Application Process & Interviews at King & Wood Mallesons

It was a clerkship process, so several interviews, a three week clerkship, paralegal opportunities etc. Stressful but well done, and very conversational interviews.

The first step was an application, which included an email assessment task. there was no psychometric testing. The first round interview was with a partner and another employee, and the second round interview was with a partner and included a conversation with graduates where you could ask any questions.

Written application, assessment component was task based. One formal interview.

Online application with resume, transcript and short answer questions. No cover letter was necessary. Followed by an in person interview.

Better than the other big 6, but still rough. It was nice that we had to do a real legal task (drafting a letter to a client and partner) instead playing 'games' that are incredibly stressful and nothing like day-to-day.

As with every top tier law firm, I had to complete online assessments. KWM also has two rounds of interviews. I enjoyed the interviews as it gave me an opportunity to meet people I now work with.

I went through the firm's clerkship process. This involved, in the first instance, completing an online practical work task and answering five interview-style questions as part of my application. I was then invited to the first round of interviews before being invited back for a second interview. I then completed my one-month clerkship and was offered a graduate role in accordance with QLS timeframes.

Did not interview

I can't remember it was a few years ago.

Generally talk about my previous work experiences, describe what it was like to work there, explain why I was interested in a particular area.

Standard interview questions, completed as part of clerkship recruitment

It's very conversational so don't pre-prepare answers. They want to know about your resume, past experience, and why you want to work here.

Think about how previous work and non-work experiences highlight their skills, how they might bring a diverse background or perspective to a team, and show genuine passion and interest

Yes - be yourself and be honest.

Be yourself! If you have an interview, they already know on paper that you have the skills to do the job. Rather, they're interested in getting to know you, so be honest and passionate about your interests & be engaged with what they're doing as well.

Practice!

Be yourself. When preparing for your interview think about what differentiates you from your peers and why that is beneficial to the firm.

Reflect on past life experiences which have been challenging and how you overcame them. Think about your strengths and be honest about your weaknesses. Most importantly, be yourself. Also, come prepared with questions for your interviewers.