The clerkship process is a whirlwind experience and opportunity where there are a number of ways to stand out and make an impression to the people at the firm, to show them why you will make a great graduate and future lawyer.
Demonstrate your knowledge
Before your interview, make sure you spend some time researching the firm and the areas of law they specialise in. As a start, familiarise yourself with current legal issues and trends (most of which the firm will probably have written about on their website anyway). If you’ve referenced a particular case, or legal trend in your application, make sure you’re prepared to answer questions about it.
Be professional
Dress appropriately for the interview and arrive ahead of time. It’s important to show your personality and interests, but always remember to be professional in your interview and in your clerkship. Try to avoid slang or informal speech, and make sure you’re being respectful towards everyone you engage with.
Demonstrate your passions outside of the law
You are more than your legal resume, and throughout the interview and clerkship process it is also really important to show your personality and interests outside of the law and law school. Don’t be afraid to talk about your non-legal work experience, extracurriculars and hobbies as these things will help your interviewer get a sense of the kind of person you are. Working in any customer-facing role, volunteering, competing in mooting, or enjoying playing sport on the weekends - whilst also studying law - will provide you with plenty of things to talk about in an interview.
Be prepared to answer AND ask questions
Anticipate questions that may be asked in the interview and prepare thoughtful, concise responses. A good place to start would be to refresh your memory on the things you mentioned in your application. Try to practice your responses beforehand to ensure you can communicate your ideas effectively, but also remember to try and keep the tone of the interview conversational. Also make sure you have a few questions up your sleeve that you would like to ask about the firm and come prepared.
Network
Networking is a great way to get some insight into the firm(s) that you’re applying to, and at the very least it ensures you have a familiar face when you start your clerkship. Build your network by attending events that are put on by the LSA and connect with graduates, lawyers and other legal professionals. During the clerkship process, most firms will allocate you a buddy, so make sure you get in touch with them too.
Be proactive
When you land your clerkship and are ready to take the floor, make sure you take initiative. Ask questions, seek feedback, and offer suggestions for improvement. Show that you are a team player and be willing to give anything a go.
Dial in your attention to detail
As a clerk, make sure that the work you send out is at a high standard. Although you’re not going to be expected to know everything, the best thing you can do to add value to your work is having great attention to detail. It is important to pay attention to the details, including grammar, spelling, and formatting. Treat your CV and cover letter as an important piece of work and make sure there is no embarrassing errors!
Communicate effectively
Clerks must be able to communicate their ideas effectively, both orally and in writing. Be concise, articulate, and professional in all your communications with your employer and colleagues. Make sure that you clarify any instructions you are unsure with and be upfront with timelines and competing priorities.
Be reliable and punctual
Show up to work on time, meet deadlines, and follow through on your commitments. Be dependable and accountable for your work.
Build relationships
The clerkship experience is all about building relationships and making sure that both you are a great fit for the firm and the firm is a great fit for you! Cultivate relationships with your employer and colleagues. Be friendly, approachable, and respectful. Take the time to get to know your colleagues and their interests.