Job interviews can be one of the most stressful parts of the job searching process – especially if you haven’t prepared well in advance. ALB spoke to a number of legal recruiters to get the top tips on how to make the best impression at an interview.
Top tips for performing well in an interview:
Be prepared: Research the job and the firm you are interviewing with, including who will be interviewing you, recent deals and clients that are relevant to the role and practice area you have applied for, and what the firm’s future growth strategies are.
Use your contacts: If you know anyone who is working at the firm, give them a call. Your contact could be a key source for information about firm culture and tapping into their knowledge will work to your advantage at the interview as you can demonstrate to the interviewer that you understand the firm and its culture.
Practise: Think of questions that might be raised or asked during the interview and note some answers. This process will help keep your answers clear and succinct. However, don’t attempt to memorise answers word for word, as you will sound dry and rehearsed in the interview.
Dress appropriately: Looking professional is essential. Always dress in business attire and avoid strong or loud colours. Remember that clean lines and simplicity is the key to looking good for a legal interview.
Be on time: Never turn up late for an interview; not only is it the worst way to begin, it also suggests to the firm that you are tardy when it comes to dealing with clients.
Switch off all electronic equipment: The biggest turn off for any law firm is for an interviewee to answer their mobile during an interview. Not only is it rude, this also displays a lack of interest in the role and the firm which is looking to hire you.
Be yourself: Firms use interviews to assess what jobseekers would be like as colleagues and business partners, so it’s important to be professional – but to also let your personality shine through. Also, remember to speak clearly and enthusiastically about yourself, your experiences and skills.
Listen carefully: Pay attention to what the potential employer has told you about the role and the firm. There is nothing worse than asking a question they have already spoken with you about.
Keep good eye contact: Pay attention to your non-verbal behaviour. Sit with good posture and maintain your eye contact when replying to questions. Try to control nervous habits, such as giggling, twiddling your fingers or cracking your knuckles.
Be succinct: Listen for key words and use them in your answer. This will help to keep your answers concise and relevant to the question being asked.
Be positive: Negative comments about past colleagues or a previous firm you worked for is not acceptable, and shows that you are not a discreet person.
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