Is it Better to Interview Early or Late in the Process?

If the employer gives you the choice, should you interview early or late in the process? The Wall Street Journal notes that interviewers get fatigued by the end but also that they remember better the candidates they saw last. The column concludes if you think interviewers will get tired out by the end, then go early, but if they will be making their decision after the final interview, then go late.

So what to do if you’re not sure? If you get the choice, I vote to go early. Employers are hiring lawyers to solve specific problems and have a short list of skills they are looking for, and it’s easy for them to form favorites. Interviewers remain open-minded only if they haven’t found someone with the right combination of skills and traits. So don’t wait until the end, when interviewers have earmarked their top candidates and are ready to discount folks. It’s best to talk to your recruiter or friends at the company to figure out what the employer’s pain points are, get in the process early, and impress the interviewer with your relevant skills and ease to work with!