Ask Willkie Farr & Gallagher Anything!

[AI212121]

Well, you can of course do anything you would like, but in the three years we've been running the exercise, I've had at least one person per year who has done this and not submitted in time and missed the cut off.......

i apologise for yet another question, but since there is a time limit, is there a allowance made a few grammatical mistakes here and there since we don't really have much time to review? Also, is the goal really just to get out as many ideas and cover as much as possible or is the structure of the answer (i.e. how well it is presented and written) taken into account just as much?

again, sorry for all the questions

 

[IneedaTCASAP]

i apologise for yet another question, but since there is a time limit, is there a allowance made a few grammatical mistakes here and there since we don't really have much time to review? Also, is the goal really just to get out as many ideas and cover as much as possible or is the structure of the answer (i.e. how well it is presented and written) taken into account just as much?

again, sorry for all the questions

As a trainee/ associate you’d be expected to produce work within a limited time frame and for that work to be up to a high standard. Attention to detail is a key skill and I would’ve expected this to be reflected in the work produced throughout the application process, VS and then on. However I could be wrong and they may allow you to make minor errors but I would believe small errors can cost clients a lot of money.

 

[WillkieGemma]

i apologise for yet another question, but since there is a time limit, is there a allowance made a few grammatical mistakes here and there since we don't really have much time to review? Also, is the goal really just to get out as many ideas and cover as much as possible or is the structure of the answer (i.e. how well it is presented and written) taken into account just as much?

again, sorry for all the questions

Hi @AI212121, I really don't mind answering questions!

The time limit takes into account both writing and proof reading your finished work - we've factored this in. The structure of the written work is important (this is going to be the case at any firm). It is never a matter of getting as many words as humanely possible down - I would always try to answer the questions in a concise, structured way. For any written exercise, I would always dedicate 50% of the allocated time to the writing up and proof reading of the finished work. You must remember that you are going into a profession where accuracy and attention to detail really are key.

We always make adjustments due to long term health conditions and/or disability and/or neurodiversity if that is the case.

 

[AI212121]

Hi @AI212121, I really don't mind answering questions!

The time limit takes into account both writing and proof reading your finished work - we've factored this in. The structure of the written work is important (this is going to be the case at any firm). It is never a matter of getting as many words as humanely possible down - I would always try to answer the questions in a concise, structured way. For any written exercise, I would always dedicate 50% of the allocated time to the writing up and proof reading of the finished work. You must remember that you are going into a profession where accuracy and attention to detail really are key.

We always make adjustments due to long term health conditions and/or disability and/or neurodiversity if that is the case.

Thank you so much for clearing it up, I always hear different things about written exercises for different firms and am never really sure.

Just one more question, how is it decided who goes through to the interview stage? Is there a threshold that has to be met, and every applicant that achieves it gets to go through to interview? Or is it looked at in comparison to other applicants (for example, the top 20 highest-scoring applicants go through)? And will individual feedback be given for everyone?

 

[WillkieGemma]

Thank you so much for clearing it up, I always hear different things about written exercises for different firms and am never really sure.

Just one more question, how is it decided who goes through to the interview stage? Is there a threshold that has to be met, and every applicant that achieves it gets to go through to interview? Or is it looked at in comparison to other applicants (for example, the top 20 highest-scoring applicants go through)? And will individual feedback be given for everyone?

We have x amounts of interview spaces, so it will be the top x% scoring people to fill those spaces. I do have feedback calls, yes.

 

[legal18]

Hi Gemma, I attended an application workshop with you and found your advice and way of going about things extremely useful so thank you!

I was just wondering whether you'd be able to tell me if this is a satisfactory way of going about the question: "Tell us why you want to become a solicitor, and with reference to your experience so far, explain how your skills are suited to the role." (600 words)

Reason 1: I like working in a business context and being commercial.
Example 1: taking initiative and making somewhere I worked more profitable.
Example 2: taking iniative and providing somewhere I volunteer with a new client.
Example 3: groupwork at an Open Day which was commercial in nature (involved pitching a business venture).

Reason 2: I like seeing the impact of my work.
Example 1: as a tutor seeing results for my students.
Example 2: seeing the positive impact of my legal volunteering work.

 

[WillkieGemma]

Hi Gemma, I attended an application workshop with you and found your advice and way of going about things extremely useful so thank you!

I was just wondering whether you'd be able to tell me if this is a satisfactory way of going about the question: "Tell us why you want to become a solicitor, and with reference to your experience so far, explain how your skills are suited to the role." (600 words)

Reason 1: I like working in a business context and being commercial.
Example 1: taking initiative and making somewhere I worked more profitable.
Example 2: taking iniative and providing somewhere I volunteer with a new client.
Example 3: groupwork at an Open Day which was commercial in nature (involved pitching a business venture).

Reason 2: I like seeing the impact of my work.
Example 1: as a tutor seeing results for my students.
Example 2: seeing the positive impact of my legal volunteering work.

Hi @legal18

I'm afraid I can't give bespoke application advice with regards to a specific question for any firm - that's not really the purpose of me being here. I think take what you learnt from the applications workshop and apply it to the question above.

Many thanks
Gemma

 

[lynwang]

Good Afternoon @WillkieGemma,

I just wanted to ask if we were allowed to mention the same experiences/examples/points we mentioned in our written application in our video interview? My only concern is that it may sound as if I am just repeating points as opposed to telling you more about myself. What is your take on this?

Of course, I completely understand if you cannot say anything on this if it may disadvantage other applicants! Thank you regardless!

 

[dessi]

Hi Gemma!

First of all, thank you so much for running the application workshop last Monday, it was very useful. In terms of the 'why Willkie' question, is it necessary to talk about 3 reasons, or is talking about 2 reasons in more depth ok?

 

[boots]

Hello @WillkieGemma

Thanks for the extra time you're taking to answer our questions on this thread ☺️

I am a final year law student looking to make an application for a vacation scheme at Willkie. I gained a 2.1 in my second year, but received a low 2.2 in first year which included 3rds in some modules. I have mitigating circumstances (physical illness, I had also gotten into a major accident a week prior to my exams) and a consistently strong academic record besides my first year results. I also have good work experience - internships in consulting and finance, and a first year scheme at a reputable firm.

Despite this, given the competitivity of VS applications, I am worried that my application would be pre-screened and rejected even if my question answers, work experience, etc. are good.

Am I overthinking? Would it still be worth it to write an application?

Thanks again for taking the time to read this.

 

[WillkieGemma]

Good Afternoon @WillkieGemma,

I just wanted to ask if we were allowed to mention the same experiences/examples/points we mentioned in our written application in our video interview? My only concern is that it may sound as if I am just repeating points as opposed to telling you more about myself. What is your take on this?

Of course, I completely understand if you cannot say anything on this if it may disadvantage other applicants! Thank you regardless!

Good Afternoon @WillkieGemma,

I just wanted to ask if we were allowed to mention the same experiences/examples/points we mentioned in our written application in our video interview? My only concern is that it may sound as if I am just repeating points as opposed to telling you more about myself. What is your take on this?

Of course, I completely understand if you cannot say anything on this if it may disadvantage other applicants! Thank you regardless!

Hi @lynwang - as far I you can, try to elaborate on the points you've mentioned or have new reasoning. The trouble is with making the same points is you basically read out your written app, and it would be my recommendation to not do that.

 

[WillkieGemma]

Hi Gemma!

First of all, thank you so much for running the application workshop last Monday, it was very useful. In terms of the 'why Willkie' question, is it necessary to talk about 3 reasons, or is talking about 2 reasons in more depth ok?

Hi @dessi - two reasons is good!

 

[WillkieGemma]

Hello @WillkieGemma

Thanks for the extra time you're taking to answer our questions on this thread ☺️

I am a final year law student looking to make an application for a vacation scheme at Willkie. I gained a 2.1 in my second year, but received a low 2.2 in first year which included 3rds in some modules. I have mitigating circumstances (physical illness, I had also gotten into a major accident a week prior to my exams) and a consistently strong academic record besides my first year results. I also have good work experience - internships in consulting and finance, and a first year scheme at a reputable firm.

Despite this, given the competitivity of VS applications, I am worried that my application would be pre-screened and rejected even if my question answers, work experience, etc. are good.

Am I overthinking? Would it still be worth it to write an application?

Thanks again for taking the time to read this.

Hi @boots - you are overthinking. If you have mitigating circumstances (please detail this on the app), most firms will be sympathetic. It is important, as with all applications from all candidates, to make sure the rest of your application is absolutely spot on!

 

[lynwang]

Hi @lynwang - as far I you can, try to elaborate on the points you've mentioned or have new reasoning. The trouble is with making the same points is you basically read out your written app, and it would be my recommendation to not do that.

Great, thank you!

 

[jsx7]

Hello @WillkieGemma ,

I hope you are well!

I just wanted to ask if an applicant who was not chosen to attend the open day would be at a significant disadvantage? Aside from webinars, are there any other events we could attend to demonstrate our interest and understanding of the firm?

You also mentioned in a previous response to avoid repeating things in the application. So in the last question of the vacation scheme, should we only mention experiences that we haven't already included in the work experience section? Or is it alright to refer to the same experiences but describe them differently?

Thanks so much for your help!

 

[BBsharkk]

We have x amounts of interview spaces, so it will be the top x% scoring people to fill those spaces. I do have feedback calls, yes.

Hi @WillkieGemma,

I have two questions.

1. For those who haven't attended the Open Day or have no in-person interaction with the firm, are they automatically disadvantaged in their applications? Accordingly, what tips would you give them in terms of showing genuine interest towards the firm?

2. How much weight do you put on grades when assessing applications? Is a mid 2:1 in law in any way disadvantaged?

Thanks very much for taking the time to answer questions!

 

[WillkieGemma]

Hello @WillkieGemma ,

I hope you are well!

I just wanted to ask if an applicant who was not chosen to attend the open day would be at a significant disadvantage? Aside from webinars, are there any other events we could attend to demonstrate our interest and understanding of the firm?

You also mentioned in a previous response to avoid repeating things in the application. So in the last question of the vacation scheme, should we only mention experiences that we haven't already included in the work experience section? Or is it alright to refer to the same experiences but describe them differently?

Thanks so much for your help!

Hi @jsx7

No, you wouldn't be at a significant disadvantage - as I mentioned in my emails to those who weren't offered an insight evening place, we had seven times more apps than places! The webinars we hold are a brilliant brilliant way of learning about Willkie and I would highly recommend coming along to one.

So, the last question on our app form is about positions of responsibility/extra curricular achievements, so there shouldn't really be an overlap with work experience/employment there. I wouldn't enter the same experience on an application form - you can refer to something as part of your why/why that firm answer, but I wouldnt have two entries saying (for example): "October 2024: Insight Evening at Willkie.....xxxxxxxxxx....."

thanks
Gemma

 

[WillkieGemma]

Hi @WillkieGemma,

I have two questions.

1. For those who haven't attended the Open Day or have no in-person interaction with the firm, are they automatically disadvantaged in their applications? Accordingly, what tips would you give them in terms of showing genuine interest towards the firm?

2. How much weight do you put on grades when assessing applications? Is a mid 2:1 in law in any way disadvantaged?

Thanks very much for taking the time to answer questions!

Hi @BBsharkk

1. no, they are not automatically disadvantaged at all but I would strongly recommend attending an event - we held/are holding over 40 virtual events this autumn. Virtual events are just as valuable as in person and more cost/time efficient for candidates. The reason I recommend this is that candidates who have attended an event tend to write stronger Why Willkie answers, which is a key focus on the form. There are always always exceptions to the rule however!
2. we are looking for a strong 2.1 from our candidates. A mid 2.1 is absolutely fine.

Thanks!
Gemma

 

[AI212121]

Hi @WillkieGemma

Just curious, but I saw on the firm's website that the final stage of the application progress is a CV-blind interview with partners and/or senior associates. This might be a silly question, but is it also written assessment-blind, as in would they know the score applicants got on the written assessment? Also how long is this interview?

Thank you!

 

[WillkieGemma]

Hi @WillkieGemma

Just curious, but I saw on the firm's website that the final stage of the application progress is a CV-blind interview with partners and/or senior associates. This might be a silly question, but is it also written assessment-blind, as in would they know the score applicants got on the written assessment? Also how long is this interview?

Thank you!

Hi @AI212121 - the interviewers only know your name and whether you've studied law or not, and that is it. So, they would not have seen your application, video interview or written. The interview is 35 mins to an hour.