How Attorneys Should Prepare for Interviews
Due diligence, the questions you’ll get, the questions you should ask, and whether to wear a suit.
During interviews, firms are assessing your motivation, personality, and how your practice fits their needs. They want to understand what’s missing from your current platform and why you’re considering a move. For partners, expect questions about your business, financial performance, and client relationships.
Do your due diligence
Research the firm, the people you’ll be meeting with, and key partners in the practice. Look into recent matters, prior firms, schools, professional organizations, and mutual connections.
Be curious about the people you could be working with. You’re considering a significant career decision.
Anticipate questions
Be prepared to answer questions such as:
- Tell me about yourself and your practice.
- Why are you considering leaving your current firm?
- Why are you interested in our firm?
- What are your compensation expectations?
- What prompted each of your previous moves?
Think back to questions you’ve been asked in past interviews. You can also check Glassdoor for interview feedback.
Prepare to discuss recent matters relevant to the position and the attorneys you’re meeting with. Use concrete examples and keep your answers clear and concise.
Prepare your own questions
What are you curious about beyond compensation?
You’re interviewing them as much as they’re interviewing you.
What do you need to know to decide whether this is the right move? Prepare three to five thoughtful questions about the work, expectations, mentorship, business development support, or path to partnership.
Ask for examples. If they emphasize mentorship, ask for an example that illustrates what that looks like in practice. If they describe a clear path to partnership, ask about the last attorney who made that transition and what helped them get there.
Be on time
Plan your route and allow extra time. For a video interview, test your camera, microphone, and connection beforehand.
If you’re going to be even a few minutes late, give your recruiter or interviewer a heads-up.
Dress the part
I often get asked, “Do I need to wear a suit?”
My advice: yes, unless the firm or your recruiter specifically tells you otherwise. That applies to video interviews, too.
You’re making a first impression. Why risk being underdressed?
Considering a move?
Tell me a little about where you are. Everything stays confidential, and nothing goes to a firm without your OK.
Prefer to talk? Call or text 305-395-6696.