Preparing for interview success The purpose of an interview is to provide you with an opportunity to build on the initial contact that you made with the firm through your written application. Interviews allow you to show your personality, social skills, general abilities and potential. Interviews are a two way process and just as importantly, they give you a chance to find out more about the firm. King & Wood Mallesons’ Macquarie Clerk Stephanie Daaboul gives a few tips to try and help you through the interview process. Be familiar with your application Your interview is largely based on the information that you provide in your application. Know your CV and cover letter well, and remove anything you wouldn’t be prepared to speak about for a few minutes. Consider what questions to expect Always be prepared with answers to questions such as “Why this particular firm?”, “Why commercial law?”, “Why are you applying for a clerkship?”. Be prepared to share examples of your achievements, failures or past behaviours and discuss them in detail. Demonstrate commercial awareness You should be able to demonstrate your understanding of commercial issues, so start reading up on stories in the newspaper or online, and be prepared to discuss your opinions at the interview (Handy hint: The Australian and The Financial Review have a “Legal Affairs” section on Friday which give a great overview of current legal issues) Timing for arrival Aim to arrive at the interview 10 minutes early so you can compose your thoughts. Leave plenty of time in between your interviews - sometimes interviews might start late or run overtime, and the last thing you want to do is be late and flustered when making your first impression. Make an impression First impressions are lasting ones! Dress appropriately, smile, offer a confident handshake and maintain eye contact throughout your interview. Ask Questions Know about the firm The firm will want to see that you demonstrate an interest in their firm and a desire to be part of it. Research aspects of the firm before your interview, such as the firm’s available programme and your interviewers. However, be cautious of over-using this information. Whilst it is good to demonstrate that you have done your research, you don’t want to be repeating large chunks of information about the firm. An interview is a two-way process, so it’s a good idea to prepare questions to ask at the end of the interview covering issues you genuinely want to learn more about. However, be wary of asking things that are readily available online and should have been covered in your research. Stephanie Daaboul was a Summer Clerk at King & Wood Mallesons in 2012/2013. Tailor your application Before you start writing your application, review the position you are applying for and make sure you understand it. Make a list of what you think the firm is looking for in a summer clerk. It’s worth taking the time to focus on each individual application - it may take longer but if you can demonstrate that you have taken the time to find out about the firm, then that will set you apart from other applicants. Show personality Your personality should shine through your application and interview. Include your interests outside university and the law. This will invariably provide an easy point of discussion in your interviews. The firm is interested in getting to know you, so relax and be yourself. 24 Clerkship Guide 2013