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INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

The Interview The prospect of an interview for either the vacationprogramme or articles can be nerve-wracking, but if you areprepared it can alleviate much of the stress. The selection process may differ at each organisation. Thefirst interview is usually an introduction to the firm, wheretopics for discussion may include personality and “culture fitquestions. This interview is normally conducted by one or twoHR Representatives. The second interview may be a panel interview and will have alegal focus. It is important to consider what the firm wouldfind important and prepare accordingly.

Types of Questions Interviewers ask different types of questions to assessdifferent things during an interview: Traditional questions establish a person’s career aspirations,personality traits, strengths and weaknesses Competency based questions provide insight into a persona’sability top carry out specific tasks Legal questions help the interviewer assess a candidates’ legalknowledge

Examples of Traditional Questions: Why did you choose your particular career path/field? What type of environment allows for your optimal performance? What are your major weaknesses and strengths in your currentrole? Examples of Competency Based Questions: Give an example of when you had to work on an importantdeadline and how you managed your time to meet the deadline. Describe an occasion when you had difficulties working with ateam including details of the problems and how they were caused.

Legal Questions You have almost completed your law degree and we do notexpect you to be legal experts on a particular area of law. In afew years you will become legal experts… Listen to the questions carefully before answering. If you do notunderstand the question ask the interviewer to ‘rephrase’ thequestion (attempt to answer the question). If you want to use an example to explain your answer you may doso. If you did not study a specific subject at university and you areasked a question on this area of law tell the interviewer that youdid not study that particular area of law.

What is the difference between an option and a right of firstrefusal? What is the difference between a suspensive and resolutivecondition? Can you extend the date for fulfilment of a suspensive conditionafter the date for fulfilment has expired? Stay calm and take a few minutes to think aboutyour answers.

THANK YOUTatika ScullardDateNothing in this presentation should be construed as formallegal advice from any lawyer or this firm. Readers areadvised to consult professional legal advisors for guidanceon legislation which may affect their businesses.© 2011 Werksmans Incorporated trading as WerksmansAttorneys. All rights reserved.