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Associate interviews – what to remember

Interviews at this level can be very different to any you’ve had before. But whatever level you’re at, it’s important to be fully prepared to improve your chances of success. Here are a few ways you can do just that.

Remember the basics

No matter how many interviews you’ve had over your career, it’s always worth making sure you get the basics right (after all, it might be some time since you last went through the process). To brush up on the right way to approach any legal interview, click here.

Knowledge is power

Knowing as much as possible about the job you’re going for puts you in the driving seat – especially at this level. So talk to your consultant about any specifics the interviewer might be looking for, such as highly technical knowledge, supervisory experience or a strong business focus – or even the right type of character where there are succession issues. Researching the role thoroughly means you’ll be able to prepare for competency-based questions and examples that might come up, too.

Think ahead

Law firms recruiting at this level are often looking for their future Partners. So it’s important to demonstrate your commercial attitude and ability to bring in work, as well as a strong professional network and relationships (it’s important to show this as early in your career as possible). Think about any business that might transfer with you. This needs detailing in your CV and discussing at interview – talk to your consultant about how to present it. Depending on your level and the role, it may even be worth putting together a business plan – you’ll find relevant information and details of how to put one together here.

Make it count

However many tips you take on board, nothing is as important as striking up a rapport with the interviewer. Show your enthusiasm, ambition and drive, and use the interview to ask intelligent questions of your own – although do it as they arise throughout the interview, rather than turning it into a question and answer session.