We caught up with the team at Goodwin to find out the exclusive insights you’ll need to shine in the application process and get your foot in the door with this global law firm. Keep reading to discover their top tips…
Tell us a little bit about your role at Goodwin
I'm an Early Careers Recruitment Manager - this means that I am involved with all graduate level roles, vacation schemes and training contracts. It’s a great role with a lot of variety and I am really enjoying it!
What does the application process at Goodwin look like?
We ask all applicants to submit an online application form, made up of five questions looking at your motivations, goals, and commercial awareness. This is also where work experience and academics are detailed. If successful through this screening stage, you would then be asked to attend an interview with two members of our graduate recruitment panel. This interview is focused on getting to know you better, and for you to ask any questions you might have. Following this, successful candidates are invited to complete a group exercise and written exercise which are both case-study based. This will give you a chance to really showcase your interpersonal skills, alongside your analytical, communication, and time management skills, amongst other qualities. If successful, vacation scheme candidates would receive their offer and then have a final interview during the scheme. Applicants for the training contract only route would go straight to the final interview.
Goodwin’s Top Tips
How can applicants boost their commercial awareness before their interviews?
I would recommend getting into the habit of spending a little amount of time on this every day. Commercial issues are constantly changing, adapting and developing, so it is not something you can cram for. Try to think ahead about the different impacts that changes may have in the short and long term. Personally, I find listening to podcasts suits me best, but you may find you prefer reading articles, or perhaps watching video content. If there is a particular topic you find interesting or thought provoking, think about setting up alerts to stay on top of any updates too.
What is the top piece of advice that you would give applicants who want to secure a role at Goodwin?
Be yourself! Our application form and assessment process is designed for us to get to know you better, and for you to learn more about the firm too. We would love to see your interest and passion. Have a think about what you can bring to the role and make sure that these skills shine through.
If an applicant is unsure of how to answer an interview question how would you recommend that they should approach this?
Take your time, and don’t feel that you have to rush to provide an answer. Ask the interviewers to clarify anything you aren’t sure of. Remember that interviewers are human too, and want you to do well.
What are the key things that you look for when hiring new recruits for Goodwin? i.e. skills, competencies, knowledge etc.
We look for individuals who are entrepreneurial, aspirational and motivated.
Are there any ways that prospective applicants can prepare for their interviews? i.e. mock assessments, tests etc
My key tip for preparing for an interview is to review your application form and ensure that you are able to talk around your answers. There may have been changes or updates since you submitted your form, so make sure that you are aware of these. Also make sure to have spent time preparing for questions you can predict – the chances are you will be asked why you are interested in the firm/industry!
What kind of research or information would you suggest that applicants should look into prior to applying to Goodwin?
Spend time looking at the website and familiarising yourself with the firm, the work and the culture. Take a look at our case studies and explore the various videos, insights and articles we have available. There are lots on there and it is constantly being updated. I find that LinkedIn can also be a great resource.
Feeling ready to start your journey with Goodwin? Check out the firm and their current opportunities.