Yes. But only under certain restrictions.
I’ve been asked to conduct a lot of summer associate training over the years, but only rarely have I done it exclusively for the summer kids. Instead, I typically recommend that firms make sure to (1) invite them to any existing associate training, or (2) schedule some regular associate training during the summer so that they can attend.
Now this might sound a little controversial, but your selected trainer works for the firms, not the summer associates. The firm’s focus for summer associate programs should be not be simply to give them the training that will help them succeed in their professional lives.
Rather, the primary goal of the training should be to help them think so well of the firm that they (1) are more likely to accept your job offer if one is forthcoming, and (2) return to school talking excitedly to everyone about what a great firm you are, you enhance your on-campus reputation. Therefore, the programs should be fun, interesting, exciting, challenging, etc.
I’ve been asked to conduct a lot of summer associate training over the years, but only rarely have I done it exclusively for the summer kids. Instead, I typically recommend that firms make sure to (1) invite them to any existing associate training, or (2) schedule some regular associate training during the summer so that they can attend.
Now this might sound a little controversial, but your selected trainer works for the firms, not the summer associates. The firm’s focus for summer associate programs should be not be simply to give them the training that will help them succeed in their professional lives.
Rather, the primary goal of the training should be to help them think so well of the firm that they (1) are more likely to accept your job offer if one is forthcoming, and (2) return to school talking excitedly to everyone about what a great firm you are, you enhance your on-campus reputation. Therefore, the programs should be fun, interesting, exciting, challenging, etc.
I think of a summer-associate program as akin to fraternity rush. So if you’re interested in having them pledge your house at the end of the season, make sure you’ve positioned them to accept your offer (insert dating/marriage metaphor here…).
The type of marketing training that all associates (summer and regular) can benefit from include topics like networking, working a room techniques, niche marketing, marketing 101, sales skills, listening skills, internal marketing, and client round-tables.
Of course, there are some wonderful topics that would benefit summer associates exclusively, but most are really personal- or professional-development subjects like interviewing skills, dress for success, writing a persuasive resume, etc. — topics that typically relate to getting a good job.
On the other hand, because they already have a job with your firm, you don’t necessarily want to help them get an even “better” one.
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