Revealed: The Secret Formula to Delivering a Jaw-Dropping Presentation at Law Firm Assessment Centres!

Nov 14, 2023

Written By Nandini Jadeja

There is a high chance that you will have to do a presentation at some point during the application process, whether for a vacation scheme or a training contract. Law firms use presentations at assessment centres to test various skills, and a well-executed presentation can significantly impact a candidate’s chances of success in securing a training contract. This article aims to reveal the hidden formulae to deliver stellar presentations.

Understanding the assessment centre presentation

Law firm assessment centres can include several types and formats of presentation, but they will usually be assessing the same core skills of communication, research, organisation and problem-solving. Presentation topics will usually be given to you in advance and can range from legal issues to business challenges, or even workplace disputes. It is important that you are clear on the style and content of your presentation; read the instructions carefully and ask for clarification if you are unsure. Following the brief provided to you is the first step towards creating a successful presentation.

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The secret formula to jaw-dropping presentations

Clear structure

A clear structure can make you seem in control of your presentation and will show the law firm that you are able to organise your thoughts well.
A typical structure might include an introduction, three key points, and a conclusion, but you should also pay attention to how your narrative flows through the presentation.
For example, if the presentation is around a particular question, you’ll want to ensure that you refer to that question throughout the presentation and link your points so that they flow smoothly.

Engaging delivery

Delivery is just as important as the content of your presentation, so it is vital that you get it right.
Delivery is about positive body language, vocal variety and maintaining eye-contact/smiling.
The right body language will make you feel and appear more confident.

In-depth research and presentation:

It is essential to tailor your application to the firm. One way of doing this is to make a list of any recent cases of the firm that link to your presentation topic. You can reference these throughout the presentation (e.g., this links to the firm’s recent work on__.’
Ensure you reference your sources. It’s also important to do some research around your topic as you are likely to be asked questions on this following the presentation.

Compelling visual aids

A presentation doesn’t necessarily need visual aids, but it’s usually helpful to have them as you can refer to points made on the presentation. They can also help with the flow of the delivery. If you choose to use visual aids, pay attention to how aspects such as font size, colour schemes and images will appear to the law firm. Less is more, so try not to overload your presentation with slide transitions and images.
While a visual aid can help remind you of your points, you want to make sure that you are not just reading off the presentation. Try to only write bullet points/short phrases on the presentation and expand on these during your presentation.

Addressing questions and feedback

Presentations will almost always be followed by questions, and being able to answer them well is just as important as the presentation itself.
Listen carefully when asked a question and don’t rush straight into the answer. If you are asked a question you don’t know the answer to, provide some related information and offer to get back to them with a more detailed response.

The power of practice

You should try and rehearse your presentation multiple times to check that it runs within the time provided and that it flows smoothly. You should know exactly what you need to say and when you need to change a slide. If you can, practise in assessment centre conditions by asking someone to listen to your presentation and provide feedback.

Overcoming common presentation challenges:

Nervousness and stage fright

It is normal to be nervous, the key is to manage your anxiety and channel it into enthusiasm for your presentation topic. Deep breathing and speaking to someone you trust are two ways to manage anxiety ahead of the task, as is positive visualisation. Picture your presentation going perfectly, with you answering all the questions well.

Time management

Being able to manage time is key as a lawyer, so you need to be able to show that you stay within the time allotted to you for your presentation. Practice will help with this.

Dealing with technical issues

Law firms will be used to technical problems cropping up from time to time so stay calm and retain composure as you work to fix the issue. Try and have a back-up plan if an issue crops up (e.g. another device you can use or an alternative source of WiFi such as your phone’s personal hotspot).

Interactive techniques and audience engagement

You may also want to involve the audience in your discussion of the presentation topic or ask open ended questions. This will captivate the audience and assessors and help create a dynamic and engaging presentation, but bear in mind that you don’t want to overdo this.

Handling feedback

Feedback on the presentation is likely to be shared at a later date, when you are told about the outcome of the assessment centre. You should approach the feedback positively and as a chance to do better on your next presentation. Remember that the process of applying to law firms is also one of self-assessment and growth and you will learn and improve several skills along the way. Getting to the presentation stage is fantastic in and of itself, and you should take any feedback as a way to get even closer to life as a successful solicitor.

Beyond the assessment centre

The skills you learn and develop during the presentation will be applicable throughout your time in legal practice. Strong presentation skills are needed all the time, from client interactions and court appearances to internal firm presentations and opportunities to pursue business development.

To summarise, by following the steps and strategies outlined in this article, you can maximise your chances of success on a presentation and unleash your presentation potential. You don’t have to wait until you are set a presentation task, you can start practising some of the skills right away and apply the secret formula detailed above to get a head start for the next application cycle. Good luck!

Selection & Assessment