Skip to main content

What we look for

Here are some of the qualities that we look for in all graduates

Freshfields Graduates- What we look for

Freshfields Graduates- What we look for

Working with us requires a strong academic record, with a minimum 2:1 degree or equivalent. A flair for languages is also important, and we have a preference for spoken and written Mandarin in our Hong Kong office. You must also be able to demonstrate great potential and a desire to work within China.

We like diversity

We don’t want everyone to be the same. Just as our clients come from all over the world, all walks of life and have different personalities and strengths, we look for people with differing skills and interests.

Analytical ability and creative thinking

Good lawyers get to the heart of the problem fast. They think through solutions clearly and structure their arguments well. They also explain complex issues in simple language and think laterally.

Drive and determination

While a career at Freshfields is intellectually and commercially satisfying, it’s also challenging. It requires the ability to manage a busy schedule and approach tasks enthusiastically.

Flexibility

You also need to deal with new ideas, adapt to new approaches and be able to see the bigger picture as clearly as the detail.

Teamwork

It’s a cliché to say team skills matter, but they really do. During your interview, you may be asked to give examples of the way you deal with different interpersonal experiences, such as working in a team, delegating tasks and accepting authority.

Organisation and discipline

When you work on major transactions across multiple jurisdictions you have to be organised. We need people who can multi-task, keep track of almost constant change and never lose their cool in the process.

Commercial sense

A genuine understanding of clients’ markets and objectives comes with experience. What we look for is the enthusiasm to develop this commercial sense and a desire to acquire a broad understanding of the commercial and financial markets around the world.