Interview

How to Answer “Tell me about yourself”

  • On October 26, 2014
The most common question in an interview is “tell me about yourself” (or the close relative “walk me through your resume.”). Don’t answer this question literally! Think about why you are being asked. Interviewers want to know what you bring to the table and if you can do the job. Some guidelines to answer this question […]
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Interview

Setting Yourself up for Success for an Interview or Resume

  • On August 24, 2014
Lawyers can be zealous advocates for others, but for themselves? Not so much. One common pitfall is simply laying out what they do in the order they do it. This is dead wrong. Below are the essential steps on self-presentation in a resume or interview: Think from the perspective of the client or hiring manager. Identify […]
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Interview, Presentation

How to Tell a Good Story.

  • On August 17, 2014
Telling stores is essential when you interview, network, or make a pitch. Stories make you memorable, and you determine the impression you leave on someone. Harvard Business Review breaks down how to do it: http://blogs.hbr.org/2014/07/how-to-tell-a-great-story/!
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Interview

How to Ace Video Interviews!

  • On May 11, 2014
Can anything be more awkward than a phone interview? Yes, video interviews! I am seeing employers increasingly use Skype and FaceTime in lieu of the initial phone screen. To prep, you can learn to transcend the artificiality of the medium. Studies have shown the more likable you are, the better you network and interview (obviously). People are found […]
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Interview, Presentation

The Importance of War Stories.

  • On April 27, 2014
Why is telling war stories in a work or interview context so important? You become memorable! A recitation of your skills or facts will put people to sleep, and the key points about yourself will not stick in their minds. Stories are shorthand for what is most relevant about you. Choose stories that showcase your […]
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Interview, Presentation

How to Present Yourself Professionally.

  • On January 26, 2014
Rule #1: Don’t over-apologize! Successful lawyers inspire confidence and carry themselves with assurance at all times. If you don’t seem to value yourself, why should anyone else? An interesting piece in the New York Times by an Asian American woman professional who learned to suppress her apology reflex: http://www.nytimes.com/2014/01/19/jobs/how-to-suppress-the-apology-reflex.html.
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Interview

5 Things Your Interviewer Is Evaluating You On

  • On November 23, 2013
Do you have the right skills to do the job? Read the job description for the requisite skills. Learn everything you can about the interviewer, and consider what he/she cares about. Then tailor and practice your pitch, which should include the top 3 things you have identified to get across. Do you show passion for […]
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Attire, Interview

What do I wear for a Bay Area legal interview?

  • On August 4, 2013
Consider the type of employer, the location, and the industry. Your cheat sheet below: Firm vs. company. Law firms are generally expecting you in a suit. In-house employers, in contrast, expect to see you in business casual except maybe if they are a in conservative industry. Location. Public San Francisco companies in bricks and mortar industries may […]
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Interview

Top 5 interviewing mistakes.

  • On July 21, 2013
Avoid these top 5 interviewing mistakes! Insufficient preparation. To do well, you need to know about the role, company, and interviewer. Demonstrate this knowledge throughout the interview. Clearly articulate how you can do the job and make their lives easier. Low energy. You must project energy and enthusiasm. Have eye contact and smile often. Yes, […]
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