Securing a position in this industry is a significant milestone in any lawyer's career. But here’s the truth: the journey to success doesn’t begin in the interview room - it begins long before. The key? Thorough preparation. It’s not just helpful … it’s essential if you want to make a lasting impression and land your dream role.
Let’s break it down so you can approach your next interview with the tricks required to win.
A Role Worth Your Effort
You’ve done the hard yards: updating your CV; scouring the job market; and possibly working with a recruitment specialist (shoutout if it’s us!). The good news? You’ve been invited to an interview - hooray!
Now please, take our advice and prepare. We can’t emphasise that enough. This is where the real work begins. At Law Staff, we’ve spent over 35 years coaching candidates like you, to succeed. We provide detailed pre-interview emails and personalised calls; unpacking the role; the team; the work mix; the culture; the format of your meeting (conversational/formal/interrogative); the likely questions you will be asked; as well as the personalities of those people you’re meeting with and the personality traits of people they typically look for. We also include websites and profiles for you to peruse in your own time, to add that level of knowledge and comfort pre-interview. But one thing has become clear over the years: there’s a stark difference between candidates who engage with this preparation and those who don’t.
Preparation: The Game Changer
Here’s how you can set yourself apart:
Get To Know the Firm -Dive deep into the firm’s background. What are their practice areas? What recent cases or achievements stand out? Aligning your answers with their goals demonstrates genuine interest and helps you position yourself as the perfect fit.
Understand the Legal Landscape -Stay sharp on recent developments in the area of law you’re interviewing for. Being able to discuss current legal issues shows not only your expertise but also your passion for the profession and this firm.
Prepare for Common Questions -From “Why are you interested in this role?” to “Why are you leaving your current role?”—practice your responses. For government roles, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure answers for behavioural questions. Tailor everything to the role and firm and please remember to remain diplomatic and uphold confidentiality during your explanations! If youfeelyou have been micromanaged as a Junior – consider rephrasing this feedback to “being interested in taking on more responsibility”! Same message! Different angle.
Engage Thoughtfully -Have thoughtful questions prepared about the firm’s culture, growth opportunities, or recent cases. Not only will this show your enthusiasm, but it might also uncover valuable insights about your potential workplace.
Mindset Matters -Sometimes, you’re not sold on an opportunity. Maybe you’re burnt out, or the role doesn’t seem exciting “on paper.” Trust us when we say: prepare anyway. Halfway through the interview, there is a high probability you will realise it’s exactly what you’ve been looking for and you wish you could have a do-over (too late for that!). And even if it’s not the role you want, a well-prepared, confident interview is never a wasted opportunity - it builds skills for the next one.
Polish Your Presentation -Your appearance and demeanour matter. Choose professional attire that reflects your respect for the opportunity. Maintain eye contact, offer a firm handshake, and exude positive body language. Communication goes beyond words; it’s in how you carry yourself. Mock interviews with a trusted mentor or friend can help refine your responses and ease nerves. And don’t forget the power of the follow-up: detailed feedback post interview will reinforce your interest and leave a positive impression.
Even if you decide that a role isn’t the right fit for you, maintain your professionalism and leave a positive impression. The legal industry is a small world, and you never know when your path may cross with your interviewers again.Preparing for an interview is about more than showcasing your legal knowledge. It’s about presenting yourself as a well-rounded professional who’s ready to contribute meaningfully to a firm’s success. Approach every interview with confidence, authenticity, and a genuine passion for your craft.
Remember, you never get a second chance to make a first impression. With the right preparation, you’ll not only step into that interview room - you’ll stand out.