So I’m about to go on a round of job interviews for law firms. I’ve (hopefully, still waiting for my grades) finished bar school and must now do my apprenticeship.
I plan to phone law firms and ask them about themselves. What kinds of questions could I ask before the interview to determine how different they are from each other? What questions would allow me to know which firms are a good fit or not? What questions should I ask during the interview?
I already a few questions to ask and not ask. I know I should ask which kind of law they practice and what they most enjoy about the firm. I also know that asking what they would change in the firm will be met with non answers. Discussing pay and vacations during the first interview is also not happening.
I’d rephrase your questions to “What is the most rewarding aspect of working with XYZ” and “What is the most challenging aspect” rather than “what do you like most/least.” For some reason, my phrasing seems to draw out more honest answers (even though they’re really the same questions).
I’ll often ask why a position is open or what the associate turnover is like (to find out if it’s a churn-n-burn shop).
“What personality traits help someone be successful at XYZ” has been eye opening at times as has “are there any personality traits that would prevent someone from being successful at XYZ and what are they?”
Some strategy questions are always good, such as do they have growth goals (what are they and how did they determine them), what areas are they targetting or view as opportunities, how do they see the firm positioning itself for the future, etc.
If you think it would be well received, you could just ask them flat out what they think differentiates them and their work environment from the competition.
And, of course, do research on the firms and ask about what you learn from it. For example, if they just landed a new corporate account, you can ask how they positioned themselves to that new client and what they bring to the table that the competition didn’t.
I always hesitate to brag in iterviews because it’s not what I usually do and I figure it will not be well received. But I guess that’s part of an interview.
How can I showcase what I have to offer yet not come off arrogant?