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    10 Tips for Interview Success from a Partner

    By HFW

    Michael Buffham, a Partner at HFW, and seasoned interviewer shares his top ten tips for interview success.

    1. Clarify Your Motivation: Explain why you want to be a solicitor and why you are applying to this firm. It’s okay to be open-minded!

    2. Prepare Thoroughly: Research the firm and the industry and know your application and CV inside out.

    3. Stay Commercially Aware: Understand current industry trends and how they impact the firm and clients.

    4. Listen and Respond Thoughtfully: Avoid over-preparing or scripting your answers. Listen carefully and respond naturally.

    5. Express Yourself Clearly: Speak slowly, be concise, provide examples, and structure your answers well.

    6. Take Your Time: Don’t be afraid to pause and think before answering.

    7. Consider Multiple Perspectives: Try to see things from both sides of an argument.

    8. Ask Insightful Questions: Prepare questions that will help you understand the firm better and aren’t easily found online.

    9. Be Authentic: Be yourself and answer questions honestly.

    10. Show Confidence and Perseverance: Maintain a confident demeanour and demonstrate your determination.