Moving to a new city to start a career in law

Rosannah is a trainee in the Nottingham office at Shoosmiths, who started her training contract in September 2023. Here she shares her top tips for moving to a new city to start your career.

Moving away to start a new career can be a daunting process but is a path followed by many on their early careers journey. While some may commute to their nearest town, others choose to move to a large city for access to work. This may be familiar to those who have moved further afield for university already. For those with families or dependants, this can understandably be an even more complex process.

Do what is right for you

Shoosmiths has 13 offices across the UK and therefore has a presence in most major cities and economic centres. When applying to firms, I had the choice of looking for a training contract in a local market or taking the plunge and seeking a training contract in a major city, with the caveat that I would have to relocate. I chose to do the latter as this felt right for me, and sought a training contract at Shoosmiths’ Nottingham office. Whilst a variety of factors contributed to this decision, I progressed through the application process and secured a training contract – memorably being informed whilst on a train at Darlington station! At this stage, moving to a new city felt like a big change, but it also felt very far away in the future, as I still had to complete both my GDL and my LPC. Fast forward to the summer of 2023, and I was searching for a place to live in Nottingham.

Start looking for accommodation earlier than you think

Moving house has its challenges, and the markets move at a rapid pace, which can make finding accommodation difficult. Work out what is best for you, whether that is renting or buying, a house or flat, with others or alone. Work out what your budget allows, what is non-negotiable and where you can afford to compromise, and your accommodation search will be informed and easier to navigate. Draw on any friends or family you may have that know the local area you are looking to move to and do your research thoroughly. Google searches and joining local social media groups can tell you a lot about an area before you have even arrived! Get to know local estate agents and how they operate, and your chances will improve immeasurably.

Immerse yourself in activities both in and out of work

When both your office and surrounding environment are new and unfamiliar, it can feel somewhat daunting. Although no two people are the same, my best advice would be to get to know your new colleagues by having conversations at the coffee machine, or involving yourself in office socials, whether that be by organising or attending such events. This has helped me be more involved in office life, but also in social events associated with a career in law. Since September, I have attended business development and networking events and I am now part of the committee for the Nottinghamshire Junior Lawyers Division.

Build a support system

Building a network of professional contacts is important, but so is forming friendships and relationships outside of work. Joining local sports teams, choirs or craft groups can be a good way to find friends organically and means that you can structure your week with activities that take place away from the office. Scheduling time for friends to come and visit can also give you a sense of encouragement; you can be a tour guide for the day and show off your local knowledge of your new area!

Maintain a good balance

Above all, remember to take the time you need to relax. The process of moving house and starting a new job can be stressful, and you need to maintain a good balance to perform your best at work. Joining a local library can provide you with some good books to read, and sometimes baking, a film, or listening to music can be restorative. For those with more active mindsets, going to the gym, practising yoga, meditation or mindfulness can also be relaxing. Self-care should not be overlooked, and there are many apps and podcasts that can assist, whatever way of unwinding you prefer.

For more information on life in the Nottingham office, please see our article here.

If you have any questions about training contracts with the firm, you can email us at [email protected] or have a look at some frequently asked questions here.