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  4. Application Advice – Harriet at Bristows

Application Advice – Harriet at Bristows

We caught up with Harriet on Bristows Graduate Careers Team, to uncover the top tips you’ll need to ace the application process. Keep reading to find out more…

Overview of the application process:

  1. Written exercise and video interview
  2. First stage interview with Senior Associate and Partner 
  3. Two set exercises and a second stage interview with two partners 

Top 3 tips and tricks for each stage of the process

Stage 1:

  1. Do your research! Try to include research on the type of sector, clients and culture the firm you are applying to has.
  2. Demonstrate that research - Do not send blanket applications across all firms, tailor each one to show what makes you a great fit
  3. Be authentic, include hobbies, interests and work experience that is not all law focused - we like well-rounded people!

Stage 2:

  1. Re-read your application form so you are familiar with what your interviewers will have read about you, it may help you prepare some answers about yourself 
  2. Be punctual - either test the online platform beforehand so you know how it works or make sure your journey gives you plenty of time to arrive on time
  3. Keep researching the firm, whether that be recent cases or trends which impact all law firms - keep reading around these topics and be as informed as you can be

Stage 3:

  1. Practice structuring open ending answers, use SWOT or PESTLE techniques and get comfortable with your style of speaking
  2. Focus your research on commercial awareness, look at current affairs in the news and in the legal world
  3. Come with questions, this is your last chance to decide if this firm is a good fit for you so make sure you feel happy and comfortable 

Any final general advice you think is useful to know ahead of applying:

My overall advice is really just hammering home that research is everything, not just to wow your interviewers but to ensure you know what you want for your future career. The authenticity point is so key for Bristows, our culture and our friendliness is so important so make sure to show the other side of you through the applications and interviews - what would make you a great colleague besides just being a potential brilliant lawyer. We hope our trainees will get involved in clubs, committees and embrace everything Bristows has to offer! 

Keen to find out more about Bristows? View their profile here!