Legal Jobs in Singapore: Interview Tips for Legal Jobs

There are no shortcuts to getting a legal job in Singapore, but there are however a few secrets.

This quick guide shows you how to get the legal job you’ve always wanted.

The interview is the most important part of the process, so don't miss this guide.

So here you go!

Preparing properly before any legal job interview is crucial.

• Know where you're going so you can be on time.
• Know who will be interviewing you, name and titles.
• Review your CV, so you can talk about the whole thing then they ask.

You should also think about some possible questions you would like to ask, both about the role and about the firm or company.

• What is the culture of the firm?
• What level of supervision/mentoring exists?
• What is the extent and nature of the client base?

Fair or not, firms and companies who are hiring for legal jobs in Singapore almost always go with the candidate who makes the best first impression. You already "Wow'd" them with your CV, now you have to do the same thing, face-to-face.

• Arrive on time; punctuality is crucial.
• Relax and show off your confidence, don't shy away from your accomplishments
• Greet the interviewer with a firm handshake and a pleasantry such as “thank you for meeting with me today”.
• Do not sit down before you are offered a seat.

First impressions go a long way in any interview.

Now that you've got the easy part out of the way, it's time for the questioning.

Every interviewer in Singapore has a different style, so let the person (or people) from the firm or company take the lead. Remember, they know exactly what they're looking for for the legal job you're applying for.

Here are some questions they may ask:

• What interests you about this position?
• What previous legal job did you enjoy most and why?
• Give an example of when you showed initiative?
• What have you done to develop professionally?
• Why do you want to leave your current role?

It's important to leave on a high note, just like when you walked in for the interview.

• Thank the interviewers for their time.
• Mention something that impressed you about the role or the firm.
• If you want the role, let them know with a comment. If you're not interested, it's best to be honest.
• Ask what the next step is.

Say your goodbyes and leave the office confidently.

Afterwards, wait at least one week before contacting them directly. Or if you're working with a legal recruitment consultant, you can count on them to follow up for you.

Many employers will require a second interview, especially for high level legal positions, so get ready and gear up again!