Staffing companies see all different types of job applicants, from the inappropriately dressed to the extremely emotional to the or overly confident. While each field has a different set of guidelines, policies or rules of etiquette to follow, most hiring specialists would advise to err on the side of caution in order to avoid any blunders that could cost a professional a possible job opportunity. Here are some tips to help new legal administrative assistants avoid potential disasters during the interview process.
Prevent the case of the Rambling Man
Clarity and brevity are key components to any successful interview. While you may get thrown off by one particular question, the best way to avoid rambling on to the point of nonsense is to pause before answering. By giving yourself a moment to think about the question and your answer, you can avoid wasting their breath and the interviewer's time with meaningless filler conversation.
Leave the coffee at home
Not only should you wake up early to prepare for an interview, but you should give yourself enough time to have a balanced breakfast, including that cup of coffee. Sometimes, recruiters offer water or some sort of beverage to applicants while you're waiting for your interview, which is the only time that it would be acceptable to sip on a cup of coffee. If pressed for time, snack on a granola bar or another grab-and-go meal if they cannot wait until the interview is over.
If you don't have something nice to say...
While interviewers may inquire about your work history, they do not want to hear about your negative relationships with your former employer. No matter how you spin it, speaking ill of a past supervisor will only sound negative to the interviewer and they may wonder how you would speak of them if they hire you.
Sit up straight
Every moment counts during interviews. Make eye contact with the receptionist and the interviewers. And, sit up straight during the interview. Strong body language and eye contact implies confidence, which, in turn, will make for a more comfortable job interview.
Those who are looking to start careers in the legal field can put their best foot forward in the classroom when they enroll in the legal administrative courses in the Legal Administrative Assistant program at Vancouver Career College. For more information, fill out the form on the right.