It started with some random comments from hiring contacts and then we realized we were seeing a trend: associates from highly regarded firms were committing faux pas during their in-person interviews. COVID forced the legal profession to finally accept the convenience of virtual interviews, but it created a mini generation of attorneys who had never interviewed for a legal job in person. These attorneys were hired without meeting their colleagues face-to-face or seeing the offices they might ultimately inhabit.
Although virtual screening interviews are still a big time-saver for both sides, face-to-face interviews are again a critical step of the recruitment process for most law firms and in-house departments.
Here are some reminders about behaviors that might have slipped between the virtual cracks:
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
First impressions are hard to shake. Make yours count.
Arrive Early
Give yourself a buffer to account for traffic delays, parking, and getting through security. Have time to go to the restroom, not appear rushed, and observe the vibe of the office and how people interact with each other while you wait.
Dress Code
Yes, you have to wear real pants. And no, yoga pants and hoodies are not OK. How you’re dressed is the ultimate first impression at an in-person interview, and norms vary widely. If you’re using a recruiter, ask them about appropriate attire for that employer. If you apply directly, ask your HR contact. We advise candidates to consult the firm website to see how the lawyers present themselves to the public.
Getting the dress code right is critical, even if the firm has a casual vibe. Appropriate attire can also vary according to geography or industry. We’ve had tech clients who expect their inhouse attorneys to dress informally so they appear like an approachable part of the team, while others want their attorneys to “dress the part” and look like authority figures whose advice must be taken seriously. Recruiting contacts we spoke with agree it’s better to err on the side of overdressing and looking more professional rather than dressing inappropriately casual and risk affecting your confidence or showing a lack of respect and understanding of the company culture.
Whatever you wear, check beforehand to make sure it’s clean, wrinkle-free, and comfortable. You want to focus on the interview, not the tag scratching your neck.
Grooming
Unlike on Zoom, you’re visible 360 degrees—and this includes your nails, the hairs growing on the back of your neck, and dirty shoes. Metallic hair extensions and green “claw” nails (actual examples from clients) distract from your message during an in-person interview. Avoid overpowering fragrances.
Greetings
Greet everyone (staff and attorneys) with a warm hello, genuine smile, and direct eye contact—like you’re saying hello to a friend or colleague. Many firms will ask everyone their impressions of you.
Handshakes
Like it or not, handshakes are back. In most interview settings, a firm, confident handshake is expected. That said, it’s important to read the room. If your interviewer extends a hand, respond with a smile, eye contact, and a confident grip. If the interviewer doesn’t initiate the handshake, it is fine to ask, “Are you comfortable with a handshake?” This shows respect for the interviewer and your social sensitivity and adaptability.
BODY LANGUAGE
Zoom is a great barrier for many nervous habits: Your hands are rarely in the picture, your posture is hard to discern, and your wildly tapping foot is out of sight. Your body language is much more visible when you’re face-to-face. It’s a key indicator of your confidence, professionalism, and enthusiasm for the job.
Eye Contact
On Zoom, you were told to look at the camera, not at your interviewer’s face on the screen. In person, eye contact means “eye contact.” It should feel natural, like you’re chatting with a friend. Maintain steady eye contact whether you’re listening or speaking, with natural occasional breaks to avoid staring.
Posture
Sit up straight in your chair or lean slightly forward to convey interest and engagement. Excessive reclining or slouching can indicate a lack of confidence. Plant your feet on the ground or cross them at the ankles to avoid fidgeting or toe-tapping. Overcrossing your legs or wrapping them tightly around the legs of your chair might be your comfort pose on Zoom, but it’s not a professional look in person.
Hand Gestures
As a rule, keep your hands visible (a common cue of openness and honesty) but avoid clasping them too tightly. Rest them loosely on your lap or on the table when listening. Gestures should feel natural and be appropriate. Avoid pointing, which can seem aggressive.
OTHER BASICS
Bring a printed copy of your resume with you in case your interviewer doesn’t have it handy. They’ll appreciate it, and you’ll look like someone who prepares and gives attention to details.
Turn off your phone completely. It should be out of sight and ideally not even on vibrate unless you’re specifically waiting for an emergency call. Anything short of a silenced phone is distracting to you and the interviewer.
Know your resume and anticipate questions you might get asked. The Firmwide Manager of Lateral Recruiting for an international law firm client of ours noted that many candidates relied too much on notes during their Zoom interviews. Your in-person interview demands a higher level of preparation.
Pro tip: Give yourself a mock interview. Practice answers to possible interview questions while sitting in front of a mirror or your cellphone video camera and note gestures or unconscious facial expressions you need to fine-tune. It’s awkward, but it can be helpful!
CONCLUDING THOUGHTS
Transitioning from virtual to in-person interviews can seem like a big shift, but with the right preparation you’ll leave a positive impression. Appreciate the opportunity you have from an in-person interview to get a fuller sense of your future colleagues, the office, and the firm.
