21 Major Job Interview Mistakes to Avoid at All Costs

Description

In this webinar, Harrison delves into critical insights that could reshape your approach to job interviews. As a seasoned professional, Harrison shares invaluable strategies to navigate the evolving legal employment landscape. Opening with a promise of exclusive content, Harrison highlights the unprecedented challenges legal job seekers face today.

The webinar addresses a seismic shift in hiring trends observed at BCG and other legal employment platforms. Harrison sheds light on the increasing competitiveness in the legal job market. He identifies a surge in interview mistakes, drawing from his extensive experience working with thousands of attorneys.

Harrison focuses on a pervasive error—speaking negatively about current or former employers. He underscores the detrimental impact such comments can have on an interview, portraying the interviewee as disgruntled and disloyal. Instead, Harrison provides a roadmap for positively articulating reasons for job transitions, emphasizing the importance of loyalty and tact in these discussions.

Furthermore, the webinar emphasizes the importance of presenting every interview as a strategic move in one's career. Harrison highlights how successful candidates consistently position themselves as individuals seeking growth, whether transitioning to larger firms for broader exposure or smaller ones for increased responsibility.

Concluding with caution against prematurely discussing salary expectations, Harrison stresses the significance of building rapport before broaching financial matters. Attendees gain actionable insights into avoiding common pitfalls, making this webinar an essential resource for legal professionals navigating the competitive job market.

Transcript:

Okay, let's get started. This is an exciting topic, and it's something I've never presented on before. It's new content, and I'll begin by going over the presentation. Afterward, we'll open up for questions. Since it's a live webinar, feel free to ask anything related to your career or the webinar content.

Over the years, I've noticed a trend at BCG that's worsening. In the past, 50% of law firm interviews resulted in job offers. Recently, with platforms like Law Crossing, job competition has increased. It could be due to more competitive legal employers or an increase in interview mistakes.

Today, I'll discuss these mistakes. This content is created specifically for this webinar. People still succeed in job interviews, securing every position they apply for. Conversely, some consistently struggle. Today, I'll share insights on what successful candidates do differently.

Firstly, avoid negative comments about your current or former employer. It makes you appear bitter and may raise concerns about your ability to fit into a new work environment. Loyalty is crucial, and negativity can reflect poorly on your character.

There are constructive ways to discuss reasons for leaving. You might seek a more team-oriented environment, a shorter commute, increased responsibility, or a desire to work with a specific firm. Emphasize positive aspects to avoid sounding disloyal.

Salary discussions should be handled carefully. It's negotiable, but bringing it up prematurely can hurt your chances. Focus on securing the job first, and salary negotiations can follow. Remember, portraying upward mobility is key during interviews.

Avoid asking questions that make you seem problematic or less committed. Inquiring about overtime, partnership timelines, remote work, or vacation policies early on can raise red flags. Employers want candidates committed to the job, not those focused on perks.

Lastly, don't overshare accomplishments on your resume or during interviews. Highlight relevant achievements, but avoid creating a laundry list. Quality over quantity is essential. Focus on showcasing skills that align with the job requirements.

Stay positive, emphasize upward mobility, delay salary discussions, and ask thoughtful questions. These strategies will help you stand out in interviews and increase your chances of securing the job. Thank you for joining today's webinar, and I look forward to addressing your questions.

In the realm of employment law, individuals often feel compelled to list every detail, perhaps assuming it's crucial, whether they're a patent attorney or otherwise. However, the key is to redirect the interview focus toward the candidate and their interest in the job. Interviewers assess if the candidate is genuinely interested, compatible, and values the role's significance.

Expressing genuine interest is vital. Demonstrating enthusiasm makes the employer feel valued and leads to positive impressions. Successful individuals, like Bill Clinton and Henry Kissinger, excel at conveying interest in others. This principle applies to job interviews and is essential for making a favorable impression on potential employers.

Avoid appearing overly impressed with oneself during interviews. Instead, focus on understanding the job's needs, expressing genuine interest, and highlighting ways to contribute to the organization's success. Successful interviewees often adopt a servant mindset, showcasing how they can benefit the employer and contribute positively.

Reflecting on personal experiences, the best interviews involved candidates who demonstrated passion for the job. Whether hiring for a nanny or an HR position, those who genuinely embraced the role's requirements and outlined how they could contribute stood out.

In contrast, portraying oneself as more important than the job or employer can be detrimental. The goal is to impress the employer, emphasizing how you can add value and support the organization's success. Avoid creating an impression that the employer needs to impress you.

Hiring decisions often hinge on impressions and personal connections. The most successful people, regardless of their achievements, prioritize humility and avoid drawing attention to themselves. Humble individuals make lasting impressions, fostering positive relationships and career opportunities.

Avoid negative traits during interviews, such as defensiveness or anger. Maintain composure, even when confronted with challenging questions or criticisms. Anger and defensiveness can hinder opportunities and create negative perceptions.

Excessive talking in interviews can be counterproductive. Listening is a valuable skill, and successful individuals often prioritize understanding over speaking. Loose lips can lead to revealing too much, potentially providing reasons for employers not to hire you.

Disclosing personal challenges, such as overcoming substance abuse or incarceration, should be approached with caution. While overcoming obstacles is commendable, such disclosures may inadvertently create biases. Focus on presenting your qualifications and skills without delving into personal struggles.

Avoid discussing religion, politics, or controversial topics during interviews. While personal beliefs are important, sharing them may lead to unintended consequences. Keep the conversation centered on your qualifications and suitability for the job.

Successful interviews revolve around genuine interest, humility, and a focus on how you can contribute to the employer's success. Avoid pitfalls such as excessive self-promotion, negative emotions, and oversharing personal information. Make the interview about the employer and the job, emphasizing your enthusiasm and value proposition.

In the world of job interviews, it's crucial to tread carefully, considering diverse perspectives and avoiding sensitive topics. Take the case of a woman whose husband resides in Thailand with multiple girlfriends. While it might be a juicy story, discussing such matters, especially in a professional setting, is ill-advised. Privacy should be respected, and one should refrain from divulging personal experiences that may be off-putting.

Similarly, discussing reasons for leaving a job should be approached with caution. Rather than detailing a catastrophic error or personal conflicts, it's wise to provide vague yet truthful explanations, steering clear of anything that could cast you in a negative light. Employers are more interested in your positive attributes and skills.

Talking about personal wealth or poverty can create unintended tension. Acknowledging diverse backgrounds is essential, as people may have different journeys that led them to their current situations. A balance must be struck to avoid sounding boastful or dismissive of others' experiences.

Sharing details about diseases, recoveries, or past struggles should be done sparingly. Some may empathize, but others could use this information against you. It's essential to gauge the appropriateness of sharing such personal stories based on the company culture and the interviewer's demeanor.

In the realm of invisible disabilities, discretion is key. While acknowledging these challenges is important for fostering understanding, it's equally vital to gauge the company's attitude towards such matters. Not all organizations may be as inclusive, so discretion is advised.

Discussing violent crimes, recent tragedies, or sexual orientation should be approached with utmost sensitivity. Striking a balance between openness and professionalism is crucial, considering the potential impact on the interviewer's perception.

Political and social issues, though relevant, can be polarizing. It's advisable to exercise caution when expressing personal views on controversial topics, ensuring that your stance aligns with the company culture. Remaining neutral during interviews can help avoid unnecessary conflicts.

Confidence is key in interviews, but long-winded responses can be counterproductive. Striking a balance between providing sufficient detail and avoiding unnecessary elaboration is crucial. Keeping responses concise and focused demonstrates respect for the interviewer's time.

Understanding the company's core business is non-negotiable. Failing to do so can convey a lack of genuine interest. Thorough research, including talking to current or former employees, can provide valuable insights, allowing you to tailor your responses and showcase your alignment with the company's values.

Navigating interviews requires finesse, discretion, and a deep understanding of the company and its culture. By avoiding pitfalls such as oversharing, controversial topics, or lengthy responses, you can present yourself as a thoughtful, professional candidate with a genuine interest in the organization.

Successfully generating business and excelling in interviews requires strategic preparation and a keen understanding of the dynamics involved. The most accomplished individuals in this realm not only secure substantial business but also master the art of presenting themselves as indispensable assets to prospective employers.

To achieve this, candidates must approach interviews with a meticulous understanding of the target company. Prior to engaging with potential employers, it is imperative to thoroughly research and comprehend the intricacies of the business, demonstrating a depth of knowledge that aligns with their goals and challenges. This level of preparation sets the stage for a successful interaction, positioning the candidate as someone with not just skills but a genuine understanding of the company's needs.

A critical aspect of interview mastery is treating the interviewer as a valuable client. The most adept candidates convey a sense of understanding and appreciation, aligning their experiences with the specific needs of the company. This approach fosters a connection that transcends a mere professional exchange, making the interviewer feel valued and appreciated.

Avoiding common pitfalls is equally vital in securing success during interviews. One such mistake is discussing prior rejections, which can create an unfavorable impression. Demonstrating confidence and the ability to add value are paramount. Candidates should approach interviews as an opportunity to showcase their capabilities and prove why they are the ideal fit.

Crafting thoughtful questions is a powerful tool in the interviewee's arsenal. This not only exhibits genuine interest but also positions the candidate as someone committed to understanding the intricacies of the role and the company's vision. It is a chance to engage with the interviewer and showcase enthusiasm for the potential collaboration.

Furthermore, discretion plays a pivotal role in interviews. Revealing where else one is interviewing can inadvertently raise questions about commitment or preference. Maintaining a strategic approach to discussing job searches ensures a positive impression.

Organizational skills extend beyond interview etiquette. Carrying a well-prepared folder with references and resumes is a tangible demonstration of professionalism. This not only streamlines the process but also underscores the candidate's readiness and commitment.

Cell phone etiquette is a subtle yet critical aspect of interview success. Turning off and stowing away the device during interviews is a non-negotiable practice. It eliminates distractions and contributes to an environment of undivided attention, reinforcing the seriousness and professionalism of the candidate.

Navigating the intricate landscape of interviews requires a multi-faceted approach. The amalgamation of thorough research, strategic presentation, avoidance of common pitfalls, thoughtful questioning, and impeccable etiquette positions a candidate not just as a potential employee but as a valuable collaborator. By mastering these elements, candidates significantly enhance their chances of success in interviews, ultimately securing coveted opportunities in their professional journey.

QUESTIONS:

All right, let's get back to this. Let me pull up a Word document to go through the questions. It looks like there are many questions today, which is good. I always love answering these questions. If you think your question isn't good, it probably is, or you're embarrassed to ask it.

About questions, let me show the screen. We're doing questions, and there are many good questions this week. If you're signed into Zoom, rest assured your name won't be shown; everything is confidential. You can ask anything about your career. Often, the seemingly unimportant or embarrassing questions are the best.

So, you may have questions, whether you've been practicing for 30 years or just started. Law students, new attorneys without jobs—ask anything. Your questions benefit everyone here or those viewing the answers later. Ask good questions, and I'll go through them randomly, discussing each.

This week's topic is unique, and I hope everyone's learning a lot. Okay, let's address a question. If an attorney loses their job due to a supervisor with a grudge, how can they present themselves in interviews? Particularly for younger, mid-level attorneys?

Understand this: most attorneys lose jobs at some point. Regardless of your prestige or experience, it happens. If you follow advice on law firms and job retention, you'll increase your success. Now, let's address the specific situation. When asked, don't dwell on negatives; focus on lack of work, firm problems, or practice area issues. Frame it positively or say it wasn't a good fit. If job-seeking, keep applying; firms won't dwell if they need you. Choose explanations carefully, portraying a positive image.

Next question: when appearing defensive, what subtle signs or body language should interviewers be aware of? Candidates, be self-aware and avoid seeming defensive. Defensive reactions—anger, frowning—create issues. Expect inappropriate questions; rehearse positive answers. Attorneys turn negatives into positives; it's a fundamental skill. Master it.

Some candidates feel the need to share extensive personal hardships during interviews. Striking a balance is crucial. Portray yourself positively, avoiding oversharing. Understand how law firms present their attorneys. Bios rarely highlight personal struggles. Consider this when discussing challenges during interviews. Be cautious about what you reveal.

Working with recruiters who reach out through LinkedIn—what are the consequences? Generally, recruiters reaching out may be establishing themselves. Experienced recruiters don't often resort to this. Newer recruiters may lack refined strategies. Consider their expertise; evaluate if it aligns with your goals. Experienced recruiters provide comprehensive services; choose wisely.

Remember, presenting yourself positively and handling questions skillfully is crucial. Your success lies in how you frame your experiences. Keep learning and adapting to ensure a successful legal career.

You don't look that way, and that's a problem. I think this is a good question because I'm trying to give you the best answer and share some experiences. I've interviewed strong people to work with me before—people so good they wanted to be my partner and could achieve that. Those individuals established a dialogue with me right away. I was comfortable taking calls from them. Connecting personally with someone or the recruiting personnel is crucial. If you appear desperate, it will hurt you. Building a connection where you seem to have options is important.

Some of the most powerful people I've interviewed could establish a dialogue, call me on the phone, and make it work. Most people can't, but if you can, it's amazing. Talented associates can also connect with a law firm, talking about the value they provide and establishing a dialogue.

Regarding job searches during slow periods in a firm, it's okay to mention it in an interview. However, during most recessions or slowdowns, the best people are retained. Young associates without much training may be let go. It's essential to focus on maintaining a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and showcasing your value to stay valuable to the firm.

November and December are excellent months to look for a job. Fewer people apply during this time, making your resume stand out. Fridays, especially afternoons, are also ideal for interviews. Asking about compensation, benefits, or work-life balance during an interview is a mistake. Save those questions for after receiving an offer.

Explaining reasons for leaving a previous job without sounding negative requires framing it positively. Highlight what you liked about the firm, the experience gained, and the lessons learned. If you lost a position, emphasize the challenges faced in an unstable branch office rather than focusing on being let go.

Asking about work-life balance or remote work options during an interview can be interpreted negatively. Avoid these questions until after receiving an offer. Most employers prefer candidates showing dedication and a willingness to work hard rather than seeking flexible arrangements upfront.

When asked about challenges faced with previous employers, frame them as opportunities for growth and increased responsibility. Showcase a desire to improve and contribute more to the job rather than focusing on negative aspects.

So, let's discuss recommended resources or templates for reaching out to law firms without openings. What's the most effective approach? Well, it's a great question, and the answer could potentially reshape your career. In the past, around 85% of successful candidates, and though this stat might have changed, it's still significant, secured positions with firms that had no openings at the time.

Now, I need to emphasize that these stats are specific to BCG, and certain firms regularly interview candidates in various practice areas, irrespective of immediate openings. We leverage historical data and algorithms to identify these firms. Approximately 75% of candidates we suggest to firms for approval sometimes get uneasy, fearing spam. However, sending applications to firms without formal openings is a strategic move.

Why? Because if you apply to a firm without openings, you're often the sole applicant. No competition. This lack of competition makes it easier for the firm to hire you. Large, well-established firms can be rigid, but smaller ones, especially without current openings, appreciate proactive applicants who genuinely express interest.

This strategy particularly shines in specialized fields within small to midsize firms. Firms without advertised positions appreciate your initiative, increasing your chances of landing the job. In contrast, applying to a posted position in a large firm could mean competing with hundreds of applicants, making it a tougher road.

So, in essence, applying to firms without openings presents a unique advantage – no competition and a proactive display of interest. This tactic may not be foolproof, but it significantly boosts your chances.

Now, let's shift gears and discuss your second question about handling queries on preferred management styles and compatible leadership types during interviews. The optimal response for an associate is to view their role as that of a soldier, with whomever they're working for acting as their general. The emphasis is on following orders and adapting to different leadership styles. It communicates flexibility and a willingness to align with the organization's culture.

Recall the stories of long-tenured recruiters in different work environments. Successful individuals adapt, and your ability to be a versatile professional who can work well under various management styles is a valuable trait.

If you're in a small market and concerned about potential repercussions after losing your position, my advice is straightforward: apply everywhere. Worrying about being blackballed is counterproductive. Remember, people's opinions are diverse, and assuming everyone talks to each other is an exaggeration. Don't limit your options based on unfounded fears; cast a wide net and focus on showcasing your skills and adaptability.

It is crucial to acknowledge that attorneys, both in large law firms and smaller markets, generally adhere to a practice of not speaking negatively about former colleagues. This practice is more pronounced in prestigious and larger firms. A positive departure from a firm reflects well on the firm's quality.

An illustrative story emphasizes the discretion exercised by attorneys when discussing former colleagues who faced challenges. Attorneys tend to be cautious when sharing negative information about others who have worked with them, as it can reflect poorly on the speaker.

Additionally, the importance of not dwelling on negative experiences or allowing a job loss to deter future success is highlighted. Focusing on personal growth, learning from experiences, and applying to various opportunities is encouraged. In the legal profession, the emphasis is on supporting fellow attorneys and maintaining a positive outlook.

A specific scenario is discussed wherein an attorney faced challenges in previous positions, including being laid off without severance and experiencing workplace conflicts. The advice is to present the situation in the best light possible during a job search, emphasizing the desire to contribute positively to a new firm.

Furthermore, the narrative underscores the significance of applying to firms without advertised openings. The strategy is to target firms that may have unmet needs, presenting an opportunity for the applicant to offer value. Applying to a broad range of firms, even those without current job listings, is recommended to maximize potential opportunities.

In conclusion, the key takeaway is to focus on positive aspects, emphasize personal growth, and apply to firms without restricting the search to advertised positions. This approach increases the chances of finding the right opportunity and advancing in the legal profession.

If you need time off to be a caregiver for parents, how do you assure a potential employer? You can explain that both parents have passed away, and you no longer have family responsibilities. If asked about not returning to the same firm, express a desire to explore new opportunities.

It's acceptable to share with employers that you were the primary caregiver for your ailing parents. Emphasize the importance of your job and your dedication to it, despite having lost your family. This can be a positive aspect in your professional journey.

Regarding job loss in February but paid through March, list on your resume that you worked until March. Actively apply to firms, even those without current openings, to increase your chances of securing a new position quickly. Negotiate with your previous employer to keep your online presence active, which is crucial for job hunting.

Cold emailing firms about job opportunities is recommended. Consider sending physical letters along with your resume to stand out. Utilize all available channels, including fax, to grab employers' attention.

Branch offices can be risky for careers due to various factors. Decisions often come from the main office, making it challenging to advance. Recruited partners may bring unhappiness from previous firms, leading to cultural clashes and potential business exaggerations.

If struggling to secure interviews after three months of job hunting, cast a wide net. Apply to every possible location, even if there are no current openings. Leverage online searches to identify firms in your preferred markets. Applying aggressively will improve your chances of finding a new position.

Congratulations to those who stayed throughout the webinar. The information shared can significantly impact your career. Listening to experienced individuals and learning from various sources is crucial for professional growth. The main webinar will be available on BCG within a week or two for further reference. Thank you for participating and best of luck in your career endeavors.