Discover the Proven Formula for a Flawless Law Training Contract Video Interview

Nov 30, 2023

Written By Megan Hornsby

Law training contract video interviews have become an integral part of modern legal recruitment. This article is your ultimate guide to mastering the law training contract video interview. Discover the proven formula for success as we delve into why video interviews are introduced, their common format, question preparation, practical considerations, and how to handle unexpected situations.

Format Of The law training contract video interview

Law video interviews have grown in popularity amongst law firm recruitment cycles, offering flexibility for both graduate recruitment and students.

The video interviews typically begin with a pre-recorded message from the law firm, introducing the process. Students usually get an option to practise, followed by three pre-recorded questions, allowing multiple attempts. Familiarising yourself with the platform during the practice phase is vital for a smooth experience.

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The foundation for success

Treat the video interviews like a final interview and get into the mindset like you would for an in-person interview. Structuring research into why you applied, your skills, and commercial awareness is essential.

It is common for the first question to be either why this firm or why commercial law. My top tip is preparing a three-point answer for each of these questions and practice giving a minute answer for each. Brainstorm the key competencies the specific firm is looking for and plan your examples.

Furthermore, the video interviews are now also a space for law firms to test your knowledge of the commercial space and trends in the legal sector. It is important to research one to two news articles which you have recently read into and think about how they impact clients of the law firm. Thankfully the questions in the video interviews tend to be very open and they aren’t looking for a specific topic, so you can tailor your answer to your interests. In addition, use your preparation to confirm why the law firm is unique; note down its defining characters in comparison to its competitors.

Crafting your responses: being a STAR

A well-structured response is key to conveying your skills, experiences, and motivations; this is where you become a S.T.A.R.

When being asked competency-based questions it is best practice to utilise the S.T.A.R technique. It begins with describing the context (Situation), outlining the specific responsibilities or challenges (Task), detailing the steps taken to address the situation (Action), and concludes by highlighting the outcomes or achievements (Result).

When discussing the result of your actions it is good practice to link your experience to the role of a trainee. For example, “my clear communication led to increased engagement with the media produced, and as a trainee I will utilise my clear communication skills when writing advice memos for clients”

Remember, you are the STAR in this scenario not the team. Do not undersell your experiences or actions in the situation, if your actions in a team ensured the deadline was met, tell them. Examples of competency questions can be found on the AllAboutLaw website here.

Mastering Body Language and Presentation

Graduate recruitment is going to be watching hundreds of video interviews, so make sure they are not going to be distracted by anything. Choose appropriate attire which not only promotes your professionalism but also makes you feel like you are entering the corporate environment. Looking professional also expands to the room you are completing the interview in.The rule is if you'd hide it from your parents, hide it from the camera: no overflowing washing baskets, unmade beds, or mountains of cups.

Handling technical challenges with confidence

We all know that technology can play up sometimes, but you need to troubleshoot potential problems prior to completing the video interviews. The video interviews platform will give you a chance to practise the interview before recording. Make sure you rewatch your practice attempts to see if the camera is fuzzy or the sound isn’t working too well.

However, things do go wrong sometimes. If the sound cuts off at the last minute or your video freezes, try to stay calm and composed. This is a chance to show your adaptability and professionalism.

Practice Makes Perfect

Rehearsing answers builds your confidence and competence in this area so just give it a go, whether you are in the shower or on a walk. Do not be afraid to rope your friends or family into your rehearsal; write down some questions and practice answering them in front of people.

Post-interview etiquette and follow-up

Video interviews are nerve wracking. Once you finish your mind always go back to a word you mispronounced or you then remember a better example of a competency. A video interview is not meant to be perfect, in an in-person interview you would trip up on your words so do not worry if you do so in your video interviews.

If your application is not progressed following your video interviews, never forget to ask for feedback. The worst graduate recruitment will ever say is no.

Successfully navigating law training contract video interviews requires thorough preparation, concise responses and enthusiasm. With the tips this article has given, you can hone your skills and head into the recruitment cycle knowing you have the skills to become a trainee.

Selection & Assessment