LCS Grad Fellow
Grades sometimes impact whether you get an interview; they rarely impact whether you get an offer.Erin Binns' article, "What Employers Really Value," from Student Lawyer, emphasizes that while some employers look at grades and class rank, most employers are focused on whole lot more than that. Several lawyers and recruiting directors shared the traits that are valued the most when making the decision to hire a candidate.
- Writing and research skills. You must show you are able to research, write, and analyze. Besides looking at your grades from writing classes, employers will look at participation in moot court, law journals, and writing samples.
- Good judgment. You must prove you have the ability to evaluate any given situation and make the best call at that moment, while knowing when to ask for guidance.
- Practical, creative problem solving. Everyone who goes to law school is smart enough to do the work. But the person who will be hired is the one who is able to solve problems in "creative and practical ways."
- Poise and confidence. While most people get nervous at interviews, it is important to remember to carry yourself confidently. A lawyer stated, "I like to throw tough questions out in an interview to challenge candidates--not because I care about what they say but because I care about how they react. They win me if they stay composed."
- Commitment. Regardless of whether a position you are applying for is only for a specific term, lawyers want to hear why you want to work for their firm for the foreseeable future.
- Passion. A candidate can have a passion for anything, such as running or for volunteering at animal shelters, as long as there is "fire and interest and commitment."
- Client focus. Employers do not want to hear about what the candidate wants. For example, in an interview, do not say, "I'm interested in this. I want to practice this. I'm hoping for this experience." Instead, tell the employer your plans to serve clients and to develop business.
- Genuine interest. Show how much you really want the position by researching the firm or organization you are applying to. Know a lot about the firm and tell the employer how you're prepared to contribute to it. A hiring attorney stated, "I don't want to know hwy a student wants to work in a firm like mine. I want to know why they want to work in mine."
- Moxie. Employers want you to take initiative and demonstrate you have the drive to get the job done. "Wallflowers aren't welcome."
