11. Write a covering letter in the name of a law graduate.

Cathleen is applying for a trainee position at Barnes & Swindle Solicitors. She has seen their ad in a newspaper. She will probably start the letter as “Dear Sirs,” because there are at least two partners in the firm.

The Legal Job Interview

1. Read the text and do the activities after it. Successful job interview

The key to a successful job interview is preparation. The more prepared you are, the more relaxed and confident you will be during the interview. The suggestions below will help you in your preparation and get you on your way to a successful interview.

Research the employer. Know the practice areas of the firm and the background of its members.

Carefully analyze your skills and abilities and formulate your career goals. Once you have a clear picture of what you can offer an organization, you will be better able to express that at an interview.

If possible, review some of the typical questions employers ask and practise answering them in ways which highlight the appropriate skills/abilities.

Always back up statements about yourself with proof (i.e. don’t just say you are organized, demonstrate it with examples such as how you developed a more efficient client database at your last position, etc.)

With regard to areas of inquiry which may be uncomfortable or flaws, develop an answer with which you feel comfortable, so as to avoid being caught off guard or stumbling over the answer. Re-direct to some of your positive qualities (i.e. grades – did you do better in practical or theoretical courses; did you show improvement; do you have corresponding legal experience.)

Make sure you know well where the firm is located and how to get there. Include in your briefcase or portfolio, copies of your resume and documents, reference page and any other materials you may be discussing.

At the Interview

Be on time.

Be clean, neat, and professional – look and act like a lawyer, not a law student.

Deal with secretaries and associates with the same respect and professionalism you would with a senior partner. Your relationship with all members of the firm impacts the hiring decision. Remember the interview begins the minute you walk in the door.

Address the interviewer by name (i.e. Mr./Ms./Mrs. Jones); do not use first names unless invited to do so and even then be conservative.

Demonstrate a real interest in the employer.

Never try to answer with a simple yes or no; if a direct yes or no is required, answer and then elaborate, but be brief and to the point.

Control excessive, fidgety, nervous behavior.

Be honest when answering all questions.

Be prepared for multiple interviewers and day long interviews, especially with larger firms and corporations. Knowing something about each interviewer can arm you with new information for each interview.

Ask the interviewers about themselves, why they chose their job and what they would change if they could.