You have an interview ... now what?

Once you have obtained an interview, you need to return to your research – deepen your knowledge of the practice area. Ask the firm who you will be meeting. If partners will be interviewing you, you can research their careers, as well as other partners practising in your areas of interest.

Practise Makes Perfect

Practise interview technique in front of a mirror or role-play with a friend. Find out if your university careers service offers mock-interview training. Anticipate questions and prepare answers to them. While every interview is different, you can generally expect to be asked, in addition to general questions about things mentioned in your CV:

• Why did you study law?
• What have you enjoyed most/least about your law degree?
• Why did you choose this firm?
• Where do you want to be in five years?
• What is your biggest weakness?
• What achievement are you most proud of?

The general rule is to give honest, sensible answers rather than the clichéd answers you think the interviewer wants to hear.

You will often be asked to provide examples of certain situations that you have been in, and how you dealt with that particular situation, for example, “Give me an example of a time when you had to manage competing obligations”. Generally you will have found yourself in such a situation, but in the event that no examples spring to mind immediately, do not be afraid to take a few moments to reflect on the question. If you are really stuck, try to answer the question hypothetically, for example “I can’t recall when I was last faced with that dilemma, but in that situation, I would…”

What Not To Wear!

When it comes to dressing for your interview, keep it conservative - neat business dress in neutral tones is best. Avoid distracting accessories like dangly earrings and novelty ties. You may think your Bananas in Pyjamas tie is rather groovy, but the partner interviewing you may not agree! Have a haircut, polish your shoes and ditch that borrowed handbag or briefcase. An inexpensive black vinyl document envelope looks much more professional.

Selling Yourself

While you might look great on paper, you still need to sell your skills and personality. You have to perform. Make the interview a two way street by asking questions about the firm yourself (which you will have prepared beforehand). This creates a natural conversational flow and helps build rapport between you and the interviewer.

Body language is also important. Sit back in your chair but don’t slouch, and don’t cross your arms. Maintain eye contact and smile. Mimic the body language and speech of your interviewer (within reason!) This creates a subconscious rapport between interviewer and interviewee.

Close the interview on a positive note: “Thanks for meeting me today. Your trainee program sounds great.” And finally, a smile and a firm handshake!