Group Interview

Sangre

Ok I've basically got a group interview coming up in a few days for an apprenticeship in a law firm. This will probably be the first of 2/3 interviews.

Just wondering if anyone has any tips on how to interact regarding the group dynamic, not sure of the group size. I'm thinking vocal enough but without interupting anyone, will also try and not say something for every question, unless I need to.

Think I'll also be the usual polite, friendly self to the other interviewees, show what a great guy I am.

All tips welcome.

DublinEvents

Just try to think quickly and answer as best as you can. Present your opinions in a neutral tone. Don't try to sound like your opinion is the right one and you don't care what anyone else thinks.

NextSteps

My friend did one of these, and it was all questions like 'what's your favourite colour and why'. Nothing whatsowever to do with law. God only knows how your colour choice is meant to influence your legal aptitude.

Stark

It'll be just like group sex except you won't get to have as much fun before you feel dirty and used

Make sure you're making eye contact with everyone who's giving the interview, not just the person who's asking the questions. This is one of the most common mistakes people make.

besty

Group interview for me tomorrow. First one so should be interesting!

Pablo

I've done some of these.

Basically you don't want the candidate to be over eager but at the same time you don't want them to be quiet. So find some middle ground.

If you can answer a question do. And listen to other peoples answers to make sure you aren't repeating what they've said.

Skittlebrau

Hmmm this sounds familiar. I've interviewed with most of the big law firms in Dublin (didn't get an apprenticeship though so maybe I'm not the best one to be giving advice:) ) Although to be honest it wasn't something I had my heart set on doing anyway.

In the group interview you'll more than likely be asked one or two direct questions. Usually just stuff about yourself. Then they'll pick a general topic and throw it out to everyone. We had questions about reality TV as far as I can remember (it's a couple of years ago now). There were no specific legal questions but there were some current affairs.

A simple but important thing is be articulate. There were a couple in mine that really couldn't string a proper sentence together. Doesn't come across well at all.

Don't feel you have to say something about every topic. You're much better off making a few well made valid points then being seen as someone who just likes the sound of their own voice.

And I did make it past the group stage on to the individual interviews just in case you're wondering. Obviously I just need to work on the solo stage :rolleyes:


Good luck. It's tough to get an apprenticeship. Even just to get an interview puts you way ahead of most applicants.

besty

Thanks for the advice everyone! It went well today and a friend of mine was in with me too so that was good. The other thing was that it was myself and 5 girls so hopefully they'll remember me!

Sangre

Thanks for advice, went well I think. Went for relaxed, easy going approach. Didn't try and ramble on when I'd nothing to say like some people clearly did, I was mentally willing some to shut up for their own sake.

Got a laugh out of the everyone though which is always good!