"7 Things to NEVER Do in an Interview!"

Interviews. A rite of passage for any ambitious lawyer looking to scale the career ladder. But as crucial as knowing what to do is understanding what not to do. In the legal world, where the tiniest misstep can seal your fate, a single faux pas during an interview can derail an otherwise promising career trajectory. Having guided countless lawyers through this crucible, I've compiled a list of heinous interview sins. Some may surprise you, others will raise eyebrows, but all are based on real, cringe-worthy scenarios I've witnessed.

1. "Let Me Just Take This Call..."

We live in an age of 24/7 connectivity, but interviews demand your undivided attention. You'd think this would be basic, right? Think again. I've witnessed senior attorneys fumbling to silence their ringing phones, only to take the call, believing their status gives them a free pass. Newsflash: It doesn’t.

"Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it." – Henry David Thoreau.

Ensure your phone is on silent and tucked away, signalling respect to your potential employers.

2. The Know-It-All Syndrome

Confidence is key, arrogance is fatal. There's a distinct line between showcasing your expertise and overriding the interviewer. Remember, they're there to evaluate your potential fit with the firm's culture. A ‘know-it-all’ attitude, no matter your accolades, can make you seem untrainable and difficult to work with.

3. Critiquing Your Current (or Past) Firm

Even if your current firm's dynamics are more Shakespearean tragedy than fairy tale, an interview is not your soapbox. Disparaging past employers or colleagues not only questions your loyalty but also your discretion – a cornerstone in the legal world. As Michelle Obama wisely said,

"When they go low, we go high."

Always focus on what you've learned and how you've grown.

4. “What Do You Do Here, Exactly?”

Not doing your homework is, in essence, a slap in the face of your prospective employer. While you needn't know the firm's entire history, a basic understanding of its core areas of practice, major cases, and recent news is essential.

5. Flaunting Your Connections

Having a well-connected network is advantageous, but namedropping for the sake of impressing the interviewer can backfire. Relationships should be nurtured, not used as currency. Establish your worth through your merit, not who you know.

6. Over- or Under-Dressing

In the legal sphere, presentation matters. Turning up in casual attire or overly flamboyant outfits screams unprofessionalism. On the flip side, a suit that looks like it's been in storage since the '80s isn't much better. Dress to impress, but ensure your outfit matches the firm's culture.

7. Neglecting The Power of Follow-Up

An interview doesn't end when you exit the room. The aftermath is just as critical. Failing to send a thank-you note or follow up after a week can portray disinterest or complacency. And trust me, firms notice.

Why All This Matters

In an increasingly competitive legal landscape, standing out is essential. But it’s equally vital to avoid the pitfalls that could put you on a firm’s blacklist. The art of the interview isn't merely about showcasing your legal prowess but demonstrating your adaptability, respect, and genuine interest in the firm.

If you're keen on mastering the intricacies of the legal interview process and propelling your career into the stratosphere, reach out. With years of experience under my belt, I've witnessed the good, the bad, and the outright shocking.

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Determined to carve a niche in the legal echelons? Let’s chat. Drop me a line at [email protected].

Your career deserves more than just another application. It deserves strategy.