Withers Vac Scheme Final Interview Invitation. Would be super super thankful for any recommendations on how to prepare - it is in a week for me. They don't give much info other than 'the interview consists of a 50-minute interview with HR and a partner'.
@Abbie Whitlock @Andrei Radu would be very grateful for your tips!
Hi!
Congratulations on getting the final interview - that's amazing news! 🎊
Whilst I haven't been through the
Withers process myself, I can share some general tips on how I would prepare for an interview with HR and a partner!
1. Research the firm and Withers' focus
I'd refresh your memory and do a little more research on the firm - as they're known for their private client and HNW/UHNW work, it might be worth brushing up on:
- Their key practice areas (private clients, family, reputation management, real estate, etc.)
- What makes them different - have a think about what sets them apart in the market. This could be things such as their client base, international presence, and the relationship-driven nature of their work
- A couple of recent deals or insights that they have shared that genuinely interested you
2. Be prepared for the classic motivation questions
You can almost guarantee that at most law firm interviews you will be asked questions such as:
- "Why law?"
- "Why Withers?"
- "Why you?"
I'd also pay particular attention to the fact that they are well-known for their private client work, and prepare an answer for "Why private client work?" in case they ask you this. They likely want to see that you understand the people-focused nature of the work, and why that appeals to you / you are a good fit for it.
3. Prepare strong examples
I would also expect some competency-style questions as well. Have a few solid stories ready for traits such as teamwork, resilience, attention to detail, handling responsibility, managing competing deadlines, etc. I would always recommend
this forum post by Andrei, as it is really comprehensive and super handy to go over before an interview!
4. Expect some commercial awareness
Even though it's private client focused, they still want to see you can think commercially (and I was asked commercial questions at a similar, private client focused firm). Pick one or two current issues affecting HNW clients (e.g. tax changes, cross-border estates, family office trends, economic shifts) and be ready to discuss them logically. Discuss how the firm can help their clients navigate these issues, and which departments in the wider firm would be involved.
5. Consider your tone
Whilst it is important to remain professional in an interview, it's also just as important to show genuine enthusiasm and be engaged in the conversation. They will want someone personable, thoughtful, and genuinely interest in their work, so remember to show your personality as well!
6. Prepare a few questions
As with most interviews, I would prepare a few insightful questions to ask at the end if you have time. These should be things that you aren't able to find on the firm's website, such as:
- "How does Withers collaborate across practice areas for private client matters?"
- "What makes a trainee stand out here?"
You could potentially even ask the partner for their views on how recent developments might change the work that
Withers completes, or how it creates new opportunities / challenges for their clients - particularly if it is a topic you are interested in!
I hope that helps, and best of luck! You've got a whole week, which should be plenty of time to prepare
