There is a week of training sessions at the beginning of each team rotation. this is new and is still being developed. some of the sessions are helpful, some of them are too 'big picture' and not practically relevant to graduates. the graduate induction training is not practically helpful. we had multiple sessions regarding the economics and big picture financials of the firm but did not receive formal training on topics that we were expected to know about by our teams (e.g. the firm's document management system, time recording program, how to use various apps (such as the specific compare tool used by the firm or the electronic signature apps)). when you are a grad, you get given a buddy, a mid-level supervisor and and supervising partner. this system is poorly executed and provides almost no coaching/mentoring. i have never spoken with my supervising partner one-on-one (not for lack of trying). i meet with my supervisor from time to time, and they facilitate the feedback process for the mid-point and end of your rotation. feedback is collected from people that you nominate because you have worked with them. i do not work with my supervisor, and do not regularly see them, so there is only so much they can do in the ways of mentoring. i have met with my buddy once and otherwise do not regularly see them. overall, it is clear that the firm does not invest in training and mentoring (probably due to that fact that all non-billable time is not recognised towards your utilisation). the result of this is that most of the high-performing associates are lateral hires, who have completed their initial training and development elsewhere.
Training we have with our teams in person is great but training with the apac offices is a lot less relevant and engaging. the graduate bootcamps however are very practical and useful.
There are always online academy training available for areas of interests or to expand on necessary skillsets. clifford chance offers 'bootcamp' trainings at the beginning of every rotation, hosted in the sydney offices. partners, seniors and junior lawyers all take time to run sessions over 3 days that address crucial skills/capabilities required to succeed in the relevant practice area. its also a great chance to get to know the sydney colleagues and put faces to names!
