Interview advice for lawyers

Preparation is the key to success. It may seen obvious but so often candidates get stumped on the simplest questions, for example, on their CV.

This article provides insights and advice that will reduce your stress, improve your confidence and increase your chances of success in an interview.

Interview discussions will most likely be based around your CV. To be successful, you will need to speak confidently about all areas within your past experiences. The employer will no doubt be expecting you to provide detail about each point listed.

Interview discussions will most likely be based around your CV. To be successful, you will need to speak confidently about all areas within your past experiences. The employer will no doubt be expecting you to provide detail about each point listed.

Prepare

Firstly, it is vital you know the company you are applying at, understand the history, key financials, and corporate statistics from the company website and further sources. Breadth and depth is key. Prepare any questions you may have throughout this process and make a point of asking them at the end of your interview. Interviewers will value the fact that you have taken care in your research, showing you have great interest in working with them specifically.

Be positive

Employers search for optimistic personalities and people who are eager to undertake new challenges. We advise you to never speak negatively about your previous employers, managers or positions. Ensure you highlight the positive aspects when asked why you want a change in career.

Avoid salary negotiations

If salary does come into the conversation, make sure that you indicate that your requirements are flexible. This will provide some leeway when undergoing formal negotiations at a later stage.

Know your selling points

Remember why you want the job and what makes you suitable for this specific role. Back this up with evidence from previous experiences and skillsets you can bring to the firm. Ensure that this central message is included at some point within the interview.