UNIT 9

JOB INTERVIEWING TECHNIQUES

Why Think About Interviews? The following is a brief overview of some

of the key points to enhance interview skills and help you get jobs.

The key is persistence and trying to make sure you are prepared before you go on your interview.

Before the Interview

Take the time to research the firm or place with which you are interviewing. You should understand its basic mission and what services it provides. Arrive with a list of questions that demonstrate your knowledge of the firm. Prepare extra copies of your resume and writing samples that you can give to the interviewer. Remember that you may be meeting with a number of interviewers, so prepare accordingly.

How Should You Dress?

Always dress professionally. It is appropriate to overdress, but it is never acceptable to under dress.

During the Interview

Upon meeting the person who will be interviewing you, immediately offer a handshake and a smile. Read the mood of the interviewer. If the interviewer is very formal, you should also be formal. If the interviewer is more casual, it is acceptable to loosen up a bit. It is normal to be nervous - interviewers expect this, but try to avoid overt signs of discomfort like fidgeting or sweating. Maintain eye contact, but avoid staring.

Do I ask About Salary?

Never bring up salary or benefits, but always be prepared to discuss these issues if the interviewer mentions them.

After the Interview

Be patient. It can take weeks for companies to make hiring decisions.

Understand that employers may ask you back for a second, third or fourth interview before making an offer.

Goals of the Interview

Always remember that you need to accomplish two goals in an interview. You must convince the employer that you can do a better job than your competitors, and you need to convince the employer that you will create profits, not problems.

By using these and other interviewing tips in combination with your paralegal educations, you can find meaningful employment in the legal field.

Interview Questions

Some of the most popular questions asked by interviewers in the legal profession are summarized on these slides. Most questions are relevant to all types of legal firm when interviewing or recruiting paralegals.

Question # 1

Where do you see yourself in five years time?

Question # 2

Where do you see yourself in ten years time?

Question # 3

Tell me about yourself?

Question # 4

What are your strengths?

Question # 5

What are your weaknesses?

Question # 6

Why did you leave your last job?

Question # 7

What sort of salary are you expecting?

Question # 8

Do you like to work in a team or on your own?

Question # 9

Can you provide a recent example of when you were under stress, and how you coped?

Question # 10

Are you willing to do after-hour work?

Question # 11

Are you computer literate?

Question # 12

What questions have you for us?