"Why us over other firms" question

[Polzovatel]

Hi,
For this question, do you have to mention other firms specifically or is it just basically, 'Why us'?

 

[Jessica Booker]

Hi,
For this question, do you have to mention other firms specifically or is it just basically, 'Why us'?

It isn't really just "why us" - it requires your answer to be a little more comparative. You don't have to be specific and name firms - sometimes people just explain the factors they have considered when applying to other firms, or the type of firm they have applied to rather than being specific. However, I feel that in more cases than not, answers are stronger with specific names (doesn't have to be all names, could be referencing only one or two).

 

[Alice G]

Hi,
For this question, do you have to mention other firms specifically or is it just basically, 'Why us'?

I agree with @Jessica Booker. You don’t need to state numerous firms are your analysis and comparison will be diluted. Try to focus on key competitors too which the firm would likely be seen to consider their nearest competition- it wouldn’t really make sense to draw comparisons with firms who are quite polarised in most respects

 

[Jessica Booker]

It also doesn't need to be an obvious competitor. If you have a strong interest in more niche practices, then the competitors might not be obvious. If other factors have influenced your decision to apply, like secondment opportunities or method in which trainees are supervised, then the firms you are referencing may not be direct competitors.

It is really for you to explain the similarities to why you have chosen the firms you have applied to (which is the purpose of the question). It is sounding out your logic and decision making relevant to your career choices.

 

[Polzovatel]

Thank you very much for your prompt replies!