Got the Interview? Now Get Your First Job

Dorcas Adekunle’s “Got the Interview? Now Get Your First Job” is an article from the magazine Minority Trial Law. This article expresses the need for a successful interview in order to land a job. 

Adekunle begins by explaining how to prepare for an interview by dividing the process into four steps:

1. Perform a self- assessment: Before your interview you should perform a self-assessment by identifying your skills, accomplishments, values, and work preferences. Adekunle notes that answers to this assessment don't have to be definite, but they should help you identify your strengths and career goals.
2. Get to know your application materials and bring copies: Adekunle stresses that it is important that you review your resume, cover letter, writing sample or other application materials that you have submitted to the interviewer. You should be prepared to answer questions about them to demonstrate engagement and enthusiasm about your work. More so, bringing copies will reflect well upon you.
3. Know your online presence: Because employers are now often reviewing candidates social media sites, it is important to keep up a professional online persona. Before an interview you should search your name on Google and see how the interview will view you, and make necessary accommodations. It may be smart to adjust your social media site's privacy settings as well.
4. Learn about the employer: Showing up at an interview well-informed about the employer shows enthusiasm about working for the firm. Adekunle says, "It will also demonstrate that you are thorough, detail-oriented, and professional-- all favorable qualities when you are representing the organization as an employee."

Adekunle's article also offers some advice on what to do during an interview:

1. Show up well-dressed and energetic: Your attire is important to your professional image, and it gives them employer an idea of how you will carry yourself within their organization. It is extremely important to arrive on time, so prepare to give yourself extra time in case there is traffic. Adekunle advises, "When you arrive at your interview, you want to have a confident, dignified, and friendly demeanor. Give a firm handshake. Try to pay attention to your body language so that you do not fidget but also do not appear to rigid or informal."
2. Communicate effectively: Answer each question fully and thoughtfully. Be articulate and interesting. Be sure to show interest in your interviewer!
3. Prepare to answer questions: Adekunle says, "Potential employers ultimately want to know the answer to one question: Why should I hire you? To help articulate your response, list three or four qualities the interviewer should know about you, and then attempt to mention them during your interview." The article also advises to review standard interview questions and prepare possible answers to these questions.
4. Prepare to ask questions: The article stresses that asking questions is a part of your "interview performance", it shows that you are interested and gives you an opportunity to learn more about the firm. Adekunle offers some sample questions to ask your interviewer:

• How would you describe the work atmosphere here?
• Tell me about supervision, mentoring, and training for associates.
• At what point are junior associates expected to specialize?
• What constitutes a billable hour?
• Do you feel that this firm values pro bono efforts?
• What do you like most about working at this organization?
• Here is the link to Adekunle's article:

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