UDSL Job Search Manual - University of Dayton

Tips for Successful Interviews
First Impressions
The old adage, “You only get one chance to
make a first impression” certainly holds true
when it comes to interviews. If you are dressed
inappropriately, appear unprofessional, or have
a limp handshake, you are unlikely to overcome
the initial negative impression you have created
in the mind of the interviewer. On the other
hand, if you dress like a conservative professional,
exude an air of confidence, and deliver
a firm handshake with appropriate eye contact,
you have passed your first test.
Attire
The goal is to fit in and let your personality
shine through. Be remembered for your
personality, not your clothes. It is important to
be both comfortable and fashionable.
Women should wear a conservative dark-colored
suit, preferably one with a skirt below the knee
in length. Shirt and shoes must very conservative
and jewelry and makeup should be at a
minimum. It is suggested that you do not wear
any perfume or scented lotions as many people
are allergic to scents.
Men need to wear a suit, preferably navy, black
or dark gray. A professionally cleaned and
pressed white cotton shirt is best with a conservative
tie, polished shoes, and a matching belt.
Jewelry must be at a minimum. One simple ring
and a watch is plenty. Definitely do not wear
earrings, necklaces, or powerful cologne.
Handshake & Eye Contact
A firm, confident handshake is the goal. A “limp
fish” turns off most people. On the other hand,
a knuckle-breaking shake is no good either.
Throughout the interview, be sure to maintain
adequate eye contact with the interviewer
without staring.
Confidence
It is important to show the interviewer you are
confident in your abilities, but not arrogant.
Don’t be afraid to sell the skills and attributes
you bring to the table. An interview may be
your only chance to make your case as the best
person for the job.
Preparation
Know the Firm
In order to properly prepare for an interview,
gather information about the employer such
as number of partners and associates, office
locations, practice areas, recent cases, attorney
biographies, and representative clients. Most
of this information can be found on the
firm’s website. This will enable you to speak
intelligently about the employer’s practice
during the interview and formulate appropriate
questions. This public information can be
gathered through a number of sources such as
www.lexisnexis.com/lawschools, www.westlaw.
com, NALP forms, www.martindale.com, and
other literature about the employer.
More information about an employer can be
collected from internal sources such as UDSL
alumni or classmates who currently work there
or have in the past. These sources can shed light
on things such as work environment, values,
what the employer looks for in associates,
prospects for the future, and billable hours.
Professors, local attorneys, and the CSO director
may be able to provide additional information.
Legal publications which survey new associates
can also provide valuable inside information
such as: American Lawyer, National Law Journal,
and Insider’s Guide to Law Firms.
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