Hello!
These are all great questions, and I'll tackle them one by one!
In terms of interview jitters, I don't think I had a single approach to it - I definitely still felt nervous in my
Reed Smith interview! I think practice really does help with these things, and I've become more confident over the years. However, I do think that your mindset can really help. I went into my
Reed Smith interview with the mindset of - 'I have done all that I can to prepare for this, and I will do my best in the interview'. It can be really tempting to spiral into the unknowns and what-ifs, but I'd focus on what you can control (preparation) and remember that you can't control the rest!
For my
Reed Smith interview, I focused on highlighting my past experiences and strengths, and tried to showcase the traits that I possessed that made me a good fit for the firm. In the past, I have felt a bit 'silly' trying to sell myself in an interview - however, you should be proudly showcasing your accomplishments! It sounds like very generic advice, but I do think being yourself is the best way to sell yourself. I went into the interview with a clear idea of my past achievements, but also acknowledging the areas that I could still improve in. I think having an element of self-awareness is really important, as no-one is expecting you to be the finished product.
I'm not too sure what made me 'stand out' to
Reed Smith - to reiterate the above, I think it is just really important to be yourself. There is no real point in trying to stand out by being a different version of yourself, as that firm likely won't be the right fit for you in the end. I had an interest in their Transportation section, and previous experience in those areas, and I think that definitely helped me to emphasise my motivations for working at the firm. I'd say that I reflected on my past experiences, and tried to tie the skills and traits I gained into what
Reed Smith valued and what they were looking for in trainees.
I've enjoyed many things so far whilst on my PSQE year! A highlight for me, which kind of ties into your final question, is that we were able to attend a sustainability talk with the sustainability manager at the firm - this was after bumping into him by the coffee machine and arranging it! Everyone at the firm has been so welcoming and encouraging, and it's been great to learn more about the firm through speaking to different people.
Another example of how I have felt supported is that SQE interns are able to be involved in events all across the firm, and join the business inclusion groups! It's been great to feel like a part of the firm from day one, and there are so many opportunities to get involved with.
I hope that answers your questions
