2020-21 Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion

[Staples]

VI invite from Bakers! Did the WG last Friday by the way.

This is my first VI with a law firm so I’d really appreciate any tips at all

 

[SecretSantaxx]

Also, does anyone know how long it takes to receive a WG test from DLA Piper after submitting an application? Or is this not automatic?

It took about a week for me.

I submtited my application on 14th November and received the WG test on 20th November.

 

[futuretraineecity]

Hey guys - I have a video interview coming up and I was wondering if anyone had any general tips. This is where I really went wrong last cycle, I lacked confidence in my ability and froze in front of the camera during most VI's. This year I have really been trying to practice, but some tips would be really useful too if possible!

VI invite from Bakers! Did the WG last Friday by the way.

This is my first VI with a law firm so I’d really appreciate any tips at all

Congrats! My tip would be to really try and nail some kind of structure in the prep time like which points you want to cover so that you sound more confident! This prevents you from trailing off and sounding unclear and defo just try to relax as much as possible (I find I get more relaxed as I approach the last couple Qs) and appear friendly - good luck, I’m sure you’ll be fine!

 

[SouffléSouffléSoufflé]

Hi all, just got an update from Taylor Wessing. I thought it might be good to post as I saw others were asking questions about the firm:

"In the lead up to applications closing on 11 January, we wanted to give you an update on your application status.

Once applications close, we will review your application and games-based assessment in consideration for the final stage of the recruitment process, which is a half day assessment centre."

 

[IntrepidL]

Hey guys - I have a video interview coming up and I was wondering if anyone had any general tips. This is where I really went wrong last cycle, I lacked confidence in my ability and froze in front of the camera during most VI's. This year I have really been trying to practice, but some tips would be really useful too if possible!

Congratulations! I normally find that using stickies on my laptop (you can download them on Mac) and placing them close to the camera really helps If you lose your train of thought whilst answering the questions, the stickies next to the camera always help.

I often prepare my video interviews just how I would prepare a normal interview, making sure that I've got an answer for all the competencies the firm is looking for. I just make my VI answers a little shorter and practise them to ensure they're within the time limit. Make sure you give yourself a 10-second leeway though because you don't want to be rushing through your answer for fear of a lack of time! Good luck!

 

[eveh1784]

Congrats! My tip would be to really try and nail some kind of structure in the prep time like which points you want to cover so that you sound more confident! This prevents you from trailing off and sounding unclear and defo just try to relax as much as possible (I find I get more relaxed as I approach the last couple Qs) and appear friendly - good luck, I’m sure you’ll be fine!

Congratulations! I normally find that using stickies on my laptop (you can download them on Mac) and placing them close to the camera really helps If you lose your train of thought whilst answering the questions, the stickies next to the camera always help.

I often prepare my video interviews just how I would prepare a normal interview, making sure that I've got an answer for all the competencies the firm is looking for. I just make my VI answers a little shorter and practise them to ensure they're within the time limit. Make sure you give yourself a 10-second leeway though because you don't want to be rushing through your answer for fear of a lack of time! Good luck!

Ah brilliant thank you so much guys - structure is deffo a good idea, I'm gonna build a STAR competencies table now. And I never thought about using stickies as prompts I'm deffo gonna do that - it's a good alternative to post-it notes around my laptop which can be a little distracting!

 

[JoNo]

Ah great, at least one person is in the same boat! Hopefully I can submit in the next two days

Haha exactly! Good luck

 

[Sam55]

Anyone had experience interviewing with Akin Gump? Would really appreciate any insight if so!

 

[Ed]

Anyone had experience interviewing with Akin Gump? Would really appreciate any insight if so!

Congrats and Ditto - would love to hear some insights!

 

[MZ]

Congratulations!!
Was this for VS and post-video interview? I have mine next week and not sure what to expect

Hey, sorry for the late response! Congratulations on the interview!! Yes, this was for the VS and after the interview with grad rec. I'd be happy to answer any questions you have about the format of the interview if you PM me!

 

[Sandli]

Hi Sandli! Did they already get back to you on the results? I've done my tests yesterday and would like to have an idea of when would I hear back! Thanks

Hi! Hope it went well! Nope haven't heard back yet. I'm guessing we'll hear in Jan now?

 

[Andrew M]

Does anyone know if DLA Piper accepts applications from final-year law students? They seem to have conflicting information on their website and application portal?

I am final year law and I've gotten an AC invite, so I would say so. I think maybe it's different if you are an international student though - is that what you're referring to?

 

[SF1234]

Hi all! Was wondering if I have to mention a rejection from a Latham and Watkins open day on their application where it asks if I have applied for a 'position' at the firm before?

 

[futuretraineecity]

Anyone heard back from Baker McKenzie after VI?

 

[Celestie]

Hi all! Was wondering if I have to mention a rejection from a Latham and Watkins open day on their application where it asks if I have applied for a 'position' at the firm before?

Oh my lord, this is so weird. I am just writing my application for them now - hope yours is going well


While saying that, if anyone has any interesting notes about L&W, please DM me! Would be greatly appreciated. I can reciprocate on some firms etc )

 

[WannabeSolicitor24]

Hi all! Was wondering if I have to mention a rejection from a Latham and Watkins open day on their application where it asks if I have applied for a 'position' at the firm before?

I did

 

[DMMW]

Ah brilliant thank you so much guys - structure is deffo a good idea, I'm gonna build a STAR competencies table now. And I never thought about using stickies as prompts I'm deffo gonna do that - it's a good alternative to post-it notes around my laptop which can be a little distracting!

I'd add to this already great advise and suggest the rule of three. For example, if there's a question asking you to give your thoughts on an issue e.g. a commercial awareness question, stick to three key points. This is an easy way to remain concise due to the timed element and to structure your responses so that you don't repeat yourself. Also, try using the video interview simulators to time yourself and practise (practise makes perfect!). I know TCLA has some practise ones! Remember to look into the camera and not at yourself as this is how you maintain eye contact with the viewer. Finally, stay calm, breathe, and enjoy yourself - you've made it this far already! Hope these small tips help too and all the best!

 

[NikkiT]

Does anyone know if you are automatically sent the WG test by Bird & Bird or if that is the next stage of the application process?

 

[Sam55]

Hey! Is this for the summer vac scheme?

Yes!

 

[nisadee]

What is the application process for Addleshaw Goddard's vacation schemes? I have just read this on Chamber's Student which confused me: "The firm chooses vac schemers directly from their application forms. Meanwhile, following a preliminary video interview, around 70 of those applying directly for training contracts are invited to one of several assessment centres."

So there are no tests, interviews or ACs for the vac scheme?