Interview Preparation Techniques

Introduction

This guide is designed to help you excel in your interviews with law firms. The ultimate goal is to progress to the next stage of the interview process and ultimately receive an offer. Remember, if a firm has decided to interview you, they are interested in hiring you. Below, we've outlined key strategies for both Zoom and in-person interviews, along with essential questions and preparation tips to make a strong impression.

Zoom Interviews: The Essentials

• Camera Positioning: Ensure your camera is directly facing you; this is crucial for making a personal connection.
• Dress Code: Wear business attire to convey professionalism, even in a virtual setting.
• Background: Have a neutral background (a solid color is best) and try not to show your home or workspace.

In-Person Interviews: Making an Impression

• Appearance: Dress sharply and look your best.
• Engagement: Maintain eye contact and have a printed copy of your resume on hand.

Understanding Your Interviewers

• Research: Before the interview, read the bios of the attorneys you'll be meeting. Understand their area of practice and current projects.
• Common Ground: Identify and discuss any similarities in your work and theirs to establish rapport.

Discussing Your Career Move

• Why Are You Looking?: Be prepared to discuss why you're seeking a new opportunity.
• Salary Expectations: A diplomatic response would be, "I expect to be compensated similarly to my peers within your firm or similar firms."
• Remote Work: Express flexibility, indicating you're willing to adapt to the firm's needs, whether remote or in-person.

The Five Key Questions Interviewers Have

1. Can You Do the Job?
   • Understand what the firm is looking for and articulate how your skills and experience align with their needs. If there's something you're not familiar with, express your willingness and ability to learn.
2. Will You Commit to the Job?
   • Convey stability and long-term interest in the position. Share any relevant experiences that demonstrate your loyalty and dedication to past roles.
3. Con You Be Managed?
   • Acknowledge the expectations of billable hours and your readiness to meet them, showing you're manageable and committed.
4. Do You Want The Job?
   • Demonstrate enthusiasm for the role and the firm. Explain why you believe it's a good fit for your career goals.
5. Do We Like You??
   • Build a connection with the interviewers. Being personable and showing vulnerability can make you more relatable and likable.

Additional Questions to Consider in an Interview

When interviewing, your questions should always reflect how you can contribute value to the firm—never what the firm can do for you. Avoid asking about vacation, health insurance, remote work, compensation, or any benefits. These issues can be addressed later in the process if appropriate.

Instead, focus your questions on how you can meet the needs of the attorneys and the firm. Your questions should communicate initiative, humility, and a service-oriented mindset.

Smart Questions to Ask:

1. Performance Expectations “What would success in this position look like in the first 30, 60, and 90 days? What would I need to do to become one of your top hires?”
2. Immediate Contribution “What is the most pressing need that I could help you with right now? Is there anything that is currently not getting done that I could take ownership of?”
3. Firm Culture & Alignment “What aspects of working at this firm do you enjoy the most? From what you’ve heard about my background, do you see areas where my past experiences or aspirations align with those same qualities?”
4. Closing with Enthusiasm When you’ve asked your questions and there is a natural pause, it is often powerful to close with a short statement of commitment, such as: “I just want you to know that this is the sort of position I am truly looking for. I would very much appreciate the opportunity to work here, and I promise I will work hard to give you what you need and contribute as much value as possible.”

Weak Questions to Avoid — and Better Alternatives

Firms are evaluating whether you will put their clients first and add value to the team. If your questions suggest you are more focused on perks or convenience than on performance and contribution, you risk sending the wrong signal.

Here’s how to turn weak questions into strong ones:

Weak Question (Avoid)

• “What is the vacation policy?”
• “How much will I be paid as an associate?”
• “Does the firm cover health insurance or gym memberships?”
• “Can I work from home?”
• “How late do associates usually have to stay?”
• “Is weekend work required?”
• “When would I be considered for partnership?”
• “Can I bring in my own clients right away?”
• “Do you reimburse commuting costs?”

Better Alternative (Ask Instead)

• “What’s the typical workload like for someone in this role, and how can I best manage my time to exceed expectations?”
• “What qualities do your top associates share that have helped them advance quickly here?”
• “What kinds of professional development or training opportunities are available to help associates add more value to clients?”
• “How can I best integrate into the team’s workflow so I’m available and responsive when needed?”
• “What do your most successful associates do to manage demanding schedules while keeping client service strong?”
• “What can I do to be the kind of associate you rely on when urgent matters arise?”
• “What do partners here typically look for in associates who want to take on more responsibility over time?”
• “How do associates typically get opportunities to contribute to business development efforts as they grow?”
• “What is the best way for me to be present and accessible so I can contribute fully to the team?”

When It Is Appropriate to Ask About Salary, Benefits, and Logistics

• After an Offer Is Made: Once the firm has decided they want you, you are in a position to clarify details about compensation, benefits, vacation, remote work, and other logistical matters. At that stage, asking is expected and professional.
• If the Firm Brings It Up First: If an interviewer directly raises compensation, benefits, or logistics, it is appropriate to respond, but you should keep your answers professional and concise.
• Through Your Recruiter: If you are working with BCG Attorney Search, your recruiter can handle many of these conversations on your behalf—so you remain focused on showing enthusiasm for the work and the opportunity.

Golden Rule: Until you have an offer in hand, every question you ask should emphasize what you can do for the firm, not what the firm can do for you.

Conclusion

Interview success hinges on preparation, understanding the firm and the interviewers, and effectively communicating your value and compatibility with the position. By following this guide, you'll be wellequipped to make a compelling case for why you're the right candidate for the job.