Parts of the Interview
No two interviews are identical. Individual personalities and styles influence the tone and pace of an interview. However, the basic structure of an interview is fairly standard. The typical interview has four parts:
Introduction. Establish rapport here. The interviewer will note his/her first impressions and make initial judgments about your professional appearance, manner, enthusiasm, energy and communication skills.
Your Background. The interviewer will make a determination about your basic qualifications for the job, based on your responses to interview questions. While you are listening or responding to questions, the interviewer will note how you handle yourself and revise (or confirm) the initial impression made during the introduction.
Discussion. This critical part of the interview matches your qualifications with the employer’s needs. Your comments during this part of the interview should help the interviewer determine whether you are a fit for their company. This is the time to ask questions, clarify information previously provided and received, and really sell yourself.
Close. This is a brief wrap-up. You may have an opportunity to ask any final questions. The interviewer should let you know about next steps.
The Office Interview
After the initial interview, the next step is usually an invitation to visit the Firm’s office.
What to expect:
- Be prepared to talk to professional staff at all levels. They will ask you about yourself and your career goals. Expect some fairly detailed questions.
- You will be expected to ask questions. Your questions should be focused on the nature of the work, typical duties and responsibilities, etc.
- Be Prepared!
- Get a good night’s sleep.
- Prepare questions ahead of time.
- Be attentive and show interest in the Firm.
