Learning to make a great impression in an interview is one of the best things you can do for your career. You may bring experience, training and great references to the table, but as important as those are, they can’t save you if you don’t seem likeable, confident and professional in the interview.
Here are a few ways to set yourself apart from the other applicants.
Dress well. A nice suit is a great start, but don’t forget to pay attention to the details. Your shoes should be polished, suit nicely pressed. Add a little detail that makes you stand out just a bit, whether it’s a striking but tasteful blouse or tie, or a nice quality briefcase. This is a great way to appear conservative, but not forgettable.
Be friendly and confident. When you like yourself, other people like you, too. Make people feel good about meeting you. Start with a smile and a firm handshake and you’ll be on the right track.
Be professional. The interviewer is not your friend. Don’t be excessively jovial or casual. Don’t over share. Don’t say anything negative about your previous employer.
Be prompt. This should be obvious, but often isn’t. If you use public transportation, don’t choose a train or bus that cuts too close to your interview time. If you drive, plan your route and do a dry run if you can.
Be prepared. Do as much research as possible on the company. Prepare answers to common questions and anecdotes to back them up.
Show enthusiasm. Be honest with yourself. If this is not the right job, don’t waste your time or the interviewer’s. Pass on this opportunity and move onto the next one. Having trouble finding the right job? Call a recruiter who specializes in finding jobs for legal support specialists and discuss your ideal position with them. They can find unadvertised jobs, know the employers and can help you find a position that is the right fit.
Watch your body language. There are several ways that body language can go wrong. Slump and you’ll seem insecure, lean back and the interviewer may think you’re cocky. Fail to meet the interviewer’s eye and you look deceptive, hold his gaze too long and you’re creepy. Maintain a balance. Ask a friend for input or if you are working with a staffing company like Kent Legal, request an assessment of your professional body language.
Rely on an expert’s help. One of the best ways to improve your interview presence is with a great introduction. Kent Legal can help with that. We match you with employers who are looking for people just like you and tell them all the reasons that they want you on their team. When we send you to an interview, the interviewer will know who you are and what’s great about you, and they are prepared to like you.
Our legal support recruiters assist candidates by providing substantial information prior to an interview; such as providing articles and resources related to interviewing and career advancement. We also share robust information regarding the nature of the practice, background information and research resources on both the legal firm and lawyers. Our long and rich relationships build with clients helps us to provide intimate knowledge of the firm’s culture, as well as the expectations that the lawyer and firm have for the legal support staff.
For more advice on job-winning interview techniques, contact the experts at Kent Legal. We can help you find (and prepare for!) opportunities in law firms and legal departments throughout the greater Toronto area. Contact us today to get started.