Please state the month/year you interviewed at the firm.
February 2021
Please specify what the interview was for.
Summer Vacation Scheme 2021
Please give an overview of the day with approximate timings.
The assessment centre was run virtually. It lasted four hours, from 10.00-14.00. There was a chance for networking with members of the graduate recruitment team during a twenty minute break across lunch.
Please provide a summary of each assessment on the day with approximate timings.
The assessment centre for the summer vacation scheme was divided into three parts.
The first part of the assessment involved an hour long interview with two partners. I was asked to give examples of when I had demonstrated various competencies, such as teamwork, communication, organisation and leadership. I was then asked about my motivations for pursuing a career in law.
The second part of the assessment involved a group exercise. We were given half an hour to read a legal scenario and prepare a short presentation. We then had 10 minutes to deliver the presentation to a partner and a member of HR.
The third part of the assessment involved a commercial awareness exercise. I was given a multi-faceted business scenario and was given 40 minutes to prepare answers to a number of questions. I was then asked to present my findings to two senior associates. There was 10 minutes at the end for questions.
What is your best advice for each aspect of the assessment on the day? Please break this down for each assessment. This can include advice for preparation, as well as tips for the day.
Interview: in order to prepare for the interview, I would research the firm as much as possible, paying particular attention to the firm's international strategy. What does the firm gain from having such a large international presence? I would also advise having a number of questions prepared for the interviewers as this is a great opportunity to find some common ground.
Group exercise: there is not much that can be done to prepare for this, but I would strongly advise being mindful of those in your group. Welcome the opinions of those who have not had the opportunity to speak as much and praise others for their contributions.
Commercial awareness exercise: I would recommend keeping up to date with current affairs and any major news headlines. I personally listened to the financial times podcast (10 mins, daily) for a few weeks before my interview. This gave me a sound understanding of some key commercial issues, which I managed to discuss during my assessment.
Were you successful?
Yes
