Interview Tips From the Experts


Timing is Everything
When scheduling interviews, think about whether you are a morning or afternoon person to build on your natural strengths. And, avoid scheduling too many interviews for the same day - do you really want to have to talk about yourself that much?

First Impressions Stick
Neatness counts. So does punctuality. Make a good first impression and it will take you a long way in the job hunt.

Know Thy Self
Give some long hard thought to why you are looking for a new position, why you are interviewing at a particular job, and why they should want you. Most likely, these will be the first questions that you are asked in the interview. Whether you feel it or not, show confidence and conviction in the interview … Right answer: After achieving many accomplishments in my current position, I am eager to move on to a new challenge. Wrong answers: No one else will have me/I hate my job.

Perception is Reality
Confidence in an interview is key. Interviewers like self-assured people with clear goals and accomplishments. Don't worry if you haven't found the cure for the common cold (yet!), a little creative thinking can go a long way when describing your experiences.

Know Thy Resume
Review your resume prior to the interview. Be able to elaborate on all points as well as explain any gaps in work experience.

Prepare, Prepare, Prepare,
You wouldn't have taken the bar exam without opening a book, right? Don't be caught unprepared in an interview. BEFORE the interview, research the firm or company and the interviewer, if possible. But …

Balance is Key
Don't fall into the trap of showing off how much you've researched the firm or partner. The interviewer wants to hear about you - not how much detail you know about them. And, there's nothing wrong with asking questions about the firm or a deal the partner has worked on - curiosity shows interest. Be an active participant in the interview.

Lights, Camera, Action
Think of your interview like a movie - if it's not interesting in the first few minutes, the audience will lose interest.

Turning the Tables
The interviewer will most likely provide you with time to ask your questions. Come prepared with questions but keep in mind, this is not the time to ask about salary or benefits. Good topics for discussion include scope of responsibility, goals and objectives for the position, department and/or company, and resources available. Leave the salary and benefits questions for your Conduit recruiter, we will research this information for you.

The Curve Balls
As sure as there are stars in the sky, there will be interviewers who like to see you sweat. If you should get thrown a curve ball, keep your composure first and foremost. Answer the questions as honestly as possible and don't forget, you are not obligated to answer personal questions such as whether you have children or are planning a family. That's nobody's business but your own.

Never Assume
If you meet with more than one interviewer, do not assume that they are aware of a previous conversation you have had with their colleague. Start from the beginning with each interviewer.

Finish Strong
End the interview by asking about next steps and follow up. Remember that this is your chance to leave a lasting impression.

Elephants May Never Forget, But...
To ensure that you do not forget any important information from the interview, take careful notes about the interview, with whom you met and your impressions about the position and the company. Or, share this information with your Conduit recruiter. This information will help you to make a final decision about your next step.

Miss Manners
If you are so inclined, feel free to send a thank you note or e-mail but keep it brief (3-4 sentences). This is not the time to fill the interviewer in on points you didn't mention in the interview. Save that for the second interview.

Our Final Thoughts
  • Remember to keep your options open in a job hunt. Interview in any and all areas that you have an interest. Don't limit yourself; you'll only regret it later.
  • Follow your interests - not what conventional wisdom thinks is "hot".
  • Searches require patience - the average search takes between 3-6 months.

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