General Discussion Thread 2020-21

[Jessica Booker]

I have a question - how much does work experience at a high street/regional firm help me in my applications? I’m looking to get some over the summer but as it’s unpaid I’m debating whether to do that or get another job somewhere else that’s non-Law related but paid. Would it put me in a position to apply for direct TCs?

it more depends what you do in the job rather than the job title/who it is with

 

[CL-BD]

When answering a commercial awareness question like "tell me about a recent business story/development that is of interest to you" what information should I aim to include? What is the interviewer looking for?

I understand some people go for the SWOT approach. Has anyone answered such questions successfully in a different way?

 

[Jessica Booker]

When answering a commercial awareness question like "tell me about a recent business story/development that is of interest to you" what information should I aim to include? What is the interviewer looking for?

I understand some people go for the SWOT approach. Has anyone answered such questions successfully in a different way?

I don’t think SWOT is necessary for structure. It depends on the news story though.

the interviewer is trying to gauge your interest in commercial matters and your ability to articulate things in a clear and concise manner.

 

[D]

When answering a commercial awareness question like "tell me about a recent business story/development that is of interest to you" what information should I aim to include? What is the interviewer looking for?

I understand some people go for the SWOT approach. Has anyone answered such questions successfully in a different way?

I would simply describe a story that has interested you and then reflect upon it. When I reflect, I do so from the perspective of a law firm and discuss how I think it may affect them. Essentially, a less rigid SWOT approach, but, acknowledging the fact that there is a connection to the firm to show I am commercially aware.

 

[Ifmhouse4]

I don’t know if this helps but I spoke to Macfarlanes Grad Rec and asked when we should expect to hear back in regards to Direct TC apps and they said over the next few weeks!

 

[Xanderz]

Hi guys,

I have a TC interview coming up and I’ve been preparing some motivation answers. I am a non-law student and have no vac scheme experiences. How would you recommend giving an answer for questions like:

‘How would you know you would like the role that a trainee does’

When you don’t have any practical experience. I’ve spoken to associates at talks and such but I’m not sure if it’s a compelling enough reason. I’m linking the skills/roles that trainees use to my own experiences I have had.

Another question that I was struggling to answer honestly, was about working long hours. It honestly doesn’t phase me but I think coming up with an honest answer is quite difficult. Its not true to say that you like working long hours, as no-one does.

Thank you for your help!

 

[bzheng]

has anyone heard back from white & case after AC?

 

[Andre]

Have direct TC ACs for Hogan Lovells taken place yet?

 

[lawstudent2111]

Shepherd and Wedderburn insight evening in Scotland now cancelled due to coronavirus fears.

 

[D]

Hi guys,

I have a TC interview coming up and I’ve been preparing some motivation answers. I am a non-law student and have no vac scheme experiences. How would you recommend giving an answer for questions like:

‘How would you know you would like the role that a trainee does’

When you don’t have any practical experience. I’ve spoken to associates at talks and such but I’m not sure if it’s a compelling enough reason. I’m linking the skills/roles that trainees use to my own experiences I have had.

Another question that I was struggling to answer honestly, was about working long hours. It honestly doesn’t phase me but I think coming up with an honest answer is quite difficult. Its not true to say that you like working long hours, as no-one does.

Thank you for your help!

You can offer comparisons to a role you have completed where the skills required are transferrable.

Also, in 4 interviews I have never been asked about long working hours. The point here is that you need to be solid on our commitment/motivation for commercial law that this isn't even a question they need to ask. Also, it could simply be the fact that these firms don't ask that question

 

[skizzle]

Anyone heard back from Gateley or Bevan Brittan London offices?

 

[Deleted member 5185]

Has anyone heard back from Browne Jacobson post online tests ?

 

[anon0408]

Macfarlanes VS PFO! Not unexpected considering I applied for the spring scheme starting in 3 weeks

 

[Changes]

Hi guys,

I have a TC interview coming up and I’ve been preparing some motivation answers. I am a non-law student and have no vac scheme experiences. How would you recommend giving an answer for questions like:

‘How would you know you would like the role that a trainee does’

When you don’t have any practical experience. I’ve spoken to associates at talks and such but I’m not sure if it’s a compelling enough reason. I’m linking the skills/roles that trainees use to my own experiences I have had.

Another question that I was struggling to answer honestly, was about working long hours. It honestly doesn’t phase me but I think coming up with an honest answer is quite difficult. Its not true to say that you like working long hours, as no-one does.

Thank you for your help!

I’d relate what you know about a career in law from the open days to your transferrable skills.

I had a question about what I’d like least about being a commercial lawyer but not directly about the hours. I did mention having to cancel plans as part of my answer. Not heard back yet so not sure how it went down but I don’t think anyone goes into commercial law for the long hours so I think it’s ok to be honest and realistic. Relate it back to your motivation for the career and how you’re going in with your eyes open.

 

[Asmee DC]

Has anyone heard back from Browne Jacobson post online tests ?

Nope, I still haven't heard back yet

 

[Larry HC]

Hey everyone - has anyone heard back from Fladgate post-app? They said they would let us know by 6 March if we will get a WG invite, but have not heard anything!

Received their WG invite on Sat 7th at like 9pm

 

[M777]

Waiting on vac schemes for...
-Vinson & Elkins (post VI)
-Arnold & Porter (post app)

Anyone else?

 

[Honest99]

Freshfields and Slaughters TC offer!!!! thank you so much to everyone on this forum, couldn't have done it without all the advice that is on here!

 

[Changes]

Freshfields and Slaughters TC offer!!!! thank you so much to everyone on this forum, couldn't have done it without all the advice that is on here!

Did you do Vac Schemes with them or direct TC?

Direct TC apps is my next step (I’m a career changer).

 

[Alexahills]

Is anyone still waiting on Mayer Brown post online tests for the Spring VS? :/

I am waiting as well! Applied to the summer vac scheme though! Feels like there is plenty of people that have received a rejection or offer already. Not sure if we are being put on hold?