Preparing for your Associate Lawyer interview
Great news. They want to interview you!
Preparing for your first associate lawyer interview can be nerve-wracking, but with the right preparation, you can increase your chances of success.
Whether you are interviewing in person or via videoconference, here are four tried and true interview tips to help increase your chances of being offered the job and set you up for success.
Be prepared
You have taken the time to work on your cv to sell your skills and experience on paper, now is the time to invest in the in-person presentation. Make sure you are familiar with your cv and why the law firm wanted to interview you in the first place. Research the firm, to learn about its values, history, and practice areas, the Partner(s), to understand the chain of command and the people whom you will be working with, and the role, carefully review the job description to understand the duties and responsibilities of the position. Prepare answers to the typical interview questions you would expect to get asked, such as your experience, your strengths and weaknesses, and your interest in the position. Rehearse your answers until you feel comfortable and confident. If you are nervous, perhaps take the time to run through a mock interview with your consultant or a friend.
Execute
Make sure you are putting your best foot forward from the get-go. First impressions count. Don’t be late, plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled interview time, or log-in for your online interview before time. This will give you time to check in, relax, and mentally prepare. Dress smart and act in a manner that is appropriate for a formal interview. Show enthusiasm for the role and firm and demonstrate why you are interested in the firm and the role. Listen carefully to the questions being asked. Be prepared to adjust and answer in a style that matches the tone of the interview. If it’s a technical interview, be specific and know your deal sheet so that you can talk through your experience confidently. If it’s more of a get-to-know-you interview, make your response more conversational.
Ask questions
The interview is an opportunity for you to find out more about the role too. Have questions prepared that are well thought out and that will help you get the insight that you are after. It’s usual that you will get the chance to ask questions at the end of the interview, but, read the mood in the room. If it seems appropriate to ask questions during the interview, do it. This will make the interview more conversational.
What not to do
It’s easy to say but try not to be nervous. You have prepared for this interview so demonstrate confidence. Don’t talk about skills and experience that can’t be supported by examples. There is no need to ask about salaries and benefits. Your consultant will negotiate this for you. Don’t waffle. You don’t need to fill in the gaps if there is silence. Remember the basics like turning your phone off, checking your background (if video), and a last check in the mirror.
By following these tips, you can prepare for your first interview as an Associate Lawyer and increase your chances of success.
If you’re after more specific help and guidance on your interview preparation, then please reach out to speak to your local Taylor Root consultant. We are always here to help you succeed in your career journey.
