Cooley Summer Vacation Scheme - 2024  

What was the full recruitment process?         

1. Application

2. Watson Glaser

3. Online interview

4. Assessment centre

Which aspect does this report cover?

Online interview

Where did the interview take place?            

Zoom 

What did the interview involve?  

It was a 30 minute interview with two associates (their names were told to me prior to the interview). ~20 minutes were allocated for scripted questions and ~10-15 minutes were allocated for me to ask questions. 

The interview format was primarily focused on competency-based questions (i.e. showcasing evidence of strengths and behaviours tailored to Cooley). The interviewers asked around 6 scripted questions, with some following the format: "Thinking about 'x' competency/ies, tell us a time when...". 

At the start of the interview, I was advised not to repeat any examples used in my application.

In particular, the scripted questions I was asked included:

• Why do you want to join Cooley? 
• Tell us a time when you have done something innovative/ ambitious? 
• Tell us a time when you worked in a successful team? Why was it successful? 
• How do you handle pressure/competing priorities? 
• Tell us a time when you propelled an idea/project forward? What was the impact? 

I was also asked the following non-scripted questions:

• Given your background, why commercial law? 
• Can you tell us more about ‘x’ in your application?  

Throughout, the associates asked follow-up questions for clarification. The questions primarily focused on seeking more specific details about the roles I mentioned, including regarding my individual impact and how I added value to the situations. 

What was the outcome?                                                    

I received an email a week later to inform me that I had been unsuccessful, and was given the option to schedule a feedback call. 

If unsuccessful, I strongly advise that you take up the offer for a feedback call; it was one of the most detailed and enjoyable feedback calls I’ve experienced. 

Do you have any specific advice on how to prepare? 

• The interview is focused on competency-based questions, plus one "Why Cooley" question.  Therefore, focus your preparation on preparing a broad range of examples that were not used in your application, and that showcase the main attributes that Cooley is seeking (e.g. personal motivation, drive, innovation, high-performing etc.). As part of your preparation, refresh your memory regarding specific details about your roles and impact.  
• The interview might feel somewhat stilted due to the scripted questions, but don't let this throw you off. They’re looking for you to convincingly highlight specific competencies and behaviours, so really sell yourself! 
• Prepare several questions to ask at the end.