Training Contract Interview - How Bad Did it Go?

[nmurphy44]

Hi all,

I had a training contract interview today. Went mostly well, except when the expected "Why are you applying to this firm?" question came up it came up in two parts "Why are you applying to this firm? And can you tell me about two deals we have recently worked on?"

I was able to name one recent deal but struggled to think of a second. My prepared answer to this question centred on specific reasons that didn't include deals, so I just stated that a second one didn't come to mind but mentioned another new team/initiative the firm had brought in that year that I was interested in.

Another less than ideal answer I gave was why I didn't want to train at the firm I currently work at or the firms I did vacation schemes at. For my current firm, I said that they would be recruiting for an SQE training contract later in the year (I am in a region that offers another route) and that essentially I didn't want to put all my eggs in one basket but that it is something I would be interested in (why did I say that??) For the firms I interned at, I stated that I did not encounter the same engaging, friendly culture as the current firm at their insight evening, and for the other firm I stated that they recruit exclusively through their vacation scheme which did not align with my current career plans (to apply for direct TCs and follow my regions qualification route.)

Am I cooked?

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Hi all,

I had a training contract interview today. Went mostly well, except when the expected "Why are you applying to this firm?" question came up it came up in two parts "Why are you applying to this firm? And can you tell me about two deals we have recently worked on?"

I was able to name one recent deal but struggled to think of a second. My prepared answer to this question centred on specific reasons that didn't include deals, so I just stated that a second one didn't come to mind but mentioned another new team/initiative the firm had brought in that year that I was interested in.

Another less than ideal answer I gave was why I didn't want to train at the firm I currently work at or the firms I did vacation schemes at. For my current firm, I said that they would be recruiting for an SQE training contract later in the year (I am in a region that offers another route) and that essentially I didn't want to put all my eggs in one basket but that it is something I would be interested in (why did I say that??) For the firms I interned at, I stated that I did not encounter the same engaging, friendly culture as the current firm at their insight evening, and for the other firm I stated that they recruit exclusively through their vacation scheme which did not align with my current career plans (to apply for direct TCs and follow my regions qualification route.)

Am I cooked?

Hello!

You’re definitely not cooked - try not to be too hard on yourself! It actually sounds like you handled both questions much better than you think.

For the two deals question, interviewers know that it’s tough to memorise all the things a firm has done recently, especially under pressure. The fact that you could name one deal and pivot to something that is still relevant (i.e. the new initiative) shows quick thinking and knowledge of the firm - that is still a strong recovery, and much better than simply saying nothing!

As for the ‘why not your current / previous firms’ question, I would try not to worry too much. You were honest and professional in your answer - you didn’t badmouth anyone (which would’ve been a red flag), and your reasoning shows you’ve thought carefully about your options and the training route that suits you best. Firms aren’t expecting perfection - they’re looking for reflection and authenticity, which I think you showed.

Overall, it sounds like you made a positive impression! I know how easy it can be to spiral about these things after an interview, but try to take it as a learning experience for next time.

I’m sure you’ve done better than you think - fingers crossed for good news!

 

[nmurphy44]

Hi Abbie!

Thank you so so much for getting back to me! This is very kind and very reassuring.

Reflecting back on this interview after a few days I definitely don't feel as negative about it. This was a bit of a panicked post, I really need to stop doing a post-mortem of these interviews!

Fingers crossed I get good news back. If not, it's a learning experience for next time.

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Hi Abbie!

Thank you so so much for getting back to me! This is very kind and very reassuring.

Reflecting back on this interview after a few days I definitely don't feel as negative about it. This was a bit of a panicked post, I really need to stop doing a post-mortem of these interviews!

Fingers crossed I get good news back. If not, it's a learning experience for next time.

Hello!

Of course - I've been in your position countless times before, so I totally get it! That approach is a really healthy way to look at it - interviews always feel more intense in the moment, but with a bit of distance you can see things more clearly.

It's completely normal to overthink right after, especially when you care about the outcome. I remember being super panicked after my DTC AC last cycle, and thinking that I had completely ruined it as I ran out of time in the written exercise and stuttered in the group activity - but I ended up with an offer! I think due to the nature of the process it's normal to overthink the small things, even when things go well overall

Fingers crossed for some good news your way! 🤞 Even if it doesn't work out this time, it sounds like you've got exactly the right mindset to keep growing and improving for the next one