What was your application procedure before you used Apply4Law?

We were using the old paper-based system: the CV and covering letter. It was very labour intensive, we had stacks of paper to manage and there was a risk that correspondence could get lost in the post. The shortlist was a lever arch file jam-packed with CVs. Now it’s all automatic, this part of the job is made much easier.

Why did you need an online application system?

So we could get back to candidates quicker and have a more streamlined process. From an external perspective, it means the candidates have a structured and consistent application form.

Why Apply4Law?

We saw a number of suppliers but decided on Apply4Law because of the service on offer. The system seemed to provide everything that we wanted with the added bonus of flexibility should we require anything not currently built into the system. It’s been very successful.

What has been the best thing about adopting an online application system?

Probably the time that it saves. That’s a major factor for us. We used to have to do a mail merge and reply to each candidate individually, which was obviously time-consuming, and it took time for the candidate to get a response. Now we are able to get back to candidates with a personalised email at the touch of a button. It provides a much better service.

What was the set up and implementation of the system like?

Once we got buy-in from the partners, it was a really quick turnaround. They managed to get the system up and running by the date we’d set. We went online seamlessly and it was really simple. It was integrated into our website really well too.

How has the system been received by partners?

They weren't used to any kind of system so we had to explain what it does and how it works. We’ve only had one training contract intake through it so far and it went down well with the partner who used the system to screen the shortlist. One of the advantages is that I can move candidates into the shortlist folder and then he just has to go into that folder, making it easy for him to see those application forms.

Have you attended a user group? What was it like?

It was very useful, especially because there are other people there who've already used it so you can share information. The hot topic when I came was the implementation of the Candidate Watch'. And now we've got it – a great addition to the system.

What happens when a candidate has a problem?

They either email me or they go directly through Apply4Law so I don’t know about it. I don’t get many queries, but they’re usually about something to do with the application form. I tell them to log in to the application again and they can fill in their details. It’s fairly labour-free.

Did you need training?

Not really, it’s fairly self-explanatory. Any question I have, I just drop Amy an email and she responds really quickly. She was particularly helpful in the implementation stage about how we could create a bespoke system.

What’s your favourite thing about Apply4Law?

I use the filtering system the most. I usually filter by degree grade; we ask for a 2.1 but there are always people who don’t meet the required criteria.

What would you say to those who still use paper applications?

It’s time to convert! It’s stress-free and there are many more benefits than using the old paper system.