Attorney Interview Tips That Get You Hired: Insights from Harrison Barnes

 

1. Show Enthusiasm for the Firm and Role

Even if the specific practice area or focus isn’t a perfect match for your long-term goals, approach the interview with enthusiasm. Show genuine interest in the firm’s practice areas, recent successes, and overall culture. Tailor your responses to reflect why this particular firm excites you. Enthusiasm signals adaptability and investment, traits highly valued by law firms. For example, discuss how the firm’s recent case successes or market positioning aligns with your aspirations. Emphasize your willingness to learn and contribute to areas outside your immediate expertise if needed. Building on expert insights, How to Get—and Ace—Your Law Firm Summer Associate Interview focuses specifically on summer associate preparation strategies.

Even if you're an introverted attorney, you can stand out—learn how introverted attorneys can stand out in interviews without overselling.

 

2. Leverage Your Unique Experience

Attorneys should prepare a deal sheet or similar document highlighting key transactions, litigations, or achievements. A well-crafted deal sheet not only showcases your experience but also demonstrates your ability to organize and present complex information. During the interview, use the deal sheet to guide discussions about your contributions to specific cases or transactions. This proactive approach allows you to emphasize your role in achieving successful outcomes. For instance, explain how you streamlined due diligence or resolved unique legal challenges.

 

3. Avoid Voicing Doubts About the Role

It’s natural to have reservations about a role, but expressing them during an interview can undermine your candidacy. Instead, focus on your excitement for the opportunity. For instance, if the position involves tasks you’re less familiar with, frame it as an opportunity to expand your skillset. When you receive an offer, you can discuss potential adjustments to your role. For example, say: “I’m looking forward to contributing to your team and am especially eager to develop expertise in [specific area].” This approach demonstrates optimism and a growth-oriented mindset.

 

• Of course, enthusiasm won’t matter if you fall into the traps outlined in Why Most Attorneys Screw Up Interviews and Their Legal Careers.

 

4. Frame Your Career Moves Positively

When discussing your reasons for seeking a new position, focus on your aspirations rather than frustrations. Avoid critiquing your current firm and instead highlight your desire for growth opportunities. For example, say: “I’ve gained valuable experience in [specific area], but I’m eager to broaden my expertise in [specific area the firm specializes in].” Aligning your goals with the prospective firm’s strengths shows 

If you’re transitioning from law school, check out essential resources for finding a legal job as a law student to help bridge the gap.

 

5. Highlight Work Ethic and Initiative

Law firms value attorneys who go above and beyond. Share examples that illustrate your work ethic, such as leading major projects, working long hours to meet deadlines, or resolving unexpected challenges. Mention specific achievements, like negotiating favorable terms or improving processes. If applicable, explain how you took the initiative to learn new skills or tackle complex assignments. For example: “At my current firm, I identified inefficiencies in our contract review process and implemented solutions that saved significant time.”

 

6. Prepare for Compensation Discussions

Discussing compensation during interviews can be tricky. Harrison advises framing your expectations in terms of growth and experience rather than numbers. For example, say: “I’m focused on contributing to the firm and gaining valuable experience. Compensation is important, but my priority is advancing my career.” This shows maturity and positions you as a professional seeking mutual value.

Remember: success isn’t just about cracking interviews—it’s also about choosing roles that align with your priorities; see work-life balance vs. compensation trade-offs in the legal profession.
 

• For even more practical advice on preparation, see our step-by-step attorney interview guide that builds on many of these strategies.

 

7. Research the Firm Thoroughly

Comprehensive research is essential. Learn about the firm’s key practice areas, notable deals, leadership, and culture. Use this information to tailor your responses and highlight how your experience aligns with their priorities. For example, mention how your expertise in drafting loan documents fits with the firm’s recent focus on real estate finance. Being informed not only helps you answer questions but also positions you as a proactive and serious candidate.

Targeting firms that align with your development goals matters—check out the The Elite Boutique Law Firms in the United States​ to focus your efforts.

Context matters: understanding law firm recruitment trends in 2025 helps shape how lawyers should approach interviews today.

 

8. Review Key Interview Strategies

Preparation is key to acing interviews. Spend time reviewing interview guides, such as those available from BCG Attorney Search. These resources provide practical tips on answering behavioral questions, avoiding pitfalls, and presenting yourself as a strong candidate. Practice responses to common questions and rehearse ways to articulate your strengths confidently. For example, describe how you handled a challenging case or managed a high-stakes transaction.

Before interviews, ensure your resume is polished—our guide on writing a strong legal resume offers valuable examples and tips.

One great way to prepare is to familiarize yourself with the most common questions firms ask—see our post on 50 essential law firm interview questions every attorney should master.

You can further sharpen your approach with these top 23 tips for excelling in law firm interviews, which cover everything from preparation to follow-up.

 

9. Highlight Your Strengths Proactively

Take the initiative to discuss your key accomplishments during the interview. Prepare concise yet impactful examples that demonstrate your legal expertise. For instance, explain how you negotiated complex contracts, managed large real estate transactions, or delivered exceptional client outcomes. Use metrics where possible, such as: “I managed 50+ transactions worth over $20M annually.” Proactively bringing up these strengths ensures interviewers understand your value.
 

• To expand on this guidance with actionable examples and strategies, read Mastering the Art of Legal Interviews for a practical roadmap to interview success.

While showcasing specific accomplishments is essential to demonstrate your immediate value, many interviewers—especially at the outset of your career—will also look closely at your academic record. Law school grades often serve as an initial benchmark for your abilities, and interviewers may bring them up to gauge your discipline, consistency, and competitiveness. After discussing your strengths, be prepared to address your academic performance directly and frame it in a way that supports your overall narrative of capability and potential.

Don’t let grades hold you back—read about overcoming academic setbacks as an attorney to build confidence.

 

10. Close the Interview Strong

Ending on a high note leaves a lasting impression. Reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and ask thoughtful questions about the firm’s culture, team dynamics, or growth opportunities. For example, you could ask: “What qualities do you think contribute most to success in this role?” or “How does the firm support professional development?” These questions show genuine interest and a strategic mindset. Complement this mindset guidance with our Interview Preparation Techniques article, which focuses on actionable preparation strategies.
 

• For even more practical insights, check out Harrison Barnes’ Winning the Interview: Insider Tips from BCG Attorney Search, which expands on strategies to impress interviewers from start to finish.

 

Conclusion

By following these strategies, attorneys can make a strong impression during interviews and position themselves as valuable candidates. Whether you’re a recent graduate or a seasoned attorney, preparation, enthusiasm, and a focus on long-term goals will help you stand out to prospective employers. Let your unique experiences and dedication shine through—and remember, every interview is an opportunity to advance your career. Harrison Barnes often stresses that consistent exposure to interviews accelerates learning — a point expanded in the ‘Definitive Guide to Why Attorneys Should Accept Every Law Firm Interview,’ where persistence translates to mastery.

For further guidance or personalized support, reach out to Harrison Barnes and the team at BCG Attorney Search.

This guidance comes from the recruiter’s perspective—learn why BCG Attorney Search is the premier firm for law firm placements.

---

 

---

About Harrison Barnes

No legal recruiter in the United States has placed more attorneys at top law firms across every practice area than Harrison Barnes. His unmatched expertise, industry connections, and proven placement strategies have made him the most influential legal career advisor for attorneys seeking success in Big Law, elite boutiques, mid-sized firms, small firms, firms in the largest and smallest markets, and in over 350 separate practice areas.

A Reach Unlike Any Other Legal Recruiter

Most legal recruiters focus only on placing attorneys in large markets or specific practice areas, but Harrison places attorneys at all levels, in all practice areas, and in all locations-from the most prestigious firms in New York, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C., to small and mid-sized firms in rural markets. Every week, he successfully places attorneys not only in high-demand practice areas like corporate and litigation but also in niche and less commonly recruited areas such as:

• Immigration Law
• Workers Compensation
• Insurance
• Family Law
• Trust and Estate
• Municipal law
• And many more...

This breadth of placements is unheard of in the legal recruiting industry and is a testament to his extraordinary ability to connect attorneys with the right firms, regardless of market size or practice area.

Proven Success at All Levels

With over 25 years of experience, Harrison has successfully placed attorneys at over 1,000 law firms, including:

• Top Am Law 100 firms such including Sullivan and Cromwell, and almost every AmLaw 100 and AmLaw 200 law firm.
• Elite boutique firms with specialized practices
• Mid-sized firms looking to expand their practice areas
• Growing firms in small and rural markets

He has also placed hundreds of law firm partners and has worked on firm and practice area mergers, helping law firms strategically grow their teams.

Unmatched Commitment to Attorney Success - The Story of BCG Attorney Search

Harrison Barnes is not just the most effective legal recruiter in the country, he is also the founder of BCG Attorney Search, a recruiting powerhouse that has helped thousands of attorneys transform their careers. His vision for BCG goes beyond just job placement; it is built on a mission to provide attorneys with opportunities they would never have access to otherwise. Unlike traditional recruiting firms, BCG Attorney Search operates as a career partner, not just a placement service. The firm's unparalleled resources, including a team of over 150 employees, enable it to offer customized job searches, direct outreach to firms, and market intelligence that no other legal recruiting service provides. Attorneys working with Harrison and BCG gain access to hidden opportunities, real-time insights on firm hiring trends, and guidance from a team that truly understands the legal market. You can read more about how BCG Attorney Search revolutionizes legal recruiting here: The Story of BCG Attorney Search and What We Do for You.

The Most Trusted Career Advisor for Attorneys

Harrison's legal career insights are the most widely followed in the profession.

• His articles on BCG Search alone are read by over 150,000 attorneys per month, making his guidance the most sought-after in the legal field. Read his latest insights here.
• He has conducted hundreds of hours of career development webinars, available here: Harrison Barnes Webinar Replays.
• His placement success is unmatched-see examples here: Harrison Barnes' Attorney Placements.
• He has created numerous comprehensive career development courses, including BigLaw Breakthrough, designed to help attorneys land positions at elite law firms.

Submit Your Resume to Work with Harrison Barnes

If you are serious about advancing your legal career and want access to the most sought-after law firm opportunities, Harrison Barnes is the most powerful recruiter to have on your side.

Submit your resume today to start working with him: Submit Resume Here

With an unmatched track record of success, a vast team of over 150 dedicated employees, and a reach into every market and practice area, Harrison Barnes is the recruiter who makes career transformations happen and has the talent and resources behind him to make this happen.

A Relentless Commitment to Attorney Success

Unlike most recruiters who work with only a narrow subset of attorneys, Harrison Barnes works with lawyers at all stages of their careers, from junior associates to senior partners, in every practice area imaginable. His placements are not limited to only those with "elite" credentials-he has helped thousands of attorneys, including those who thought it was impossible to move firms, find their next great opportunity.

Harrison's work is backed by a team of over 150 professionals who work around the clock to uncover hidden job opportunities at law firms across the country. His team:

• Finds and creates job openings that aren't publicly listed, giving attorneys access to exclusive opportunities.
• Works closely with candidates to ensure their resumes and applications stand out.
• Provides ongoing guidance and career coaching to help attorneys navigate interviews, negotiations, and transitions successfully.

This level of dedicated support is unmatched in the legal recruiting industry.

A Legal Recruiter Who Changes Lives

Harrison believes that every attorney-no matter their background, law school, or previous experience-has the potential to find success in the right law firm environment. Many attorneys come to him feeling stuck in their careers, underpaid, or unsure of their next steps. Through his unique ability to identify the right opportunities, he helps attorneys transform their careers in ways they never thought possible.

He has worked with:

• Attorneys making below-market salaries who went on to double or triple their earnings at new firms.
• Senior attorneys who believed they were "too experienced" to make a move and found better roles with firms eager for their expertise.
• Attorneys in small or remote markets who assumed they had no options-only to be placed at strong firms they never knew existed.
• Partners looking for a better platform or more autonomy who successfully transitioned to firms where they could grow their practice.

For attorneys who think their options are limited, Harrison Barnes has proven time and time again that opportunities exist-often in places they never expected.

Submit Your Resume Today - Start Your Career Transformation

If you want to explore new career opportunities, Harrison Barnes and BCG Attorney Search are your best resources. Whether you are looking for a BigLaw position, a boutique firm, or a move to a better work environment, Harrison's expertise will help you take control of your future.

Submit Your Resume Here to get started with Harrison Barnes today.

Harrison's reach, experience, and proven results make him the best legal recruiter in the industry. Don't settle for an average recruiter-work with the one who has changed the careers of thousands of attorneys and can do the same for you.

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.