10 Top Tips for Navigating the NQ Market (East Anglia)

If you’re a trainee solicitor or junior lawyer in East Anglia, we’ve got some insights for you. Here are the top ten things you need to know about the regional NQ market:

1. It’s important to choose a move that aligns with your long-term aspirations. Most lawyers only move 2-4 times in a decade; moving more frequently can be seen as a red flag by some firms.

2. Not all practice areas are equal in terms of market conditions. NQ private client lawyers are currently more placeable than NQ corporate lawyers. Trainees with extended seats in their preferred practice area have an advantage over those with only six-month stints.

3. Choose a preferred practice area and aim to secure a job in that field, since switching practice areas becomes increasingly difficult over time.

4. Your CV can make all the difference in securing an interview, so make sure it’s targeted to specific firms rather than a generic one-size-fits-all approach.

5. Many NQ jobs are created by a law firm receiving a targeted CV (often from an agent) rather than through advertised positions.

6. Some law firms may consider trainee/NQ CVs for junior positions up to 2 years’ PQE, especially if the role has been open for months (and the firm is large enough to have good supervision of NQs in place).

7. NQ salaries are on the rise, with some firms having rates which start with a 5 or 6, though most start with 3 or 4.

8. If you have a strong relationship with a partner at a target firm, it’s worth considering sending your CV in directly. (We can advise if we judge this to be relevant for you.)

9. NQ salary offers are usually non-negotiable, but there can be exceptions which we can advise on.

10. Research potential employers to avoid wasting their time or having multiple firms competing for you.

If you’re considering switching firms or just want some advice on whether your current firm is the right fit for you, get in touch with us.

We specialise in placing lawyers in East Anglia and would love to hear from you.