'Where else have you applied and why?' Interview Question

[TheCustardPants]

Hey guys,

Was just wondering how you would answer this question in an interview.

Thanks!

 

[Daniel Boden]

I would say firms that are similar to the firm in question, however you justify it. E.g. if you have applied to Weil, saying you have applied to firms that are big on private equity such as Latham, Kirkland, CC, Freshfields etc. that would work. However, if you mention other firms that aren't big on PE then that would look strange and would raise some eyebrows.

 

[Oliver Gilliland]

Hey guys,

Was just wondering how you would answer this question in an interview.

Thanks!

You also must pick your firms tactically. I have been asked multiple times as a follow up questions "why us over them". So be sure you can differentiate the firm in question with the firms you've picked.

 

[AJ]

Not an easy questions. Agree with both Oliver and Daniel. It’s catch 22 and a judgement call on how I answer this depending on how the interview has played out.

Some firm see this as a commitment to our sector/practice type question, so they’ll want to see you’ve applied to similar firms.

So yes be tactical in names you give. Personally I’d only expand on the answer if asked to and play it safe and name similar firms.

 

[Mimi]

Agree with all of the above, I wouldn't necessarily be fully honest as you're likely to apply to a range of firms whether that is based on their HQ location, size, practice area focus or industry focus etc. So when answering this question ensure there is a distinct link between the firms you name and make sure you can identify why that particular firm stands out.

 

[Lauren]

When answering this question, is it best to focus on specialisms of the firm, for example Hogan Lovell's strength in Litigation? Should I also focus on broader points such as its strength and depth in both the US and Europe to compare and contrast to other firms I have applied to?

 

[Jaysen]

When answering this question, is it best to focus on specialisms of the firm, for example Hogan Lovell's strength in Litigation? Should I also focus on broader points such as its strength and depth in both the US and Europe to compare and contrast to other firms I have applied to?

I wouldn't necessarily say best, but yes, separating through practice areas is a good way to distinguish the firms. You can add broader points after that, especially if the other firms are also good in litigation.

If you've met the firm before, that's also a good way to distinguish it from rivals. For example, you might say: "I applied to X firm, Y firm and Z firm because of the breadth of their international practices, but I am applying to X in particular because of my personal experience with the firm. When I attended the open day in July 2018, I felt ...."