Sandra J. Bishop, president of Executive Solutions, is an executive coach and career strategist. She will periodically answer questions that can help lawyers get that next position.
What can I do to initially impress the interviewer?
Dress professionally. For men, this means a suit and a tie, polished pair of shoes, fresh haircut, cleanly shaven and a ring and watch only. For women: suit — preferably with a white blouse, skirt length at least to the knee, neutral hose, and polished pumps with no more than 2- to 3-inch heels. Your makeup should be modest with a professional haircut. Pearl earrings/necklace will round off your attire. You of course may wear a ring and watch.
You can walk in and immediately set the tone. How? Be positive, gracious, and project a good energy. We know the interviewer is in charge, but … you are in control.
Most people judge a book by its cover. Right or wrong, human nature directs us to make initial or snap judgments. Remember, first impressions are important. “You never have a second chance to make a first impression.”
No fish handshakes — ladies or gentlemen! Firm handshakes always. Look the interviewer in the eye, and maintain good eye contact throughout the interview. Do not take a seat until directed to do so. If you have a choice, choose to sit in a straight chair at a table, but not on a sofa; the temptation is to fall into a casual manner. Your demeanor must be professional.
These may seem incidental, and perhaps obvious in nature, but it is amazing how many professionals do not plug into these behaviors or attire, and instead exercise a laissez-faire approach.
Everyone says you should have a two-minute commercial prepared for an interview. What do you think?
I think it’s an excellent idea. Because you are being assessed both personally and professionally, be prepared to tell a brief story about who and what you are all about. Begin with sharing a bit about where you were born, childhood, family, college, and career highlights with emphasis on the industry profession and positions that particularly describe your successful climb up the corporate latter. Cite noteworthy examples of accomplishments, promotions and high-level project assignments.
Please note, if there are other notable pieces of information, you can easily work them into the remainder of the interview.
How do I respond when I am asked why I lost my job?
Be truthful about why you left your last job. Let’s face it, in today’s market, most professionals who have lost their jobs have done so because of work-force reduction (RIF), mergers/acquisitions, or, sadly, because companies have closed their doors. I always tell my clients: These days, nobody cares. Honest!
Attorneys in Transition Event on May 8, 2009
