Legal job interviews are different from all the other interviews you have had in your life. Interviewing for legal jobs can be stressful. From anticipating the questions you will be asked to preparing for what to wear. This process can become overwhelming for even the most experienced job seeker.
Interviews are structured conversations, which the recruiter uses when trying to find out if the applicant is most suitable for the role and the organisation. Consequently, recruiters always ask applicants to attend an interview before a job is offered. Depending on your organisations’ preference, there are several means of carrying out an interview. A few common ones are:
Technical Interview
Technical interviews are hands-on interviews as it may include specific questions relating to knowledge of a particular area of engineering, computing or science or even giving a legal advise scenario, i.e. The emphasis is likely to be upon exploring factual knowledge, such as explain legal scenario etc. This means thorough preparation is needed as technical interviews could include taking tests as well to prove proficiency.
Telephone Interview
It is uncommon for law firms to use this means to examine their applicants. Telephone interviews can be a tough one because you cannot see the interviewer, also, it is important to speak very clearly, confidently, precise and ensure that the call is made in a quiet place. Mind maps work well during this conversation, as it allows your thoughts to be organised clearly and concisely. So, get your hands on a pen and paper as soon as you can for this process could occur at any point as it is always impromptu but is utilised in the early stages of an application process.
Panel Interview
A panel interview is the most common method of legal interview. This process involves a number of recruiters interviewing the applicant together. The Panel may consist of only two people but can constitute as many as four or more because this varies.
The key to winning off this type of interview is to remain as relaxed as possible whilst including all of the panel members in your to questions asked.
A legal interview can be stressful, but they are a necessary evil you have to pass through in order to get the job. Common knowledge requires that you need to research the organisation, the job and be ready to talk about what you can offer, but it is also significant for a real edge to actually practice their interview process.
How can you do this?
Interview yourself
If you have an unusual background, be prepared to talk about how it all fits together and leads naturally to the position you are currently applying for. Through this practice process, you are making it easier for your interviewer to put your pieces together by doing this homework preparing your response for them, and you are much more likely to get the job.
Practice discussing your weakness
Do not be paranoid about your weaknesses. Is there one bad grade on your transcript? Have an explanation ready for your interviewer by saying:
“Yes, that was a really challenging module, however, I learned a lot. I have actually utilised what I learnt in that module regularly in my current proficiency”.
Your actual answers matter more than the way you explain them i.e. confidently and directly. So, be sure to practice so you are not blindsided by the interviewer’s question.
Also, do not overlook the importance of really thinking through what you are likely to be asked about. So, prepare your answers to every question that pops up in your mind about yourself and the organisation in advance, as you know your background better than anyone else.
Consider recording yourself
Make a video of yourself in an interview scenario. This way you get to see how confident and prepared you are. From this, you can highlight your weaknesses that you will probably need to work on. Precisely the time difference you use to respond to questions, how clearly you speak.
Seek assistance from a professional
The best practice is one with an expert practitioner who understands the profession. Therefore, Seek assistance from a legal practitioner who understands the profession, and preferably has conducted legal job interviews personally.
Practice a mock interview with friends or family
Your friends and family can be your support system. They will motivate you whilst highlighting your strengths, giving you hints and tips to help you in your interview. It could also be classmates, former co-workers, or even people in the office who might be willing to help you with a quick mock interview.
Few tips on what to Bring to a Legal Job Interview
- Both Men and women can use a nice portfolio to carry copies of all application documents: transcripts, résumé, etc. it is much more foreseeable that women are most likely to carry a bag.
- Always bring along copies of your documents! Never assume your interviewer will have them, it is wise to go prepared.
- Go along with any personal care items you might need: mints, gum, eye drops, touch-up makeup, etc. Do not forget to ask for directions including parking locations, if you are driving.
- Lastly, be sure to turn off your mobile phone or put it in aeroplane mode before the interview.
