With January marking the peak of the recruitment season, job seekers are competing in a crowded and dynamic market. According to the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC), job vacancies are stabilising to healthier pre-pandemic levels, bringing optimism across industries—including the legal sector. As firms set new budgets and hiring objectives, interviews are key to landing your dream role.

This guide shares five expert tips to help you stand out, impress, and seal the deal during your next interview.

1. First Impressions Matter—Make Yours Count

Oscar Wilde famously said, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” Whether in person, over the phone, or via video, your initial impression can influence how an interviewer perceives your suitability before the formal discussion even begins.

Dress to Impress
Research suggests that 55% of first impressions are based on appearance alone. Dress codes in the legal sector vary, so it’s always wise to confirm attire expectations with your recruiter or the firm. Err on the side of professionalism, opting for tailored suits, classic dresses, and clean, polished grooming.

Master Your Body Language
Body language can make or break your first impression. According to an article in Legal Cheek the importance of eye contact, posture, and facial expressions are vital to convey confidence and sincerity. Stand tall, smile warmly, and avoid fidgeting. Keep your gestures intentional and aligned with your words to maintain credibility.

2. Preparation is Key to Success

Preparation is the golden rule of interviews. As Benjamin Franklin said, “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” Effective preparation demonstrates respect for the interviewer and allows you to present your skills with confidence and clarity.

Do Your Homework
Start with thorough research. Explore the firm’s website, mission, and values. Dive into recent press releases and achievements to understand what drives the firm. For example, knowing about a recent landmark case or their commitment to pro bono work can give you conversation points that set you apart.

Anticipate and Practice Questions
Prepare for common legal interview questions, such as:

Q: “Why do you want to work here?”

Q: “How do you manage competing deadlines?”

And don’t forget to use the STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, ensuring they are clear and impactful.

Tailor Responses to the Role
Match your answers to the job description. For example, if the firm values client relationship skills, mention specific examples, such as resolving disputes or improving client satisfaction. Quantify achievements where possible: “I streamlined case workflows, reducing turnaround times by 20%.”

3. Communicate with Confidence

How you say something can be as important as what you say. Clear, confident communication shows professionalism, emotional intelligence, and enthusiasm.

Speak Thoughtfully
Maintain a moderate pace, ensuring your words are easy to follow. Avoid rushing or overly rehearsed delivery, which may come across as anxious or inauthentic. Let your enthusiasm shine through tone and natural energy.

Adapt to the Conversation
Be mindful of the setting and the interviewer’s style. For example, a formal tone is often expected when interviewing with senior partners, but showing personality can help in less formal contexts.

4. Ask Thoughtful Questions

While much of the interview focuses on your answers, the questions you ask are just as important. They demonstrate your interest in the role, alignment with the firm, and commitment to long-term success.

Why Asking Questions Matters
Harvard Business Review notes that candidates who ask insightful questions leave stronger impressions and signal preparedness. Use this opportunity to assess whether the role aligns with your aspirations.

Questions to Consider

• Progression Opportunities: “What does career progression look like here?”
• Performance Metrics: “How is success measured in this role?”
• Firm’s Growth Plans: “What is the firm’s vision for the next 3–5 years?”
• Cultural Fit: “How does the team collaborate, especially in hybrid working models?”

Pro Tip: Focus on information not easily found online. For instance, ask about mentorship opportunities or the firm’s approach to work-life balance.

(for more detail on smart questions to ask in your interview, check out one of our most popular blogs here)

5. Demonstrate Ambition and Alignment

Employers value candidates who think ahead and align their goals with the firm’s vision. Show that you’re not just interested in a job but a career within their organisation.

Express Career Goals
Highlight your aspirations and how they connect to the firm’s opportunities. For example, “I’m eager to specialise in corporate law, and your mentorship programs seem like the perfect platform to develop expertise.”

Ask About Development
Inquire about training, structured feedback, and progression pathways. Example: “Does the firm offer lateral movement opportunities to broaden skills and gain cross-functional experience?”

Conclusion

Interviews are a two-way street: they allow you to showcase your skills and assess whether the firm aligns with your values and career goals. By preparing thoroughly, making a great first impression, asking thoughtful questions, and demonstrating ambition, you’ll position yourself as a standout candidate.

With January’s recruitment surge in full swing, the opportunities are vast—but so is the competition. Approach your next interview strategically, and you’ll be well on your way to sealing the deal.

About Clayton Legal

Clayton Legal has been partnering with law firms across the country since 1999 and during that time has built up an enviable reputation for trust and reliability. We have made over 5,000 placements from partners to legal executives, solicitors to paralegals, and legal IT personnel to practice managers.

If you are looking for your next career move, we can help.