Here at BSL, we are always on hand to provide advice and tips from CV writing all the way to the interview process.

99.9% of times you will have an interview for a position - unless you are fortunate enough to secure a position within a family or friends organisation or if a position doesn’t require any sort of interview at all.

Most people dread the thought of an interview. However, trust us to say that it is not too bad, especially when you have prepared yourself as much as you can.

The interview is your chance to shine. So make sure it doesn’t become a missed opportunity. All it takes is a little preparation – and you’ll be surprised what a difference it makes. After all, no matter how witty, bright and suited to the job you are, if you haven’t done your homework no-one will be impressed. Most interviews last about an hour – and while there may be a panel of interviewers, for a first meeting it’s more likely to be one or two.

Below are a few tips which should be considered when you reach the interview process.

• As simple and obvious as it may sound, make sure you know exactly where the interview is going to take place. Allow extra travelling time. Also get to know alternative methods of transport just in case your train is delayed you will know which bus to catch etc.

• Leave time to read the file of press cuttings many law firms have in their reception. This simply allows something extra to mention in the interview should you think it is necessary.

• Make sure you have a copy of the job description and understand the role. It can also be helpful to highlight beforehand any particular aspects of the post which are relevant to your experience, or that you are particularly interested in.

• A little extra research goes a long way too. The firm’s own website will tell you about their work and clients, and many have archive sections which can help with much of the background. If it’s a law firm, use the Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners websites to look into specialist areas of law, recommended individuals at the firm as well as competitors and recent updates.

• The week before your interview, check the trade press – The Lawyer, Legal Week and the Law Society Gazette and any business related journals – for the latest information.

• Write your questions down before you go and take them with you to the interview. This will show your prospective employers that you have thought hard about what you want from the post before you get there. It will also demonstrate organisation on your part and ensures that you don't forget any questions that are important to you.

• Switch off your mobile phone. If you forget to and it rings, immediately apologise to your interviewer.

• Ensure you maintain eye contact with your interviewer and that your handshake is firm.

• Don’t just say yes or no, be prepared for a competency based interview – this means you will need to demonstrate your interest in the job and the company. 

• Although tempting, don't be negative about your existing employer. They may be the worst person you've ever worked for but telling a prospective new employer just how bad they are doesn't do your image any good. An interview is an opportunity for you to tell the interviewer the advantages of employing you, not the disadvantages of working for your present company.

• Appearance is important – smart suit, polished shoes – and carry any bags or files in your left hand leaving your right free for a firm handshake.

• Take a copy of your CV to the meeting and read through it beforehand so you’re ready to answer questions on it, especially any particular areas of law you’ve shown knowledge of. Also, use your interests and hobbies section to develop a rapport when you’re asked about them.

• Smile, stay positive. If they crack a joke which you don’t find funny, laugh with them. Go with the flow.

• It may sound simple to say ‘don’t be nervous.’ However, just relax and enjoy the ride. If it doesn’t go your way, always remember an interview is an invaluable experience. You will know where you went wrong and how you can prepare for the next one.

• Many candidates are so intimidated by the interview they forget that the interviewer has a stake in seeing the candidate succeed

• They don't want you to fail; they want you to show them why you will succeed with their company. The sooner they hire you, the sooner the search can end.

Our interviewing experts at BSL are here to provide a professionally tailored service for our candidates. Our one-to-one interview coaching are constructed around your specific needs, whether you are going for a competency-based interview, a phone interview, a stress interview or any other type. Our services allow you to undergo plenty of practice including a mock interview.

For further information please contact us and one of our executives will be in touch.