Definitely do not say these four answers while vying for a senior executive position.
The First.
You’ll hear this at almost every interview you go to in your life. It should be an easy question. Are you sure? Maybe you haven’t interviewed in a while. It’s more of a statement than a question.
Question/Statement: Tell me about yourself.
Do not answer: Well, after work, I go home, and I play with my five cats until sundown.
Nothing against cats, but about why you chose to be an attorney. What is it about the law that drives you? What are you passionate about?
The Second.
This is another pretty popular question. A skilled recruiter is going to ask this one for sure.
Question: What is your biggest weakness?
Do not answer — Pecan pie. It’s a guilty pleasure of mine.
Although humor helps to break the ice and nurture relationships, get to the point. Why should I hire you? What unique skills do you have that will take the firm to the next level?
The Third.
This question is bound to come up, so make sure you know your stuff front and back. Like most other interview questions, it is less about what you really do and more about what you can bring to the table.
Question: What can you tell me about your past experience at so and so?
Do not answer — I really liked my job at so and so, but the people were just so boring, and the boss came in with crocs on every day.
You may not have liked the people that you worked with, but your boss’s fashion sense is definitely not a professional reason for your departure. Talk about an important case you won. How you did it? Were you part of a team or were you the lead?
The Fourth.
The last question is not unlike the others — but may take a little bit more thought and research into the industry, the company, and your own experience to find the right answer.
Question: What are your salary expectations?
Do not answer: Whatever will help me keep up my mysterious lifestyle.
You don’t want to under or over value yourself out of the position. You can ask back, what is the salary range for this position?
These answers may seem silly, but the questions are no joke. In order to be successful at any job interview you need to be able to formulate the correct answers to these and many other questions.
About: On Balance Search Consultants
On Balance offers great insight and industry intelligence. Shari Davidson, president of On Balance Search Consultants, advises experienced attorneys at every stage of their career to take them to the next level. From making the lateral partner move to succession planning.
Shari takes a proactive approach to advising law firms on how to take a firm to the next level and helps rising talent make the transition to the right law firm. On Balance Search identifies opportunities that exist today, not down the road.
Contact us today. Call 516-731-3400 or visit our website at https://onbalancesearch.com.
Please note that the content of this blog does not constitute legal advice and is only intended for the educational purpose of the reader. Please consult your legal counsel for specifics regarding your specific circumstances and the laws in your states pertaining to social media and any legal restrictions regarding the law.
