Internships typically include a team-based exercise to test the way in which candidates interact with others on a mutual task. This could involve researching and delivering a group presentation relating to a particular legal topic or industry trend. It may be structured as a pitch to a fictional client that focuses on the firm’s capabilities, its past experience, the challenges it is facing, the locations in which new offices should be opened, or even the way in which it can offer greater value for money to clients. It might involve some kind of commercial negotiation. The list goes on.

Team-based presentations

If you’ve been tasked with preparing a pitch or presentation as a group, check whether there will be a question and answer session at the end. If there will be, then make sure you know each other’s work and research inside out. You may be allowed to defer an answer to a colleague, but equally you may be expected to answer questions on your colleagues’ work. If you are clearly familiar with each other’s input, then this will indicate to your assessors that you have worked effectively as a team. 

You may also want to consider supplementing a presentation with a handout. This can enhance your presentation and make your group stand out, whilst also demonstrating creativity, effective teamwork and strong collective organisational skills. However, consider distributing any handouts after the presentation, as the content may otherwise distract those in the room from what you are saying during the presentation.