By: Lynette Mayo
If you’re like me, the thought of interviewing conjures images of sweaty palms, searching for the perfect answer and trying not to look nervous. However, these problems can be easily overcome with preparation.
HOW TO PREPARE Start with a little homework. Research the firm and the attorneys you will meet with at the interview. Try to obtain the names of the attorneys beforehand. It is easy to look up attorneys at www.martindale.com and learn much valuable information about their education, work history and areas of practice. There are thousands of books about interviewing and how to make a good impression. Find a few good ones and put to use their recommendations. My biggest help in preparing for interviews is to review a list of common questions interviewers ask and writing down possible answers to each. Then practice the answers out loud until you are comfortable with them.
WHAT EMPLOYERS REALLY WANT TO KNOW ABOUT YOU Though skills and experience are obviously important, today more and more emphasis is being placed on how well the candidate will "fit in" with his or her prospective coworkers. "A house divided against itself cannot stand." If the people working together in the same department, or on the same project cannot get along or work together well, the results will range from unsuccessful to disastrous.
A POSITIVE ATTITUDE IS ESSENTIAL The key element to successful interviewing is not your experience, your grades, what classes you took, your extracurricular activities, or any of the other basic necessities. Those skills are what got you the interview. The key element to successful interviewing can be summed up in one word: attitude. If you want to rise above others with better experience, better grades, or better anything, you will need to work on developing a highly positive work attitude. Keep these points in mind: * Feel good about yourself;
- Speak in a positive light about yourself and your abilities;
- Keep growing and learning by taking a class, attending seminars, etc.;
- Don’t take rejections too personally;
- Attitude is contagious - surround yourself with positive, supportive people; and
- Join a professional association.
Finally, be sure to bring a watch, pen, and pad of paper for taking notes. A briefcase or portfolio, if you have one, will help complete the look of professionalism. Avoid carrying purse if you can-it may detract from your professional image. And don't forget to take a few extra copies of your resume!
Need further help?? Go to the National Federal of Paralegals Associations website . You can use this valuable research tool to search for jobs and answers to many questions about interviewing, resume writing, cover letters and more.
