How to get a job at Linklaters
20 real interview questions, insider tips on the hiring process, and what Linklaters actually looks for. Most people read about it. Very few practise for it.
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Your question
“Tell me about yourself and what makes you a strong candidate for this role.”
About Linklaters
Company overview
Linklaters is one of the world's leading law firms and a founding member of the Magic Circle. Based in London with a strong global presence, the firm advises on complex cross-border transactions, disputes, and regulatory matters.
The firm is recognised for technical excellence and innovation in finance, M&A, capital markets, and dispute resolution. They work with premier clients including multinational corporations, financial institutions, and government bodies.
Linklaters has built a reputation as a thought leader in legal innovation, technology integration, and sustainable business practices.
Inside the company
Culture & values at Linklaters
Linklaters champions diversity, inclusion, and innovation. The firm values intellectual excellence, client service, and a commitment to responsible business. They foster a collaborative culture where associates are empowered to contribute ideas and take ownership of their development.
The firm invests in continuous learning, mentoring relationships, and exposure to cutting-edge legal and business challenges. They believe in supporting their people through structured development pathways.
Why people want to work here
Lead on landmark transactions and disputes; work with world-class legal minds; structured training with clear progression; generous compensation package; strong focus on wellbeing and flexible working; opportunities to influence firm strategy.
What to expect
Working at Linklaters
The working environment at Linklaters reflects the law sector — structured but dynamic, with a mix of planned project work and responsive tasks. Most roles involve regular collaboration with colleagues across different teams and functions, with clear expectations for deliverables and timelines. Flexible and hybrid working arrangements are increasingly common, and the organisation recognises that different roles require different working patterns.
As a 2,800+-person organisation, Linklaters sits at a size where you can genuinely know people across different departments. Teams tend to be close-knit, and there's a real sense of shared purpose. You'll likely have more visibility with senior leadership than you would at a larger employer, which means your contributions are noticed and your ideas can reach decision-makers more quickly.
The culture at Linklaters shapes how the day feels beyond just the work itself. Colleagues describe the environment as one that values Legal Excellence and Commercial Awareness. Lunch breaks, team socials, and informal catch-ups are part of the rhythm — Linklaters recognises that building relationships across the organisation is as important as the deliverables themselves. Most employees report that the people are one of the best things about working here, and that the team dynamic makes challenging work feel manageable.
The hiring journey
Linklaters interview process
Linklaters employs a rigorous assessment process designed to identify candidates with strong commercial awareness, legal knowledge, and cultural alignment. The vacation scheme is a key pathway to training contracts.
Online Application
2 weeksApplication form with open questions about motivation and legal interests, followed by online assessments
Reasoning Tests
1 weekNumerical, verbal, and logical reasoning tests assessing analytical ability and attention to detail
Video Interview
1-2 weeksPre-recorded responses to commercial scenarios and interview questions, assessed by recruitment team
Assessment Centre
1 dayIn-person day with group exercises, presentation, case interview, and interviews with partners
Partner Final Interview
45 minutesMeeting with senior partner to discuss career aspirations and firm fit
Applications usually open in autumn. Vacation schemes run during summer, typically leading to training contract offers in the following year.
Insider tips
Demonstrate awareness of the legal market and Linklaters' recent deals; prepare thoughtful questions about practice areas; show genuine interest in the firm's values around innovation and inclusion; provide concrete examples of teamwork and problem-solving.
Stand out from the crowd
What Linklaters looks for
Legal Excellence
Strong academic background with evidence of legal knowledge and analytical thinking. Candidates should understand key legal principles and their practical applications.
Commercial Awareness
Understanding of business models, markets, and the regulatory environment. Ability to see transactions from the client's perspective and understand commercial drivers.
Communication Skills
Excellent written and oral communication. Ability to present complex information clearly to diverse audiences and engage confidently in discussions.
Innovation Mindset
Openness to new ideas and approaches. Willingness to embrace technology and challenge traditional practices. Curiosity about emerging legal issues.
Collaborative Spirit
Ability to work effectively in teams, support colleagues, and contribute positively to firm culture. Genuine interest in diversity and inclusion.
Real questions asked
Linklaters interview questions
20 questions sourced from real Linklaters candidates. Practise answering them out loud before your interview.
- 1What recent Linklaters transaction or case impressed you and why?
- 2How do you stay informed about legal and commercial developments?
- 3Tell us about a time you've influenced others without formal authority
- 4Why commercial law appeals to you specifically?
- 5Describe your experience with different areas of law and what you've enjoyed
- 6How would you approach a task you'd never done before?
- 7What do you understand by Linklaters' commitment to innovation?
- 8Tell us about a time you've worked under pressure with a tight deadline
Your career here
Growth & development at Linklaters
Career progression at Linklaters follows a relatively clear path for most roles. Promotions typically depend on demonstrating increased responsibility, deeper expertise, and leadership capability — whether that's leading teams, managing clients, or driving technical innovation. The organisation values both specialist depth and the ability to take on broader management responsibilities, so there are usually multiple progression routes available. Don't assume you need to move into management to advance — many law organisations increasingly recognise and reward technical and specialist career paths.
Linklaters invests in structured learning and development programmes, including access to training courses, conferences, and professional certifications. Many employees report that the L&D budget is generous and genuinely encouraged — not just a line in the benefits package that nobody actually uses. Whether it's technical upskilling, leadership development, or industry certifications, there's real support for continuous learning. While formal mentoring programmes may vary across departments, the culture generally encourages learning from more experienced colleagues. Building relationships with senior team members is one of the most effective ways to accelerate your development — seek out people whose career trajectory you admire and ask them for advice regularly. Linklaters also offers sabbatical leave for longer-serving employees — a rare benefit that demonstrates genuine commitment to employee wellbeing and personal development beyond day-to-day work.
For legal services professionals, Linklaters offers exposure to projects and challenges that build a strong CV whether you stay long-term or move on after a few years. The skills and experience you gain — particularly around Legal Excellence and Commercial Awareness — are transferable across the law sector and beyond. Internal mobility is possible for strong performers, with opportunities to move between teams, departments, or even locations as your career develops. Many senior leaders at Linklaters started in entry-level or early-career positions, which speaks to the genuine career development opportunities available.
Compensation
Salary & benefits at Linklaters
Market-competitive salary. Training contract: £31,000-£33,000 (year 1), £36,000-£39,000 (year 2). Newly qualified: £100,000-£120,000.
Notable benefits
How they hire
What it's like interviewing at Linklaters
With 2,800+ employees, Linklaters doesn't hire in massive volumes, which means each vacancy gets focused attention. You're less likely to be processed through an impersonal system — expect more direct interaction with hiring managers earlier in the process. The flip side is that roles may appear less frequently, so when a position opens, move quickly with a strong application.
The interview culture at Linklaters balances professionalism with personality. They're assessing whether you can do the job and whether you'll fit the team — both matter. Come prepared to demonstrate Legal Excellence and Commercial Awareness through specific examples, but also be ready for more open-ended conversation about your ambitions and what motivates you.
Life at the company
Work-life balance at Linklaters
Linklaters offers flexible and hybrid working arrangements for most roles. The specifics vary by team and function — some roles are predominantly remote, others require regular office presence — but the overall direction is towards flexibility. This isn't just policy on paper: employees generally report that managers support flexible working in practice, not just in the handbook. Notable extras include sabbatical leave for longer-serving employees, dedicated wellbeing and mental health support.
The overall pace at Linklaters is shaped by legal services cycles and business priorities. Most employees report a manageable workload with occasional busy periods tied to project deadlines or seasonal demand. The company increasingly recognises that sustainable performance requires sustainable working patterns, and there's a genuine effort to support employee wellbeing alongside commercial objectives.
Roles they hire for
Popular roles at Linklaters
Frequently asked questions
What is the Linklaters vacation scheme?
The vacation scheme is a two-week summer placement aimed at first or second-year university students. Participants experience different practice areas, work on real matters, and meet lawyers at all levels. High performers typically receive an immediate offer for a training contract place. The scheme is highly selective, with only around 20% of applicants being invited.
How many training contracts does Linklaters typically offer?
Linklaters usually offers around 80-90 training contract places per year across its London office and international locations. Most offers come from vacation schemers, though external candidates can also apply. The firm looks for consistency across academic and professional achievements.
What is the structure of the training contract?
The training contract lasts two years and comprises four six-month seats in different practice areas. You work with partners and senior associates on real matters, attend firm training, and have a designated supervisor. You're expected to contribute meaningfully to your team's work while developing your legal skills.
Does Linklaters sponsor Legal Practice Course and Bar Practice Course fees?
Yes, Linklaters fully sponsors the Legal Practice Course (now Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice) and bar examinations for successful candidates. The firm also provides financial support for the Bar Practice Course for candidates wishing to qualify as barristers.
What are the key practice areas at Linklaters?
The firm has leading practices in corporate/M&A, capital markets, finance, dispute resolution, employment, and regulatory law. There are also growing practices in technology, energy, and infrastructure. Your training contract will expose you to multiple areas before you specialise.
What support does Linklaters provide for career progression?
Beyond your training contract, the firm provides mentoring, performance feedback, and professional development support. Associates receive annual reviews and clear guidance on progression expectations. The firm emphasises that partnership is achievable for those who demonstrate the required skills and business development capabilities.
What is the work-life balance like at Linklaters?
Work-life balance at Linklaters varies by role and team. Most employees report a reasonable workload with flexible working options available for many roles. Like any organisation, there are busier periods, but the overall culture supports sustainable working patterns.
Does Linklaters sponsor work visas for UK roles?
Visa sponsorship at Linklaters may be available for specialist roles. Check their careers page or contact their recruitment team directly to confirm whether the specific position you're interested in offers sponsorship. Immigration policy changes can affect eligibility, so verify current requirements with Linklaters's HR team during the application process.
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