Before your interview

Check the invitation – is there a requirement to do preparatory work? What format does it take? Are there assessment/task elements?

Research – the recruiter, competitors, the market, legal news and current affairs.

Re-read your CV or application form – are there any gaps that the interviewer is likely to ask about? Think about what you have to offer the recruiter and what your main strengths are.

Look at the professional codes of conduct if you are applying for trainee or pupillage positions.

Plan what to wear – keep it formal.

Try and arrange someone to do a mock interview with you (career advisers at universities offer this)

General tips for a legal job interview success

Speak clearly and slowly (if you are nervous, you are likely to speed up).

Provide a logical structure to your answers. For example: “I think there are three main issues… Firstly…Secondly… and finally…”

Think before you speak – it is perfectly acceptable to pause before answering in order to collect your thoughts.

Although you need to prepare for questions, remember that you are likely to need to think on your feet and it is good to show that you are not over-rehearsed.

Be interested and engaged – show you are listening by referring back to something an interviewer has said.