Navigating the legal interview process can feel daunting, but with the right preparation, you can confidently approach any interview. Following our recent LinkedIn Live event focused on interview tips, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we receive as legal recruiters. Whether you’re preparing for a telephone interview or strategising how to ask about hybrid working, this guide has you covered.
Asking Questions: Why the Interview Is Also Your Chance to Assess Suitability and Fit
A reminder first of all that any interview isn’t just about proving you’re the right candidate; it’s also your opportunity to determine if the firm aligns with your career aspirations and values. Think of it as a two-way process. While the interviewer is evaluating your skills and experience, you should also be assessing whether the firm’s culture, values, and work environment are a good fit for you.
How to Approach This:
1. Prepare thoughtful questions that highlight your interest in both the role and the wider organisation.
2. Ask about the firm’s approach to professional development, work-life balance, and its future vision.
Questions to Consider:
- “How does the firm support career progression for junior lawyers?”
- “What is the firm’s approach to flexible working?”
- Other ‘smart questions to ask’ in your legal interview can be found here
By asking insightful questions, you not only show initiative but also demonstrate that you’re thinking long-term about your fit within the organisation.
1. How Should I Prepare for a Telephone or Video Interview?
Telephone and video interviews have become staples in the hiring process, but they come with their own set of challenges. The key is to treat them as seriously as in-person interviews.
Top Preparation Tips:
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Test Your Tech: Check your internet connection, camera, microphone, and any necessary software well before the interview.
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Create a Distraction-Free Environment: Choose a quiet, well-lit space where you won’t be interrupted.
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Dress the Part: Even if it’s a video call, dressing smartly sets a professional tone and boosts your confidence.
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Practice Common Questions: Prepare for competency-based questions like “Tell me about a time you worked in a team” or “How do you handle pressure?”
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Maintain Eye Contact: Position your camera at eye level and look into it when speaking to create a natural connection with your interviewer.
The prevalence of virtual interviews remains high, with 81% of hiring managers continuing to utilise them even after the forced practice of COVID and lockdown. This trend underscores the importance of mastering remote interview techniques to succeed in today’s job market.
2. What Are the Common Pitfalls to Avoid During Legal Interviews?
Even the most experienced candidates can fall into common traps. Here’s what to watch out for:
Avoid rambling:
During interviews, it’s crucial to stay focused on the question at hand. Interviewers often have limited time and appreciate answers that are concise and to the point. While it’s important to provide enough context, try not to overelaborate. Practice summarising your responses in a clear, structured manner—think of it like telling a story with a beginning, middle, and end, but without unnecessary detail.
Keep a professional tone when discussing previous employers:
Even if your past experiences weren’t the best, it’s essential to maintain professionalism when speaking about previous employers or roles. Avoid negative language or overly critical remarks, as this could reflect poorly on your attitude. Instead, focus on what you learned from those experiences or how you’ve grown as a result. Remember, the goal is to showcase your resilience, adaptability, and ability to work constructively in challenging environments.
Asking questions shows your interest in the role and the firm’s culture:
Interviews are a two-way street. While you’re being evaluated, this is also your chance to evaluate the company and determine if it’s a good fit for you. Asking insightful questions not only demonstrates your enthusiasm for the role, but also your desire to understand the firm’s values, work culture, and expectations. Inquire about the team dynamics, growth opportunities, and how success is measured at the firm to show you’re genuinely interested in contributing to its future.
3. How Would You Ask About Team Dynamics or Firm Culture Without Sounding Negative?
Understanding a firm’s internal dynamics is crucial, but the way you ask matters. Approaching the question in this way will not only help you gather essential insights about the firm but also demonstrate your focus on finding a workplace that aligns with your values and career aspirations. Keep the tone positive, as it will show you are proactive about finding a good fit and are serious about contributing to the team’s success.
Other ways to frame the question include:
Focus on Collaboration and Teamwork:
When asking about team dynamics, it’s important to frame your questions around positive aspects like teamwork and collaboration. Instead of asking about potential issues, you can inquire about how teams work together, what makes their collaborations successful, and how the firm fosters a cooperative work environment. This approach shows that you’re interested in being part of a collaborative team and want to understand how that dynamic operates.
Highlight Firm Values and Cultural Fit:
Asking about the values that shape the firm’s culture demonstrates that you’re thinking about long-term alignment. Firms typically have a set of values that guide their decision-making and work environment. Framing your questions around these values shows you’re interested in whether your personal values align with the firm’s culture, which is essential for both personal and professional satisfaction.
Emphasise Support for Career Development:
Professional growth is a key consideration when looking for a role. By asking about career development opportunities, you’re indicating that you’re committed to growing within the firm and contributing over the long term. Firms that prioritise development often invest in training, mentorship, and career progression pathways, making this a good area to explore.
Inquire About Work-Life Balance:
Work-life balance is an important factor for many candidates. Asking about how the firm supports this balance demonstrates that you value flexibility and well-being in your professional life. It shows that you’re thinking about how you can contribute effectively while maintaining personal well-being, which is a concern for many candidates today.
Discuss Leadership Communication and Transparency:
Transparency and communication from leadership are critical to a positive work environment. Asking about how leadership communicates with staff shows that you value clear direction and the ability to engage with the management team. This will also give you insights into how decisions are made and how involved you can expect to be in the firm’s broader vision.
Show Interest in a Positive, Open Environment:
An open, communicative, and inclusive environment is vital for success in most workplaces. By expressing interest in understanding the firm’s approach to maintaining a positive and open environment, you’re showing that you care about being part of a culture where ideas are shared, and feedback is encouraged.
4. How Can I Ask About Hybrid or Remote Working?
Asking about flexible working arrangements can be tricky, especially if it’s not mentioned in the job description. The key is to be tactful, open-minded, and avoid making remote work seem like a dealbreaker.
Start by asking a broad question like, “How does the firm approach hybrid or flexible working?”—this invites insight into the company’s overall stance without sounding presumptive. Once you have a sense of their approach, follow up with, “Is remote working an option for this role, and how is it typically managed?” to understand the specifics.
Keep your tone neutral and focus on flexibility. Framing questions this way shows that you’re adaptable and interested in how the company operates, rather than prioritizing remote work as a must-have.
5. Is It Appropriate to Ask About Career Progression?
Absolutely—but timing and phrasing are key. Asking about career growth shows you’re thinking long-term and are invested in the firm’s success, but it’s important not to come across as focused solely on promotions.
Best Ways to Ask:
- “What does a typical career path look like for someone in this role?”
- “How does the firm support professional development and career progression?”
These types of questions reflect your commitment to both personal growth and contributing to the firm’s future.
Asking about hybrid or remote working policies is an important part of evaluating a firm’s work culture and ensuring that the role fits your needs. Frame your questions in a way that shows you’re flexible, open to different working structures, and interested in understanding how the firm manages these arrangements. This approach ensures you’re aligned with the firm’s expectations while presenting yourself as adaptable and professional.
6. How Can I Calm My Nerves?
Feeling nervous before an interview is completely normal, but managing those nerves is key to presenting yourself confidently.
Breathe and Reset:
Deep breathing is a simple but powerful tool to calm nerves. Before the interview, take a few slow, deep breaths to steady your mind. If nerves creep in during the interview, pause briefly and take another deep breath—it can help you refocus and think clearly.
Prepare, Then Prepare Again:
The more prepared you are, the more confident you’ll feel. Research the firm, review your CV, and rehearse answers to common questions. Mock interviews with a friend or your legal recruiter can also boost your confidence and ease nerves on the big day.
Stay Present:
It’s easy to get caught up worrying about how you’re doing, but focusing on the conversation keeps nerves in check. Listen carefully, take your time answering questions, and treat the interview as a two-way conversation—it’s about finding the right fit for both sides.
Use Positive Body Language:
Even if you’re nervous, your body language can project confidence. Sit up straight, maintain eye contact, smile when appropriate, and avoid fidgeting. Open, relaxed posture not only looks confident but can actually help you feel calmer.
Acknowledge the Nerves:
It’s okay to admit if you’re feeling a bit nervous. A simple comment like, “I’m a little nervous, but I’m really excited about this role,” can break the tension and humanise the moment. Most interviewers understand nerves are natural and will often help put you at ease.
By using these strategies, you can turn nerves into positive energy and show up as calm, focused, and confident. Remember, interviewers expect some nervousness—it’s how you manage it that makes the difference.
7. What’s the Best Way to Follow Up After an Interview?
After your interview, update your recruiter as soon as possible. Share how it went, what was discussed, and any concerns you have. In the legal sector, feedback often flows through recruiters first, so they can offer valuable insights, manage next steps, and reinforce your interest with the firm.
Share Key Takeaways:
Highlight what stood out—whether it’s the firm’s culture, caseload, or progression opportunities. If a specific practice area or client base excited you, let your recruiter know. This helps them position you as the right fit when speaking to the employer, which is crucial in competitive legal markets.
Trust Their Expertise:
Legal hiring processes can be complex, involving multiple stages, salary negotiations, and detailed contracts. Your recruiter knows the right timing for follow-ups and can handle communications on your behalf, ensuring you stay in the strongest position.
Why Using a Recruiter Gives You the Edge:
A reminder (of course!) about the many advantages that using a legal recruitment specialist gives you as a jobseeker:
Inside Knowledge: Recruiters often know about roles before they’re advertised and can offer insights into firm culture, team dynamics, and hiring priorities.
Stronger Communication: Law firms tend to be more responsive to recruiters, ensuring faster feedback and smoother follow-ups.
Expert Negotiation: Recruiters can negotiate salaries and benefits on your behalf, helping you secure the best package without risking the offer.
End-to-End Support: From interview prep to contract signing, a recruiter guides you through the entire process, boosting your confidence and chances of success.
Final Thoughts:
Preparation is the foundation of interview success. By approaching interviews as a two-way conversation and focusing on alignment between your values and the firm’s culture, you position yourself as a thoughtful, strategic candidate. Use these tips to navigate your next legal interview with confidence—and remember, it’s not just about getting the job, but finding the right fit for your long-term career goals.
Need more interview tips or want to explore new legal opportunities? Get in touch with our team today!
About Clayton Legal
Clayton Legal has been partnering with law firms across the country since 1999 and during that time has built up an enviable reputation for trust and reliability. We have made over 5,000 placements from partners to legal executives, solicitors to paralegals, and legal IT personnel to practice managers.
If you are looking for your next career move, we can help.
