1. Prepare for the interview - first impressions really count

Presentation:

• It seems obvious but making sure you are dressed appropriately for the interview is really important. Dress as though you are going to a formal client meeting i.e. dark suit with jacket and dress shoes

Plan and Research:

• Take time to do some research on the firm you are interviewing with. Take a look at their website and find useful information about the firm’s culture, clients, and areas of expertise
• Research your own resume. Make sure you know your own history as well as the interviewer
• Timing - try to allow plenty of time to get to the interview. Plan to be early
• Smoking before an interview is not a good idea – it is off-putting even if the interviewer is a smoker themselves
• Make sure you turn off your mobile phone prior to the interview
• Drink plenty of water before the interview

2. The interview

Relax:

• Take deep breaths to relax yourself
• Remember that the interviewer wants you to be the successful job seeker just as much as you want them to be the right firm
• Answer the questions in full and reflect upon your work experience to date
• Prepare yourself for behavioural type questions
• Remember that the interview is an opportunity for you to find out more about the firm so don't be afraid to ask questions
• Prepare some questions before the interview:
• Your questions should focus on the position/firm
• Suitable questions are of a friendly nature and used to stimulate further discussion
• Try to use positive statements such as “from what you’ve told me this sounds like a really good place to work”

You may be asked Behavioural Questions:

A 'behavioural’ question looks at how you behave or respond to a situation. For example "What accomplishments or aspects of your most recent work are you most proud of? and ”why are you proud of them and describe to me how you accomplished them?”

The interviewer is looking to see what experiences you have had. Be open, honest and draw from your experience. If you haven’t experienced the situation, say so and add in how you might respond

Strengths and Weaknesses:
It is very likely in any interview you will be asked to identify your strengths and weaknesses. It is very important that you prepare for this ahead of the interview. Everyone has natural tendencies and it’s important that you know what yours are and what it is you need to develop further.

3. Concluding the interview

Remain positive and let them know you’re keen
Thank the interviewer for their time and if you are interested in the position let them know it. Try saying something like “I’ve learned a lot about your firm today and I would be very interested in this position”

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