What to Expect
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Expect to meet with at least three or four attorneys – partners, general counsel and associates.
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Expect each interview to be about 30 minutes.
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Expect and be prepared to discuss everything and anything, including research papers or articles you have authored, courses you have taken, cutting edge issues in your practice area, your hobbies, etc.
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Remember that anything on your resume is fair game, as are questions about your future aspirations.
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Expect to ask meaningful questions about the firm and your practice area.
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Expect to go out to lunch with several associates that will be writing an evaluation of you.
The Players
Most applicants will see several partners, legal counsel and associates, Georgetown Law alumni or alumni from your law school or undergraduate institution. Candidates are typically paired with interviewers in their chosen practice area or with members of the organization's recruiting and hiring committee. Treat all of the individuals that you meet with equal respect – including the office support staff. Remember, all attorneys who are interviewing you are doing so because the firm values their judgment.
The Meal
The call-back schedule generally includes a meal. This is an opportunity, in a more relaxed environment, for the firm to see you as an individual with a distinct personality. The lunch hosts will be determining whether you:
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Fit into their firm or organization
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Have good interpersonal skills
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Know how to conduct yourself in a professional or social setting
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Can have a relaxed and/or substantive conversation
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Present a professional image
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Appear mature and self-confident
Do NOT drink alcohol on these lunches even if the associates drink. Keep in mind that they already have a job and you do not. While the lunch may appear on its face to be a casual social event, it is not—it is part of the job interview process and is treated accordingly. Their remarks and comments about your behavior and conversation during lunch will be reported back to the hiring committee.
Often, young associates will take you to lunch to give you the opportunity to ask questions of someone newer to the organization. Always assume that young associates (and Georgetown Law alumni) are a part of the hiring process. Maintain professionalism at all times.
