November 20, 2009
When Drafting Applications & Interviewing: Remember What Employers Want
When you apply for a job, you know exactly what you're looking for. You want a company you love, great co-workers, a decent salary, a culture where you fit in and, most importantly, you want to love what you'll be doing.
But do you ever consider what the employer is looking for in its employees?
While it is important to tailor each application and interview to the specific qualities of each employer, there are some universal traits that all employers look for in their candidates. Make sure your application materials and interviews are addressing these things as well.
For a good article on what these universal traits are and how to approach them, see this article written by Rachel Zupek for CareerBuilder.com.
Posted by cld30 at 04:22 PM
October 14, 2009
The Importance of the Informational Interview
Are you doubtful about the benefits of an informational interview and hesitant to take time to schedule and attend them? Keep in mind that, as a recent article on Law.com explained, you need to think about an informational interview as “a long-term investment, not one where you expect an immediate return.” When you prepare properly for an informational interview, you can obtain information and contacts that will be extremely useful in your job search.
For additional tips and advice on the informational interview, read the full article here.
Posted by kcc17 at 11:05 AM
January 30, 2009
What Will You Ask in Your Interview?
One of the biggest interview faux pas a candidate can make is not to have any questions to ask at the end of an interview when the interviewer inevitably asks, “Do you have any questions for me?” Not having any questions to ask can lead an interviewer to believe that you do not truly have enthusiasm for the position or the organization or that you did not properly prepare for the interview.
What questions should you ask? Feel free to ask what the procedure going forward will be: what are the next steps and when should you expect to hear from the employer again? But you should also have one or two more interesting and insightful questions prepared to ask. Remember that the more thoughtful your questions, the better impression you’ll leave with the interviewer. Here are some suggestions for things you might ask:
- You can ask questions that follow up on matters discussed previously in the interview, such as seeking additional information about how work assignments are made.
- What is the culture like at this organization? For instance, is there strong collaboration among different departments?
- What is the company’s policy on attending seminars, workshops, and other training opportunities?
- What are the most important traits you look for in a new hire/new clerk/new attorney?
Of course, there are some questions you never want to ask. Never ask any sort of “what’s in it for me” question. Don’t ask about salary or other compensation. Don’t ask argumentative questions or otherwise argue with the interviewer. Don’t ask any question that can be answered by basic research on the employer’s website or in the employer’s literature.
The CSO has an excellent book, available for students to check out, called 201 Best Questions to Ask on Your Interview. Feel free to come in and take a look at the additional advice and suggestions that this book offers. And, of course, Guerrilla Tactics for Getting the Legal Job of Your Dreams (also available in the CSO) also provides excellent information for interview preparation.
Posted by cld30 at 03:33 PM
March 20, 2008
References and Recommendations
At some point in the job search process, you are certain to be asked for references or letters of recommendation. (Letters of recommendation are most common for judicial clerkships and for fellowships.) The request for a reference or a letter may happen early in the application process or just prior to receiving an offer. In either case, you need to be prepared to provide a potential employer with the requested information and you need to make sure the people you use as references or letter writers are prepared to receive a call or write a letter. Some tips from the CSO:
1. Don’t wait until the last minute to ask people to be references or to write a letter of recommendation. Waiting until the last minute is always unfair to the person who you are asking, and it is particularly unfair if you are asking someone to write a letter of recommendation. Writing these letters takes time and you want to make sure you give your recommender plenty of time. If you’re not sure whether you will need a letter of recommendation, contact potential recommenders ahead of time anyway to see if they would be willing to write letter should you need them. Do the same for potential references, making sure to ask people to be references before providing their name as a reference. This will give you time to provide your references with the information they need to speak accurately about your skills. (See number 3, below.)
2. Use people who are familiar with your work and your skills. Yes, this specifically includes law school professors. Keep in mind that many legal employers are particularly interested in your performance in law school and, therefore, establishing a good relationship with your professors and using these professors as references is important. Past or current employers are also a source of potential references, as long as the person you use is specifically familiar with you and the work you’ve done.
3. Make sure your recommenders and references have accurate information. Give recommenders and references a copy of your current resume so that they can speak accurately about you. And make sure they have information about the specific jobs for which you’ve used their name as a reference so they can speak to the skills you have that might be most relevant to the position.
4. Stay in touch. Stay in touch with the people who have agreed to be your references so they know where you are applying, when they might be receiving a call, and who might be calling them.
5. Express your appreciation. No one is obligated to serve as a recommender or a reference for you so remember to thank your recommenders and references for assisting you with your job search.
Posted by kcc17 at 05:26 PM
February 11, 2008
After the Interview
Congratulations! You've made it past the initial resume screening process and successfully completed your interview, BUT there are still a couple of things that need to be done. After your interview, you'll want to take time to do the following:
1. Send a Thank-You - It is good practice to always send a thank-you letter, card or email to the attorney(s) you interviewed with, as well as the recruiting administrator, if applicable. Use this as an opportunity to remind the employer of your qualifications and to reiterate your interest in the position. Be sure to send the thank-you(s) as soon as possible after the interview (the very next day is great, but no later than a week after the interview).
2. Evaluate Your Performance - Use each interview as a learning experience. Assess your answers to certain questions to better prepare for future interviews. Jot down questions that surprised you so you can be better prepared to answer them in the next interview.
Please contact the CSO or schedule a meeting with a counselor if you have any questions about the interview process.
Posted by cld30 at 03:13 PM
January 28, 2008
Interview Wardrobe
Everyone knows that first impressions are extremely important, especially when it comes to interviewing. So besides smiling, making eye contact and greeting your potential employer with a firm handshake, you want to make sure you are dressed for the occasion. It goes without saying that law is a conservative profession. Keep this in mind when choosing your interview outfit.
Men - be sure to wear a conservative, good quality black, navy, gray or brown suit. You'll want to invest in a white/muted color button-down shirt to wear under your jacket, and of course, a nice conservative tie. Your dress shoes should be shined as well.
Women - much of the same applies. A nice conservative-colored suit, conservative heels (you don't want to be tripping down the hallway), pantyhose and professional makeup. Stay away from flashy jewelry and perfume. If you tend to fiddle with your hair, pull it back into a ponytail or bun.
Be sure to check your breath before you walk into an interview, and NEVER smoke right before an interview. Most interviews will be conducted in a relatively small room, and you certainly don't want to smell offensive to a potential employer.
The bottom line is that if you feel good about the way you look, you will be much more confident during the interview. If you are unsure of a particular wardrobe choice, feel free to stop by the CSO and ask a counselor!
Posted by cld30 at 11:46 AM
January 25, 2008
What Will You Ask in Your Interview?
One of the biggest interview faux pas a candidate can make is not to have any questions to ask at the end of an interview when the interviewer inevitably asks, “Do you have any questions for me?” Not having any questions to ask can lead an interviewer to believe that you do not truly have enthusiasm for the position or the organization or that you did not properly prepare for the interview.
What questions should you ask? Feel free to ask what the procedure going forward will be: what are the next steps and when should you expect to hear from the employer again? But you should also have one or two more interesting and insightful questions prepared to ask. Remember that the more thoughtful your questions, the better impression you’ll leave with the interviewer. Here are some suggestions for things you might ask:
- You can ask questions that follow up on matters discussed previously in the interview, such as seeking additional information about how work assignments are made.
- What is the culture like at this organization? For instance, is there strong collaboration among different departments?
- What is the company’s policy on attending seminars, workshops, and other training opportunities?
- What are the most important traits the employer looks for in a new hire/new clerk/new attorney?
Of course, there are some questions you never want to ask. Never ask any sort of “what’s in it for me” question. Don’t ask about salary or other compensation. Don’t ask argumentative questions. Don’t ask any question that can be answered by basic research on the employer’s website or in the employer’s literature.
The CSO has an excellent book, available for students to review, called 201 Best Questions to Ask on Your Interview. Feel free to come in and take a look at the additional advice and suggestions that this book offers.
And, don’t forget, the Spring Interview Program is fully underway! The deadline for Phase I employers is Tuesday, January 29th!
Posted by kcc17 at 05:09 PM
January 17, 2008
1L Interview Skills Workshops
As part of the Career Services Office’s on-going Professional Development Series, the CSO will present 1L Interview Skills workshops starting next week. While these sessions are optional, the CSO strongly encourages every first year student to attend. Whether you have interviewed for numerous jobs or have never been on an interview, the Interview Skills workshops will help you prepare for legal interviews.
Please feel free to attend the session that is most convenient for you. To attend a session, please RSVP through Symplicity. Simply log on to Symplicity (https://law-case-csm.symplicity.com//students/), click on Events, click on the session you would like to attend, and click RSVP.
The workshops will be offered on the following days and times:
Wednesday, Jan. 23
12:00 – 1:00 pm, Room A57
Wednesday, Jan. 23
2:30 – 3:30 pm, Room A65
Thursday, Jan. 24
12:00 – 1:00 pm, Room A57
Thursday, Jan. 24
4:00 – 5:00 pm, Room 158
Monday, Jan. 28
9:20 – 10:20 pm, Room A57
Monday, Jan. 28
12:00 -1:00 pm, Room A65
Please feel free to bring your lunch to the noon sessions. Please contact Kelli Curtis in the CSO with any questions.
Posted by kcc17 at 06:19 PM
January 09, 2008
Mock Interview Program - Save the Date!
Need to practice your interviewing skills? If you have never been on an interview with a legal employer, or if you just need to polish your interviewing skills, consider participating in our Mock Interview Program.
The annual Mock Interview Program will take place on Saturday, February 2nd here at the law school. To help you prepare for the legal job market, Case School of Law alumni and their colleagues in the practice of law are volunteering to conduct mock interviews with current law students. The Mock Interview Program is an excellent way to get invaluable advice and interview feedback from practicing attorneys. Mock interviews will take place from 10:00am until 12:00pm.
Mark your calendars now! Additional information, including instructions for signing up for interviews, will be sent out next week.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact Heather DiFranco or Kelli Curtis.
Posted by kcc17 at 01:35 PM
October 22, 2007
Hiring Partners and Recruiters Tell It Like It Is
Everyone agrees that interviewing is a necessary, but stressful process. Fred Cohn, a writer for Jungle Law, interviewed four hiring partners and recruiters to find out what it really is that they are looking for in a successful candidate. I've highlighted a few notable answers below.
What's the first thing you look for when a candidate walks into the room?
"We want to find out if they have a sincere interest in our law firm, and in the particular office where the interview is taking place... It's also important that they have a good personality, a good sense of humor, and that they're outgoing. Lawyers are in the business of advocating for their clients, so we look for individuals who will be good advocates." Michael R. Gordon, Kirkpatrick & Lockhart Nicholson Graham
"We look for indicators of confidence, poise, intelligence." Rod Miller, Weil, Gotshal & Manges
What's the best thing a candidate can do to make a good impression?
"Information still rules. The more you know about the company, the more it will distinguish you from other candidates." Karyn Thomas, Arent Fox
What are your turn off's?
"It you don't make good eye contact or have good posture, it leaves a bad impression with the interviewer." Rod Miller, Weil, Gotshal & Manges
"I try to elicit the reasons a student has for coming to a particular location of our firm. We want people to show up for our summer program because they're interested, not just because they're dating someone in the city." Matthew Gorson, Greenberg Traurig
"If a writing sample has typos, that's a bad sign." Michael R. Gordon, Kirkpatrick & Lockhart Nicholson Graham
To read the full article, click here.
Posted by cld30 at 03:40 PM
September 24, 2007
Following Up After Interviews
Once your interview is over, there are still a couple of housekeeping tasks that must be done. First, always be sure to send a thank you letter or email to the attorney(s) you met with. A thank you note is the perfect opportunity to reiterate your interest in the position and remind the interviewer(s) why you are the perfect candidate for the job. You should send your letter in a timely manner (within one week of the interview at the latest, but the very next day would be ideal) and make sure it is free of any grammatical or spelling errors. For sample thank you letters and emails, please look in Section 4 of your Legal Career Search Guide.
When it comes to following up after an interview, the best way to approach this situation is to broach the subject at the end of your interview. Simply ask the interviewer(s) when they plan on contacting students for second interviews or offers. Make a note of that date and, if you have not heard from them by then, give it a couple more days and then call. You'll introduce yourself and explain that you are calling to follow up on the interview you had a couple weeks ago. As long as you are polite, a follow up phone call will not be considered overreaching or inappropriate.
If you have any questions about the follow up process, please stop by the CSO to chat with a counselor!
Posted by cld30 at 01:51 PM
April 27, 2007
The Dreaded Interview Question
"Tell me about yourself." Does this "question" instantly make you cringe? Many interviewers use this as a way to begin an interview. Of course, your response will likely set the tone for the entire interview, so you want to be well prepared with a confident response.
Many students wonder where to start with their response. What does the interviewer want to hear? Should I start from birth to present - filled with details regardless of their relevance? The answer is NO.
For a polished response to this "question," you need to think of three to five accomplishments from your past that are relevant to the position you are interviewing for. These accomplishments can include skills that you use effectively, in-depth knowledge of a certain practice area, awards, relevant coursework, and various other qualifications. Select these accomplishments by reviewing your resume, and then coming up with at least one example that demonstrates your ability. When providing the example, be precise - do not ramble. Generally, any answer that extends beyond two minutes is probably too long.
Once you have determined your accomplishments and selected examples, you need to become comfortable with the material so you can be confident with your response. Just be sure that you do not over-reherse your answer so as to sound like you are making a speech. Be conversational and let your personality show a bit.
Remember that you cannot control the questions that an interviewer asks, but you CAN control your answers. By preparing for interviews, you can spin any question from a trap that stumps you into an opportunity that can advance you. For more interview tidbits and hints, stop by the CSO to meet with a counselor!
Posted by cld30 at 11:00 AM
April 16, 2007
Interviewing Tips
We all know that interviewing is a critical part of the recruiting process and all legal employers rely on interviewing to select the best candidate for the job. So what can you do to make your interview as successfull as possible? Take the following advice from a prominent international firm:
1. Be yourself, be honest and try to relax.
2. Be prepared. Make sure you understand the process and have researched the firm. Speak to current students.
3. Know your resume and cover letter. Anticipate questions and consider responses. Understand what your strengths and skills are and how best to highlight them through examples.
4. Understand your own goals and objectives: to make a favourable impression, to collect information about the firm and to assess your own “fit”.
5. Understand the firm’s goals and objectives: to provide information about the firm, to collect information about you, to assess your “fit” with the firm and to leave you with a favourable and accurate impression about Davies and our selection process.
6. Think about why you are interested in the firm and articulate your reasons. Do not be afraid to ask tough questions or raise any issues of concern.
7. Identify the qualities of your ideal firm – practice areas, culture, size, work/life balance, opportunities for growth or travel. Be sure to ask the interviewers about issues that are important to you. Engage in conversation and ask questions that show you are interested in the firm and the type of work. Try not to be too "scripted" or prepared but remember to adapt to the conversation (ie. sometimes answers to questions can appear "canned"). Get a feel for the firm: the values, opportunities for continuing education and growth, social atmosphere etc.
8. Create a list of questions you want to ask beforehand. Think about one or two questions that are really important to you and consider asking all the firms those questions so you can evaluate their responses. Do not ask questions that are already answered on the firm’s website.
9. If you are interested in the firm, ask to return to meet more people. Try to meet as many people as you can because remember no one lawyer is indicative of the entire firm.
10. Wear comfortable business attire. Ask interviewers for their business card.
On the other hand, try to stay away from these common interviewing mistakes:
1. Lack of preparation: no knowledge of firm’s practice areas, values and approach.
2. Nervousness: try to relax: remember on paper you have already met the firm’s standards.
3. Not listening to question asked: be responsive and ask for clarification if unsure.
4. Not engaging in conversation: interact with the interviewers and ask questions.
5. Being too scripted or prepared.
6. Going overboard on flattering the firm: unfortunately, this rarely comes across as sincere.
7. Not showing enough interest in the firm: we want people who want to be here.
8. Forgetting that dinners/cocktails parties are still part of the interview/selection process.
9. Not having an answering machine or cell to enable firms to reach you during the week.
10. Inappropriate attire: business attire is advisable for interviews, dinners and receptions.
Posted by cld30 at 03:45 PM
March 27, 2007
The Successful Interview
With many students interviewing for summer and permanent positions right now, this is a great time to fine tune your interview skills. Here are a few tips for interview success:
1. Research the employer. You should know enough about the employer to articulate why you are interested in working for them.
2. Research the interviewer. It will be easier to carry on a conversation with the interviewer if you know what college and law school he/she attended and what areas of law he/she focuses on.
3. Know your resume. Be ready to discuss every aspect of your resume, including your college thesis and/or work projects that you completed years ago.
4. Ask questions that demonstrate you did your research and came prepared. Have questions that go beyond (or expand on) what you have already talked about in your interview.
5. Bring extra copies of all relevant documents, including your resume, writing sample, transcript and list of references.
5. Arrive early to avoid any last minute issues, parking, etc.
If you want to brush up on your interview skills, just stop by the CSO to make an appointment with Alyson, Candice, or Kelli for a mock interview.
Posted by kcc17 at 10:35 AM
February 28, 2007
Piercings & Interviews
Because we want you to succeed in your interviews and get the jobs you truly want, we thought we should pass along a bit of advice regarding piercings because it does come up on occasion. Piercings other than ear piercings should be removed for interviews. Many students have non-ear lobe, nose, tongue and perhaps other piercings that might be easily seen by an interviewer. If this is the case, you are well-served to remove them. While more and more of your friends may have them, most employers do not want to see them, at least when they are interviewing you. Once you get the job, you can assert your individuality by showing your piercings if you feel it would be appropriate in the particular work environment. And if you wear earrings, be sure to keep them small and simple. Piercings, tattoos, etc. may be commonplace for the younger generation, but keep in mind that they aren't for older generations! Also, interviewers aren't just thinking about you appearing in their office among other co-workers; they are picturing you with other attorneys, clients, judges, etc.
Posted by smp20 at 04:36 PM
February 22, 2007
Preparing for Telephone Interviews
Employers use telephone interviews as a way of identifying and recruiting candidates for employment. Phone interviews are often used to screen candidates in order to narrow the pool of applicants who will be invited for in-person interviews. They are also used as way to minimize the expenses involved in interviewing out-of-town candidates.
While you are actively job searching, it is important to be prepared for a phone interview on a moment’s notice. You never know when a recruiter or a networking contact might call and ask if you have a few minutes to talk.
Prepare for a phone interview just as you would for a regular interview. Compile a list of your strengths and weaknesses, as well as a list of answers to typical interview questions.
• Dress for the interview. Some even suggest dressing just as you would in a face-to-face interview as it will improve your confidence and poise.
• Keep your resume in clear view, on top of your desk, or tape it to the wall near the phone, so it is at your fingertips when you need to answer questions.
• Have a short list of your accomplishments available to review.
• Have a pen and paper handy for note taking.
• Take the call in a place where you will not be interrupted.
• Clear the room - evict the kids and the pets. Turn off the stereo and the TV. Close the door. Consider reserving the CSO phone room.
• Avoid using a cell phone for the call. If you must use the cell phone, make sure you are some place where you have good cell reception -- the last thing you want is a "dropped call" during an important interview; make sure your cell phone is fully charged.
• Print the word "SMILE" on a sticky or piece of paper and set it in front of you next to your resume -- it will remind you to smile and a smile comes through in your voice; smiling will project a positive image to the listener and will change the tone of your voice.
• Do not smoke, chew gum, eat, or drink.
• Do keep a glass of water handy, in case you need to wet your mouth.
• Speak slowly and enunciate clearly. It may help to open your mouth a bit wider while you are speaking.
• Stand up. It gets your blood flowing, improves your posture, and improves your response time. Some people also feel like they think better on their feet.
• Use the person's title (Mr. or Ms. and their last name.) Only use a first name if they ask you to do so.
• Do not interrupt the interviewer.
• If there are multiple interviewers, try to keep track of who is asking the question. When one interviewer asks you a question, clarify who asked the question so you can direct your response to that person (see more tips regarding multiple interviewers below).
• Practice with a friend - it is hard to know how your voice comes across on the phone. Are you a low-talker? Do you talk too fast? Is it easy to understand you?
• Have questions prepared for the interviewer(s).
• Take your time – it is perfectly acceptable to take a moment or two to collect your thoughts.
• Give short answers.
• Remember your goal is to set up a face-to-face interview. After you thank the interviewer, ask if it would be possible to meet in person.
• Follow up with a thank you letter.
Posted by asa13 at 12:37 PM
February 09, 2007
Mock Interview Program Reminder
REMINDER:
The annual Mock Interview Program will take place February 12th – 16th. If you would like to participate, please stop by the CSO and sign up no later than Monday, February 12th!
Posted by kcc17 at 05:13 PM
February 07, 2007
2007 Patent Law Interview Program
Loyola University Chicago School of Law is coordinating and hosting the 2007 Patent Law Interview Program. This is an excellent opportunity if you are a 1L or 2L interested in practicing patent law.
If you have an undergraduate or graduate degree in engineering or a technical science, you may want to consider registering for the program. This program offers qualified law students from across the country the opportunity to interview with patent law firms, as well as law firms, corporations and government agencies with patent law departments. Last year, 150 employers from across the country participated, along with more than 1500 registered students from 135 accredited law schools.
The program will be held at the Chicago Marriott Suites O'Hare on Thursday & Friday August 2-3. There will be some employers who will interview one day and some who will interview both days.
To register, you must stop in the Career Services Office and sign the registration form before Friday, February 23 at 5pm.
Please plan to attend the Student Intellectual Property Panel tomorrow from 12:00 -1:00 pm in Room A57 if you are interested in participating in the Patent Law Interview Program. Students who participated in the program in previous years will discuss their experiences with the program. In addition, details regarding deadlines, accommodations, and interview selection will be discussed.
Posted by kcc17 at 05:28 PM
January 08, 2007
Do your research before the interview!
To be adequately prepared for your upcoming interview, you must be sure to research your prospective employer. Not only will you be able to impress your interviewer with all that you know about the employer, but you'll also be able to come up with some great questions to ask during the interview and you'll be more relaxed and confident too.
So what should you know about your prospective employer? How about:
Areas of practice
Location and size of office(s)
Professional and educational background of interviewer(s)
Significant lawsuits and/or legal matters involving the firm
Firm clients
Prominent/infamous lawyers at the firm
You can find information about legal employers in a variety of places, including:
Employer websites
Employer's NALP form - www.nalpdirectory.com for information on larger law firms, corporations, government agencies and public interest organizations that are registered with NALP
Martindale-Hubbell - www.martindale.com
CSO - We have firm brochures and literature for your review!
Peers
With all the information and resources literally at your fingertips, there is no excuse not to include employer research as part of your interviewing preparation. If you are having trouble finding information on a specific employer, please be sure to stop by the CSO and speak with a counselor - we would be more than happy to help!
Posted by cld30 at 11:28 AM
January 02, 2007
Interview Tip - Ask Impressive Questions!
When an interviewer gets ready to wrap up an interview they will most likely ask you "do you have any additional questions?" You don't ever want your answer to be "no, I think you covered everything." Show the interviewer that you did your research, came prepared, and have questions that go beyond (or expand on) what you have already talked about!
The questions that you ask should not only enable you to learn more about a potential employer but also allow you to demonstrate your interest in the employer and the position. Show you have done your research by saying (if true) "I recently read an article that highlighted your work in x area and I was hoping you could tell me more about that project." Or "I was reading on your website that you are growing x practice group and I am excited at the opportunity to work with that group. Is that a possibility for the summer and do you plan to continue to grow this group and/or other groups in the coming years?"
You want your interviews to feel like a conversation as often as possible so feel free to ask questions as you talk with you interviewer if they are relevant to what you are discussing. But keep in mind that you don't want to ask all of your questions! Hold a few back for the inevitable "do you have any questions?" You can impress the employer with your well researched and well prepared questions. If you still have a question about something you talked about earlier then say something along the lines of "we were talking earlier about how you mentor your law clerks, could you elaborate on that? Does that include weekly meetings, written feedback, etc.?"
Be sure to check out the CSO Blackboard course for additional tips on interviewing - just click on the Interviewing Info link on the left for great interviewing resources! And don't forget that the CSO counselors are available to conduct mock interviews to help you fine tune your interview skills. Feel free to stop by the CSO to make an appointment for a mock interview or to chat with a counselor about the types of questions to ask in interviews!
Posted by kcc17 at 06:21 PM
December 18, 2006
Informational Interviewing
Informational interviewing can be a very effective networking tool, as well as a great way to help you explore what types of law spark your interest. Law school alumni are one of the best sources for informational interviews. The CSO has alumni lists and contact information available for students who are interested.
So you've made a phone call to a contact, now what should you say? Well for starters, you do not want to ask your contact for a job or tell them that you are looking for a job. Most people are flattered when asked to give advice, but it makes for an awkward situation if you ask your contact for a job - something that they probably can't just give you. What you do want to start off with is mentioning the source that provided the contact to you in the first place. This gives your contact a frame of reference and sets them at ease. Then give a brief description of who you are and state what you're looking for. By that, I mean, "I'm a first year at Case Western and (insert source of contact info. here) recommended that I contact you. I'd really like to learn more about international law and I was hoping I could take you out for a cup of coffee to hear more about what you do." If your contact is able to meet with you - great! If not, you simply want to thank them anyway, and of course, ask if they know of anyone else who might be able to speak with you.
The etiquette during an informational interview is very similar to regular interviewing, but remember, you are the one who will be asking the questions. Come to an informational interview prepared with questions about how your contact got to where they are now. What is a typical day like for them? What classes did they find most useful in law school? And finally be sure to thank them for their time and always ask if they know of anyone else they think you should talk to.
For more information on this effective networking tool, stop by the CSO and talk to a counselor!
Posted by cld30 at 09:30 AM
November 15, 2006
Interviews with Prosecutors & Public Defenders
Hypothetical questions distinguish job interviews with prosecutors and public defenders from other types of positions, such as law firms or other public sector positions. Hypotheticals are used to assess the student’s ability to spot issues and analyze legal and ethical questions. While you want to show you understand both or all sides of a particular issue or question, you may also need to reach a conclusion – and be prepared to back it up if challenged. Hypotheticals may involve Evidence, Professional Responsibility, Criminal Law, and Criminal Procedure. Of course as with most legal questions, there isn’t necessarily one “right” answer; you’ll be doing well if you can spot issues, demonstrate your analytical skills, and withstand follow-up questions which may be challenging and designed to see how you respond to pressure!
Other likely areas of questioning:
• Why do you want to be a prosecutor/public defender? Be prepared to discuss coursework, internships, clinic, etc.
• Why do you want to be a prosecutor/public defender for this particular office? Know the office you are interviewing with!
• Where do you see yourself in five years? Interviewers are looking for a genuine commitment to public service and their organization.
• Questions and lines of conversation to get a sense of how you will deal with a heavy workload and lower pay than what some of your peers are earning. (Let the interviewers get to know you and see that you have a sense of humor.)
Posted by smp20 at 09:42 AM
October 03, 2006
Video Conference Interviewing is Available at the Law School
Case School of Law has video conference capabilities that make it easy for you to conduct a video conference job interview. This can be a good alternative to a phone interview for an out-of-town employer.
If a potential employer is interested in conducting a video conference interview, you need to complete a Media Services Equipment Request Form at least 48 hours prior to the time the interview will be conducted. You can find the forms on the door of the Audio Visual Services Department, Room A36 (across the hall from the CSO). Room A36 is also where the interview will take place. Prior to completing the form, you will need to ask the employer you are interviewing with if they have IP-based video conference capabilites. If so, ask for the IP address. If not, ask for the name of a technical contact that our AV specialists can speak with. After completing the form, you will make a copy for the CSO, keep the white copy for yourself and turn the yellow copy in to the AV Department.
As always, feel free to make an appointment with a CSO counselor for interviewing tips before your interview.
Posted by asa13 at 08:59 AM
September 05, 2006
Interview Success
With many 2L and 3L interviews going on right now, this is a great time to focus on interview basics. Here are five tips for interview success:
1. Prepare by learning about the employer. You should know enough about the employer to articulate why you are interested in working for them.
2. Prepare by learning about the interviewer. It will be easier to carry on a conversation with the interviewer if you know what college and law school he/she attended and what areas of law he/she focuses on.
3. Prepare by reviewing your resume. Be ready to discuss every aspect of your resume, including your college thesis and/or work projects that you completed years ago.
4. Bring extra copies of all relevant documents, including your resume, writing sample, transcript and list of references.
5. Arrive early to avoid any last minute issues.
If you want to brush up on your interview skills, Sarah, Alyson and Kelli are available for mock interviews.
Posted by asa13 at 10:04 AM