Deciding Boult was for me
“At the very start of any journey into the patent profession, there are two big decisions to make: deciding where to apply; and deciding which job offer to ultimately accept.

For me, the most important factor in making those decisions was the workplace culture and environment. I wanted to join a firm where I would feel valued, respected, and supported to progress. I also wanted to join a firm whose staff were happy, fulfilled, enthusiastic, inclusive, and motivated. These more subjective aspects of a workplace culture and environment are so important but can be difficult to glean from websites or a job spec.

Personally, I found the best way to get a real ‘feel’ for the firms I was considering, was to meet and speak to existing trainees and other qualified members of staff. I did this by attending several open days, but an alternative option would be to attend a vacation scheme, or just to arrange a more informal chat – you’ll find most are happy to talk about their jobs, as it’s widely known in the profession that many people have not even heard of the job, much less understand what it entails.

However, I made my ultimate decision to join Boult on the basis of my interview experience. I interviewed with the partners I still work with, and I instantly knew it would be a good ‘fit’. The interview was relaxed but challenging, and the partners showed a real interest in me as a person. I left feeling really positive, and I still feel the same way 3 years later!”