What is the Best Way for Attorneys and Law Students to Handle Difficult, Inappropriate and Awkward Questions in a Law Firm Interview?

The best way to be ready to deal with the inevitable tough questions in a law firm interview is to prepare for them ahead of time.  A tough question is usually tough because you are not sure of the answer when the question is asked.  If, however, you have done your homework and are sufficiently prepared, you should encounter few, if any, “tough questions.”  This is largely because many of the significant questions in an interview are both obvious and predictable.  Why are you looking?  Why are you interested in this firm?  What is the story behind this reference in your resume?   What are you looking for?  While there are certainly going to be some less obvious and predictable questions, most of them will still be generally easy to handle or otherwise not that important – e.g., what were your favorite subjects in college?  The truly tough question that you absolutely must prepare for is the one that you really do not want to be asked (if you have one).  The question may be obvious and predictable, such as the gap on the employment part of your resume.  Or it might be something more subtle that is not likely to be asked, but still might be.  Either way, you should be fully prepared to give your best (truthful) answer.  Having another person (such as a recruiter) help you to prepare for the interview is also important, because they can see and hear things that you may not.  They can also evaluate your answers and manner of speaking in a more objective manner.  Such assistance is particularly valuable when it comes to preparing for that “unwanted” question.

 

• See Top Ten Interview Questions for more information

Of course, there could be tough questions that you cannot reasonably expect and prepare for.  One example of this is the classic “oddball” question.  Imagine if you were asked, as I once was in a law firm interview:  “If you were stranded on a desert island for a year, and could take three people with you, who would they be?”  Regardless of what the unforeseen question it is, however, this is a good time to show off your improvisational skills.  It is also helpful to remember is your “key themes.”  These are the important points about yourself that you are seeking to make to the firm whenever you get the chance.  Examples include that you are a brilliant writer, a hard worker, a team player, etc.  Falling back on your key themes can be effective in answering the unanticipated question because it moves the conversation back to the real world, while making a positive point about yourself as a bonus.  Another way to bring the conversation back to where it belongs is to give the best short answer you can, and then follow up with a fully relevant question that makes you look smart and well-prepared.  The partner just may remember your smart question better than the not-so-smart question that came before it.
 

• See Interviewing Tips for more information

Learn why attorneys usually fail law firm phone-screening interviews in this article:
 

• Why Most Attorneys Fail Telephone-Screening Interviews

About Harrison Barnes

Harrison Barnes is a prominent figure in the legal placement industry, known for his expertise in attorney placements and his extensive knowledge of the legal profession.

With over 25 years of experience, he has established himself as a leading voice in the field and has helped thousands of lawyers and law students find their ideal career paths.

Barnes is a former federal law clerk and associate at Quinn Emanuel and a graduate of the University of Chicago College and the University of Virginia Law School. He was a Rhodes Scholar Finalist at the University of Chicago and a member of the University of Virginia Law Review. Early in his legal career, he enrolled in Stanford Business School but dropped out because he missed legal recruiting too much.

Barnes' approach to the legal industry is rooted in his commitment to helping lawyers achieve their full potential. He believes that the key to success in the legal profession is to be proactive, persistent, and disciplined in one's approach to work and life. He encourages lawyers to take ownership of their careers and to focus on developing their skills and expertise in a way that aligns with their passions and interests.

One of how Barnes provides support to lawyers is through his writing. On his blog, HarrisonBarnes.com, and BCGSearch.com, he regularly shares his insights and advice on a range of topics related to the legal profession. Through his writing, he aims to empower lawyers to control their careers and make informed decisions about their professional development.

One of Barnes's fundamental philosophies in his writing is the importance of networking. He believes that networking is a critical component of career success and that it is essential for lawyers to establish relationships with others in their field. He encourages lawyers to attend events, join organizations, and connect with others in the legal community to build their professional networks.

Another central theme in Barnes' writing is the importance of personal and professional development. He believes that lawyers should continuously strive to improve themselves and develop their skills to succeed in their careers. He encourages lawyers to pursue ongoing education and training actively, read widely, and seek new opportunities for growth and development.

In addition to his work in the legal industry, Barnes is also a fitness and lifestyle enthusiast. He sees fitness and wellness as integral to his personal and professional development and encourages others to adopt a similar mindset. He starts his day at 4:00 am and dedicates several daily hours to running, weightlifting, and pursuing spiritual disciplines.

Finally, Barnes is a strong advocate for community service and giving back. He volunteers for the University of Chicago, where he is the former area chair of Los Angeles for the University of Chicago Admissions Office. He also serves as the President of the Young Presidents Organization's Century City Los Angeles Chapter, where he works to support and connect young business leaders.

In conclusion, Harrison Barnes is a visionary legal industry leader committed to helping lawyers achieve their full potential. Through his work at BCG Attorney Search, writing, and community involvement, he empowers lawyers to take control of their careers, develop their skills continuously, and lead fulfilling and successful lives. His philosophy of being proactive, persistent, and disciplined, combined with his focus on personal and professional development, makes him a valuable resource for anyone looking to succeed in the legal profession.

About BCG Attorney Search

BCG Attorney Search matches attorneys and law firms with unparalleled expertise and drive, while achieving results. Known globally for its success in locating and placing attorneys in law firms of all sizes, BCG Attorney Search has placed thousands of attorneys in law firms in thousands of different law firms around the country. Unlike other legal placement firms, BCG Attorney Search brings massive resources of over 150 employees to its placement efforts locating positions and opportunities its competitors simply cannot. Every legal recruiter at BCG Attorney Search is a former successful attorney who attended a top law school, worked in top law firms and brought massive drive and commitment to their work. BCG Attorney Search legal recruiters take your legal career seriously and understand attorneys. For more information, please visit www.BCGSearch.com.