Hi guys
A couple of weeks ago I was offered a training a contract with my dream firm. Even after taking some time off work last week it still hasn’t sunk in!
I haven’t been on TCLA long, nor have I actively posted, but I know that I wouldn’t be in the position I’m in now if it wasn’t for the people on this forum. To the few people I’ve had conversations with on here (you know who you are) - thank you. And to those I haven’t spoken with, thank you, too. From the outside, I’ve been inspired by the sheer selflessness of those who post on this forum. In such a competitive process it’s far too easy to get caught up in the rat race. But TCLA is different. It sounds cliched to say, but, in a year where the world seems more divided than ever, the willingness to help others on this forum has restored my faith in humanity.
And if there’s one thing I’ve learnt about the process, is that these qualities are crucial. Yes, commercial acumen, strong motivations, writing skills etc are important. But what sets you apart? Everyone can practice and polish these skills. In fact, in the later rounds, everyone has these skills. The thing that sets you apart is
you. You can set yourself apart.
The qualities I’ve seen on this forum - selflessness, perseverance & resilience, humour etc - are all things law firms are looking for. They are the qualities of someone who anyone would want to work with. And they are an intrinsic part of your own unique personality. At interview, in group assessments, on vacation schemes - don’t forget this! Let your personality shine through. Be yourself.
I think a huge part of the process and being successful is the likability factor. Yes, the assessors are gauging your competence, but they are also working out whether you are someone they want to work with. I think that I was successful because I tried to enjoy the interviews (easier said than done, I know & please don’t think for one minute that I wasn’t a nervous wreck minutes before they started). I tried to break the ice and build a rapport with my humour. Now, I’m not talking ‘Knock Knock’ jokes or your favourite Dad jokes - I’m definitely not advising that. You could perhaps tie in a humorous (but relevant) anecdote into an answer where you’re talking about your experiences/skills/motivations. Of course, try not to go off on a tangent and I understand that, depending on your audience, it can be fine line between Ricky Gervais and the stand up comedian who gets heckled off the stage at your local pub.
I guess what I’m trying to say is that if you can make your interviewers laugh, or even smile, you’re half way there. You’ve got to make them want to give you an offer. Be yourself, be likeable.
Apologies for the essay! If anyone thinks I can help them in any way, please feel free to drop me a line