Firms generally place a great degree of importance on their values, commitments to diversity and inclusion, and investments in corporate social responsibility initiatives. Discussing these factors can help you to demonstrate that you will be a good cultural fit, that your values align with the firm’s, and that you have a desire to contribute to the greater good. 

You can learn about a firm's values, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and corporate social responsibility programmes through discussions with its employees and other people who have previously interacted with the firm. Many firms also provide detailed information about these commitments on their websites and in their marketing materials.

Values

Has the firm highlighted particular core values that it tries to instil in all employees? Has the firm demonstrated success in upholding these values? If so, in what sense?

Explain why you care

Do the firm’s values align with your own, and if so, can you draw on previous experiences to evidence where you have previous demonstrated or upheld these values?

Tip: if you mention values, make sure you understand what they mean and be prepared to discuss them in detail.

Diversity and inclusion

Does the firm take active steps to foster diversity and an inclusive working environment? Are there tangible examples to draw on that are unique to the firm, such as support networks for different demographics and/or programmes designed to ensure anybody can reach the top, regardless of (for example) background, gender, sexuality or culture? Has the firm taken a more proactive approach to inclusion following global events (e.g. COVID-19) and movements (e.g. the Black Lives Matter movement)? If so, mention any relevant initiatives, and be prepared to talk about what they involve.

Explain why you care

For example, do you come from an underrepresented background and feel that the firm has demonstrated its success in supporting others from a similar background? Do you feel you are properly represented in the firm’s workforce? Do you want to work in diverse teams? Do you feel inclusive environments foster greater team contributions and better individual learning opportunities? Whatever you say, be sure to explain the reasons behind the statements you make.

Charitable initiatives and pro bono 

Does the firm invest time and money in certain causes that particularly resonate with you? For example, does the firm advise interesting social enterprises for free, donate to worthy charities, or support great causes that positively impact the local community? Or does the firm actively encourage its employees to commit to charitable initiatives, for example by tying their bonuses to the contribution of a certain minimum number of pro bono hours each year? 

Explain why you care

If there is a clear link between causes to which the firm commits, and causes that you have previously supported, draw this out. Perhaps you previously volunteered to support a certain cause and the firm would empower you to continue this work in some way? Or do you think the opportunity to get involved in substantive pro bono work will add another dimension to your development as a lawyer, through enabling you to build a broader skill set, gain unique perspectives, and consequently emerge as a more well-rounded individual?

Tip: whilst volunteering may be something worth mentioning, never forget that (most) firms are ultimately businesses that are primarily hiring you to help them make money, and that there are no guarantees that you’ll have the capacity to contribute extensively to non-business activities. With this in mind, perhaps don't place a disproportionate amount of focus volunteering.

Corporate social responsibility

Has the firm demonstrated a commitment to operating in a socially responsible manner? For example, has it been awarded B Corp status, or has it put in place initiatives to operate more sustainably (e.g. has it set ambitious targets to reduce emissions, decided to go predominantly paperless, or switched to renewable energy sources)?

Explain why you care

Does this appeal because you’re passionate about social welfare or sustainability, and want to work for a firm that shares your passion and upholds your standards?