel confident I have the interests and skills to flourish. Specifically, I feel I would excel at Forsters, where the open day assured me I would thrive in the collaborative culture but also maintain the high standard of competence needed for the tasks that were presented to us.
Tell us about something you have read in the news recently and explain why it interests you in relation to your studies, personal interests or career aspirations. (500 words)
There are numerous news events that relate to various interests. Linking to both my legal interests and previous studies, a particular example is Sir Keir Starmer, leader of the opposition, calling for the legalisation of assisted dying. Also known as legalised euthanasia, the concept, meaning to voluntary end one’s life with medical assistance in instances of terminal illness or incurable disease, is currently illegal in England and Wales under the Suicide Act (1961). The support in parliament for this possibility has ranged drastically and manifested a strong divide between those in favour and those adamantly against it. I’m intrigued by the social and legal implications this may have and the complications that arise when considering religious and ethical concerns held by the public.
It has led me to reflect on my studies in sociology of family dynamics and the role of the state within them. Continuing to legally ban the act perhaps perpetuates the argument that the state should have a say in personal decisions and involvement in family life. Should this be the case? Whether or not one agrees, it is undeniable that the legalisation of assisted suicide would have immense fallout in the law.
I understand the argument that freedom to choose assisted suicide can provide dignity, honour personal agency and perhaps be the kinder, more freeing option. In cases where a patient no longer has agency, or the ability to communicate, how could the power of attorney or any other family member prove this is a) a true, informed and certain decision by the patient and/or b) genuinely in their best interest? It is a deeply delicate subject, a family solicitor would have to demonstrate empathy and the appropriate communication skills whilst acting constructively. On a more personal level, perhaps solicitors may struggle to separate their own beliefs on the matter or specific contexts.
This is particularly relevant in high-net-worth families, where inheritance and personal interests may add another layer of complexity. I recently read the book Is Eating People Wrong? Great Legal Cases that Shaped the World and was fascinated by the ethical complexities of law and how multifaceted cases can be, this topic seems to epitomise that. I wonder if, instead, equity could be applied to cases where substantial evidence proves that assisted dying is a fairer and necessary outcome. I look forward to considering this further as I commence my studies and acquire further legal understanding.
Further, how would lawyers be expected to adapt to the complications this would bring to insurance law? If a person is choosing to die, an insurance company would likely be reluctant to pay their spouse the full life insurance. This may be taken to court and cause a complicated dispute, meaning insurance law would also have to be reconsidered and indicates how multidisciplinary these cases would be.
This topic intersects the personal with the political and sparked professional interest due to its relevance to private client and family law. I remain intrigued by its development.
2022
Why have you decided to pursue a career in law?
From an early age I have been fascinated by the Law. I understand the importance of reasoned argument to overcome challenges and achieve solutions. Studying a foreign language, I recognise the value of different perspectives and their significance when investing into relationships. My ambition is to have a successful career in Law, where I can utilise my communication skills to secure and build strong client relationships and provide client-focused solutions.
A career with active involvement in the market, when offering business and legal solutions to clients interests me. Working at a wealth management firm, I know the importance of understanding a client’s competitors, accumulation strategy and core values before offering advice. As a lawyer, I look forward to learning about the individual and commercial needs of my clients when considering bespoke legal and business solutions within the wider commercial environment. Placing distinct focus on providing a personalised client service, I strongly believe that Forsters is the firm which will best facilitate a client-orientated career.
The continuous drive to remain competitive within the market is accompanied by a high-stake and intellectually stimulating environment. I enjoyed the fast-paced nature of the hospitality industry, but it lacked the intellectually stimulating aspect which I have thrived on during my commercial internships. These positions were most engaging when analysing complex documents and providing novel solutions to clients' business and wider personal objectives. Thus, with a ‘hands on’ trainee experience at Forsters, I can be involved in challenging client work from the outset of my career.
Why do you want to train at Forsters?
Ranked Band 1 Chambers with a stellar reputation, Forsters’ Private Client practice is unrivalled in providing exceptional legal advice. After gaining insight into the commercial and everyday realities of estate life at [Landed Estate], [Landed Estate] and [Landed Estate], I am inspired by the transformation of historic rural properties amidst developing sustainability requirements. Forsters Landed Estate Practice is proven to engender innovative solutions for rural landowners operating in the ever-evolving commercial landscape. Thus, as a Forsters trainee I look forward to supporting landowners in navigating future possibilities as a trusted advisor.
With the recent sale of Cult Beauty, a leading UK sustainable beauty retailer to The Hut Group, Forsters’ high profile corporate work rivals that of larger law firms. The impressive breadth of corporate opportunities at Forsters includes Corporate Real Estate transactions. That which is highly engaging for me, having enjoyed my introduction to Real Estate Law in Munich. Therefore, offering six four-month seats, a Training Contract at Forsters will provide me with greater exposure to Forsters’ specialisms across the legal industry.
At Forsters the smaller trainee teams will enable me to take ownership of my work from the outset of my career. With greater responsibility trusted in me, I am guaranteed to accelerate my own training, such as developing client relationships early in my career. Additionally, investing in individual development with both the mentor and buddy schemes means that, as I am ambitious in my training, I will thrive in the supportive culture at the firm.
What qualities do you have that would make you a good trainee at Forsters? What makes you stand out from other applicants?
I am a determined individual who is dedicated to achieving excellence. During my internship in Germany, I was driven to ensure the integrity of my work for English speaking clients. Therefore, I thoroughly researched German Real Estate Law before submitting to the client. This experience demonstrates my ability to take responsibility and succeed; I can be relied upon to produce exceptional work for both the client and my colleagues at Forsters.
Within the German workplace I encountered clear cultural differences. Due to my respectful nature, I was able to display appropriate work conduct in Germany. This quality has also enabled me to thrive in collaborative working environments. Operating in a close-knit team at [Wealth Management Firm], I was able to produce more creative solutions when valuing the contributions of all colleagues. As a respectful individual, I will foster genuine client relationships and will work seamlessly alongside colleagues to provide future-orientated client solutions.
Focusing on security studies at university, I will stand out as a trainee at Forsters. Throughout my degree, I have regularly formulated arguments on developments in the commercial sector and analysed their potential effect on Government policies, debating positions on the repercussions of such developments in Domestic and International environments. As understanding the dynamic nature of the international environment is central to anticipating potential challenges and opportunities for clients, I will be able to offer a fresh and innovative perspective for client solutions at Forsters and, therefore, increase my value to the firm.
Forsters’ values are:
Please pick one of our values and tell us which you align with most and why?
The value ‘collaborate for excellence’ holds weight with me personally. Having studied Feminism as part of my degree and taking part in a year abroad, I have gained a deeper understanding into the value of collaboration. Within seminars, an open dialogue was encouraged, with a strong emphasis on tackling bias and challenging our own views. This transparent environment was instrumental to the success of our class because it widened our understanding about each topic. ‘The wisdom of the crowds’ demonstrates this; highlighting that the accuracy of a group is far greater than the individual. By encouraging collaboration at Forsters, the firm benefits from the different ways in which each employee analyses a particular situation, with every person contributing valuable understanding to finding an exceptional outcome.
Personally, having experienced a collaborative and diverse environment at university, I felt valued and respected in my contributions. I could, therefore, be authentic in seminars and reach my potential because my views were celebrated. With freedom of individuality, Forsters creates a more open and supportive culture which enables every employee to succeed for the firm. Furthermore, when offering advice within the commercial environment, it is important that the diverse nature of society is reflected within the firm, allowing for excellent solutions to a variety of future market possibilities. Thus, with the launch of Forsters’ Equality, Diversity and Inclusion strategy, Forsters demonstrates its dedication to breaking down barriers within the workplace and fostering a more inclusive community. That which will ensure continued excellence at the firm.
If you could change any law, which law would you change and why?
In the United Kingdom, current inheritance tax (IHT) law states that inheritance over £325,000 (for spouse, partners, charities, communities) and £500,000 (for children or grandchildren) with exceptions of couples, is taxed by 40%. Studying politics and working for a private wealth management firm, I maintain that this law is ineffective in achieving its aim and requires reformation.
In a capitalist society, there is a focus on maximising personal wealth. When working at [Wealth Management Firm], it was clear that the impact of this self-maximising system led to individuals placing greater importance on philanthropy later in life. However, many client portfolios demonstrated that current IHT forced individuals to prioritise guarding familial wealth in later years over funding philanthropic goals. Thus, I maintain that the existing IHT law encourages action to minimize overall personal losses rather than promoting and achieving corporate social responsibility, either individually or through taxes. This was shown to be possible through for example gifting.
Gifting seven years before death has 0% IHT, with a gradual increase to 40% when less than three years. Therefore, with funds being directed earlier to future generations, the social benefits that would have been derived from philanthropic endeavours are not gained. Furthermore, by using strategies which avoid/minimise inheritance tax, there is less capital for taxes themselves. Therefore, it is evident that IHT needs immediate reformation. This is an increasingly prevalent conversation at Forsters, as stated by Alfred Liu (Senior Associate), who maintained that the pandemic may be the catalyst which leads to dramatic IHT reform
Please give an example of a situation where you have worked as part of a team to achieve a specific objective. Consider your contribution, problems encountered, solutions given, outcomes and learning points.
A group of friends and I had decided to hike 80km across the Brecon Beacons and after several hours of walking we had taken the wrong path down a beacon. The navigators were convinced that the route was correct even though it seemed too dangerous. Trusting my instinct, I suggested taking a water break to discuss the route.
As it transpired the navigators had understandably thought it was correct to climb down the beacon at this point, because it was the highlighted route on the map. However, they had not noticed that we were thirty kilometres away from that map position. When I brought this to everyone’s attention, I was told that I was wrong. Therefore, I thought it would be helpful if everyone could distinguish something from our surroundings and identify it on the map.
My teammates struggled to place obvious things around us onto the map. Consequently, I calmly showed the group where I thought we were, pointing to a lake in the distance and placing it on the map. Everyone agreed that we must have, in fact, taken the wrong route and were a long way from the campsite. Whilst this was disheartening news, we made it back to the campsite safely as a team and had avoided getting lost. This experience proves my ability to respond calmly, think logically, listen to others, be open to all contributions and voice my opinions respectfully; crucial values and traits for a team member at Forsters.