This article is written in conjunction with the IE Law Society.By Lucía Sobrado
Looking for an internship at a law firm? Wondering what recruiters are looking for? Bring your pen and be ready to take notes!
On November 6th, the Law Society hosted a panel followed by a networking cocktail with recruiters from Clifford Chance, Uría Menéndez, Pérez-Llorca, and Hogan Lovells at the IE Tower. The event provided a wonderful opportunity for students interested in pursuing internships with these renowned international law firms. Couldn’t make it in person? Don’t worry, here is all you need to know!
Preparing the Motivation Letter and the Interview
Do your research…
Law Firms differ from one another. Each firm has its own values, corporate culture, and approach to work. As a prospective intern, it is essential to understand these differences. Take time to go through their website, Linkedin profile, and even the career paths of specific lawyers at these firms to gain insights into their projects and workplace dynamics.
Our panelists were asked to outline what makes them different from the rest, and these were their answers:
- Clifford is characterized by working in small teams, meaning that as an intern you will be completely exposed.
- Uria Menendez emphasized morality and social commitment, which is a major part of their work.
- Hogan Llovels described themselves as a very familiar law firm, with a lot of young people working and leading the international rotations.
- Pérez-Llorca characterized their opportunity to develop and grow within the company, their ambitious staff, and their high levels of fellowship. For this one it is also relevant to mention that law interns should have taken the Spanish track.
These are just a few of the traits they used to define themselves, but we highly encourage you to keep researching. By appealing to specific characteristics in your motivation letter and interview, you are showing them you are the perfect fit for the position!
Be yourself and…be careful!
When engaging with a recruiter, it’s important to remember that you never know their background or personal interests. This is especially relevant when discussing your passions or hobbies.
For instance, if you claim to be a devoted Harry Potter fan but have never read the books, you could find yourself in a tricky situation if the recruiter happens to be an expert. They might ask follow-up questions or reference details you can’t respond to, which could undermine your credibility.
By being honest and authentic, you’ll not only make a better impression but also build a foundation of trust—an essential quality for any professional relationship.
Insights of a Law Firm
The importance of a good impression…
We all understand the importance of making a good impression in class, whether with your classmates or professors. The workplace is no different. Your internship is not just a learning opportunity; it’s also a step forward in your career.
When choosing an internship, consider the “returning factor.” A successful internship can significantly increase your chances of securing a job after graduating from IE. Making a positive and lasting impression is key to standing out.
Being flexible!
As an intern, demonstrating flexibility and an open mind is key to making a positive impression. Lawyers working at the firm are willing to teach you and show you how things work.
To make the most of this opportunity, show that you are an active listener who values their feedback and is receptive to constructive criticism. This not only shows your commitment to growth, but also signals respect for the experience and knowledge of those mentoring you.
Being part of a team!
Contrary to the individualistic portrayal of lawyers often seen in movies, working in a law firm requires group work and compassion towards others.
For example, if you notice a team member staying late to complete a task, consider offering your assistance. After all, it’s not about competing against one another—it’s about striving for collective success.
Beyond the professional gains, the relationships you build in a law firm can often turn into lifelong friendships, making teamwork not just a professional necessity but a personal opportunity.
Featured image courtesy of Lucía Sobrado
