OK hi guys - here are my insights from the CC AC last year!
Basic information: normally 6 candidates per AC slot. I am sure you all have had/will have the briefing webinar with Early Talent, so you should have a good idea of what to expect already. Regardless,
The day includes:
- A group exercise
- A written exercise based on a case study
- An 80‑minute interview with a Partner and a Senior Associate (split into two parts)
- An office tour (though I’ve heard this may become a Q&A session this year due to their office move in 2027).
Group Exercise
The task itself is straightforward. What they’re really assessing is your ability to
contribute individually, collaborate skilfully, and avoid dominating the discussion.
- Speak up often - but not too often (finding the balance is key!).
- In a group of eager candidates, try to create opportunities to contribute without interrupting. If someone makes your point, you can jump in with: “Following on from X’s point, I also think…”
- It’s a tough balance. This was my first AC, and I struggled to find my moment - so it’s worth mentally preparing a few points beforehand.
Written Exercise
You’ll receive a
fairly large bundle (emails, articles, contract excerpts - typical case study materials). It’s manageable because the content is clear.
- You have around 40 minutes to read and write your response in Word (autocorrect is on).
- They’re testing commercial awareness/thinking, attention to detail, and written communication - so watch for typos!
- I would recommend bringing your own highlighters and pens to annotate the bundle.
Interview (80 Minutes)
Right after submitting your written answer by email (they’ll print it), you go straight into the interview.
Part 1 - Case Study Discussion (~40 mins)
- You can bring the case study bundle in with you. Both you and the interviewers will have a printed copy of your written answer.
- After brief introductions, you’ll have a few minutes to present your answer and explain your thought process.
- They’ll then ask follow‑up questions based on the case study - some were quite challenging, focusing on commercial implications and wider perspectives. They don’t expect you to know everything. Be honest if you’re unsure; they can tell if you’re bluffing.
- Brush up on the firm’s practice areas and approach commercial thinking with an open mind - perhaps think about consequences and the bigger picture.
Part 2 - Competency Interview (~40 mins)
- Same room, same interviewers (follows straight on from your case study interview) - your backside might be sore by now lol!
- This part is much more relaxed and enjoyable. Prepare for the usual motivation and competency questions.
- You may get some challenging questions, but they're definitely not something you won't be able to answer.
- They will follow up on interesting points you raise, so only mention things you’re prepared to expand on.
- They also asked about my written application (they'll have it in front of them) - so know your application inside out.
Questions for Them: Have a few
pre‑prepared questions ready, but don’t be afraid to ask something that came up naturally during the conversation. Showing genuine curiosity always helps.
Overall Advice
I know it sounds clichéd, but
don’t be afraid to be yourself. I was incredibly nervous because this was and is my favourite firm, but that anxiety held me back. Find a way to stay calm and let your confident self shine through. Someone also asked if I could share what I could have done better so here we go:
- Be structured in your responses.
- Don't be afraid to speak up in the group exercise, it will feel daunting but find a way to create an opportunity for yourself! Because if you don't everyone else will just keep talking! I did speak up and raised a good point, but I was told I didn't speak enough to be properly assessed. But once again, don't dominate - it is all too easy to slip into that "boss" role when you're trying to speak loads.
- Try to achieve some depth in your answers - especially for the case study.
- Manage your time with the written exercise - I ran out of time to check for typos which was detrimental!
- Try to engage in discussion rather than treating it as a rigid Q&A - aim for a conversation.
- One of the questions I was asked was worded a little weirdly - my answer ended up not hitting the point they wanted - so don't be afraid to clarify what they mean/are asking for!
- Make sure you know your motivations really well and ensure that it is linked to you and your interests!
- Good luck, you’ve got this!
