Landing your first law firm interview is an exciting milestone, but it can also be nerve-wracking. The legal profession is highly competitive, and a strong impression is key to securing a position. Whether you’re interviewing for a training contract or your first legal role, thorough preparation can set you apart. Here’s a quick guide to help you feel confident and ready!
One of the first things interviewers look for is whether you’ve done your homework on them. Take time to understand the following about the firm:
Be prepared to explain why you want to work at their firm specifically and how your interests and experience align with their work.
Carefully review the job description and identify the skills and qualities the firm is seeking. Consider how your experiences, whether academic, professional, or extracurricular, align with the role.
If you are unsure of the best way to showcase your skills and answer behavioural law firm job interview questions, have a look at this blog.
Prepare for Common Interview Questions
While every interview is unique, there are some common questions you’re likely to encounter:
Practice your answers to these questions, but avoid sounding rehearsed. Focus on being genuine and concise. You need to get across your best qualities without exaggerating or sounding forced.
Have a read at this blog post, where we discuss some common interview questions and how to answer them.
Clear and confident communication is essential in the legal profession. It is especially important to practice speaking about yourself prior to your interview so that you come across as the ideal candidate. Whether you choose to practice with a mock interview with a friend or family member or conduct a professional mock interview at a job centre. Practice makes perfect!
You’ll likely be invited to ask your questions at the end of the interview. This is your chance to show off how much you know about the firm and the legal sector. Unique and well-thought-out questions are bound to impress your interviewer. Always have some questions prepared beforehand, and pick ones relevant to the firm you are interviewing for.
Some questions you might want to ask, if the topic hasn't already been covered in detail are:
Thoughtful questions demonstrate your engagement and help both you and your interviewer assess whether the firm is a good fit for you. Have a read of this blog post for more top questions to ask at the end of your law firm job interview.
Interviews can feel intimidating and overwhelming, but will the right practice, you should be able to ace your interview! It is important to try to stay calm and collected in order to showcase your skills, experience and interest in the firm.
Don’t forget, you’ve been invited there because the interviewer is impressed by your CV, take a deep breath before you enter the room and relax. Show your enthusiasm for the role, and let your preparation do the talking. And don’t forget, if your first interview doesn’t go your way, it is still good practice and an opportunity to learn from.
Have you had a law firm interview recently? Share your experience and tips in the comments below.
If you are looking for your next job in law, head to our careers page to look at who is currently hiring!