TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

[safari3]

Did Freshfields get rid of the Watson Glaser? https://www.freshfields.com/en/your-career/united-kingdom/early-careers/trainee-associate-program

Seems so, but I can imagine it coming up somewhere else in the recruitment process - maybe AC? Also seems they have removed the personal statement for standard questions and they now recruit on a rolling basis. Lots of changes this year

 

[ZNadeem]

Did Freshfields get rid of the Watson Glaser? https://www.freshfields.com/en/your-career/united-kingdom/early-careers/trainee-associate-program

Hi! Yes, you're correct — they appear to have replaced it with a situational judgment type test

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[amrita6399]

I got an invite to the AC for the direct TC today. Anyone else in the same boat?

Any suggestions for useful resources to prepare with would be greatly appreciated as I’m very out of practice with ACs.

That is interesting, because I emailed Grad Rec at HL today and they said they would get back to candidates only by the end of this month. When is the AC? Also, do you remember when you submitted your app and did the WG?

 

[vera.mekhonoshina]

I got an invite to the AC for the direct TC today. Anyone else in the same boat?

Any suggestions for useful resources to prepare with would be greatly appreciated as I’m very out of practice with ACs.

Hi @Fitzroy,

First things first, huge congratulations on securing an assessment centre. It's a huge achievement!

I can give you a couple of general suggestions that would be applicable to pretty much any AC at a commercial law firm.

1. For motivational questions, I would focus on striking a balance between coming across as genuine and authentic and well-prepared. This includes practising the presentation and structure of your answers - it matters just as much as the content.
2. I would try and stay abreast of the firm's latest deals, cases and other developments, especially within the practice areas that you are interested in the most. Keeping up with your research will also allow you to answer questions about the firm's strategy, opportunities and risks confidently.
3. I would also try and get an in-depth understanding of the possible technical questions/ tasks that may come up. I recommend that all candidates learn about the fundamentals of an M&A deal, key documents, as well as foundational contract terms such as warranties/ indemnities/ consequences for breach of contract.

Hope this helps - wishing you the best of luck!