Preparing for a legal job interview

No matter how well crafted, impressive and skillfully written your resume and cover letter is, there is truth to the statement that first impressions last. Which is why preparing for a legal job interview is crucial in making a good and lasting first impression that will make you a competitive contender for the role. There are a number of basic skills and preparation techniques you can learn and polish to ensure you market yourself appropriately during an interview.

• Research. Once you’ve secured an interview for a role you are interested in, the most important thing you can do is research the firm. Research the firm’s history, their client base, their employees and their case history, as this will prove to your interviewer that you are serious about the role and have a keen interest in being part of the company. Knowledge of the business can also be skillfully woven into your answers, or used to tailor your answers to the ethos of the firm.
• Be prepared to market yourself. It is likely that you will be asked to ‘sell’ yourself to the interviewer and asked to explain why you are suited for the role. With the nature and culture of the firm in mind, think of an intelligent, coherent and impressive way to answer this question. Also, be familiar with your resume and prepared to elaborate on anything they might ask you about it, whether that be your experience, your background or your past employers.
• Ask intelligent questions. At some point in the interview process interviewees are usually given the opportunity to ask questions about the role or the company. It’s important to ask smart and well thought out questions that again prove that you are taking the interview seriously and are already engaged with the company and the role. You might query the day to day tasks of the position you would be undertaking, or build a rapport with the interviewer by asking why they got involved with the company or what they find most rewarding about working with that firm.
• Prepare answers to their questions. There are some standard interview questions that often used in interviews, and while it is not advised to rehearse answers, it is wise to at least think about these questions and how you would go about answering them before you enter the interview room.

Questions you are likely to be asked-

1. What are you strengths and weaknesses?
2. Why do you want to be a lawyer?
3. Why would you like to work with our firm?
4. Tell us about a time you dealt with conflict/your proudest moment?

Whether you’re applying for or interested in government law jobs or tax law jobs, taking time to prepare your answers and research is sure to impress the interviewer and improve your chances of getting the role or being asked back for another interview. Also remember that your presentation is key to making a positive first impression. When it comes to interviews it’s better to be overdressed than underdressed, so wear smart and business appropriate attire and sport a clean and classy look.

Find law jobs that will kick start your legal career. Two Steps has legal job listings for all areas of practice. Visit their website.