By: Terrteel Muawia

As much as we want to find the perfect job and start our professional career I’m sure we all dread the applications and the interview process.

I have recently been on a job hunt, and it has been interesting to say the least. Most of us want to work for magic circle law firms and big companies, but not all of us are able to do so. Therefore it is important to apply to smaller firms, in-house positions and consulting firms.

How I prepared for the interview :

• Research the law firm ( their practice area, their objectives as a firm) ( I found an article written on the firm I applied for on their firm culture and work ethic so when asked about; why this firm? I was able to comfortably answer.  
• Research the practice areas in which your law firm specializes in
• Make sure you are commercially aware.
• In my case because I am applying to a law firm in China I made sure to brush up on some legal terminology specific to the practice areas of the firm
• Dress the part and look presentable ( its all about the first impression)  

The interview :

• The interview lasted for about 2 hours , I introduced myself and answered questions the partner had about my CV ( ie my degree , experiences , skills etc). the second part of the interview the partner asked me specific questions regarding my knowledge on internet , data protection and cyber security law ( which was a new area for me that I had to do some research on) , I was then also asked scenario based questions which some where slightly challenging and needed a minute to think about. Towards the end of the interview, I was given the opportunity to ask any questions I had about the firm or personal questions I had for the partner.
• The experience was great I was able to speak about different topics as well as learn about new areas of the law. Moreover because I am applying for a position in a Chinese law ( international department )  firm I spoke two languages in the interview which i found to be rewarding.
• Prior to the interview I read a couple of articles on the firm and learned about their strive for teamwork and how it is the foundation of the firms culture. In the interview I mentioned what i read about and the partner appreciated the fact that I did my research because it was something she really cared about.

What I learned after the interview :

• Learn how to sell yourself ( yes, as much as you need to work you must always show the employer what you have to offer and that you might posses skills that would benefit them. I always tend to shy away from “ showing off” but I learnt that we should never look down on our experiences and skills that we hone.)
• Research about the areas of law in which the firms practices. In my case the firm I applied to specializes in internet and cyber security law as well as data compliance and cross border transfer of personal data. I did some research to be aware during the interview. Despite doing my research I felt that I could have put more effort in by looking for specific information rather than having a general idea on the matter.
• When it comes to the question on expected salary, Make sure you have done some research as well or asked around about how much you should be getting in the position you are applying to, so that you are not asking for too less or too much. Be confident don’t sell yourself short and if the number you gave seems to high always make a comment to reassure the interviewee that you are willing to work hard and that you can compromise if necessary.
• Ask if there are opportunities for promotion. Not only does it show that you are willing to work long term but also it is a chance for you to see if you are able to grow in the firm and work towards higher goals.

Finally interviews are valuable, although you might not get the job you still learn some soft skills along the way. You slowly get comfortable doing interviews and learn new tricks and trades every time you attend one. So never get disappointed if you don’t get the job, always see it as an opportunity and a worthwhile experience.  Wishing everyone the best with your future careers inshallah.