No matter where your in-firm interviews are, congratulations on getting this far! We have all been where you are right now, and we know that the last couple of months have not been easy. However, there is a light at the end of the tunnel and in-firm week will be over before you know it!
While the actual interviews are very similar to OCIs, the in-firm process presents new challenges for everybody. As in all things, preparation is key, and the more you know about the process, the better. With that in mind, we, the articling students, have put together some of our top tips for in-firms to help get you to the finish line!
Plan your Route
Make sure you know where you’re going, and at what time you need to be there! The days can be hectic, so doing some route planning in advance can be a huge help, and can help you feel more in control throughout those busy days.
Use your Host
Make sure to make use of your host! Each host has been through the process recently and is there as a resource to you. Everybody knows that the process can be intense, and it’s easy to get caught up over-thinking things. With that in mind, your host is there to field any questions or concerns you might have, and they also love to hear when things are going really well! You will be provided with your host’s cell phone number, so feel free to call or text him or her at any point during the process. Whether you need directions, advice, a pre-interview pep talk or a Tide-To-Go stick, your host is there and ready to help.
Stay Confident
You have all gotten this far because you are fantastic candidates, and each of you brings a lot to the table. Pat yourself on the back! Throughout the week, it is worthwhile to remind yourself that you are here for a reason. Staying confident and thinking positively makes you feel better throughout the week, and the best interviews are the ones where you are sure of yourself and who you are.
Bring the Right Provisions (and no, we don’t mean legal provisions!)
Make sure to pack lots of snacks that are easy to eat on the go! Staying fueled up and energetic is key throughout the week. Firms provide lots of food and snacks, but you are often busy talking with people and ensuring that you get to each interview on time, so it can be hard to remember to re-fuel. Other key provisions include flats or runners (sore feet suck), breath mints, gum, lip balm, and tissues. If you’re in need of any provisions, feel free to stop by the Goodmans Student Room!
Rely on Your Family and Friends
Don’t shy away from chatting with people throughout the process! Your family and friends outside of law school can be an incredibly helpful sounding board throughout the week. Describing your interview experiences to people outside the process can help you clear your head, figure out your priorities and ultimately help you make the best choice for yourself.
Take Some “Me” Time
In-firm week, while very exciting, can be incredibly exhausting. Make sure to utilize any brief moments you have during the week to engage in some form of self-care – take a breather, have a snack, sit down for a moment between interviews, or unwind at night by watching your favourite mindless TV show. Taking some time to recharge is hugely important so that you can keep up your energy and enthusiasm throughout the week.
Be Yourself
In-firm week is not just about finding a job. It’s about finding a firm at which you want to work. And no one wants to work at a place where they feel they have to pretend to be something that they are not. With that in mind, focus on which firms make you comfortable, and which firms make you feel like you could be yourself in the workplace. We all have our quirks – and the point of in-firm week is to find a place that embraces what makes you special.
Everyone at Goodmans is incredibly excited to meet you all on November 4th. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to any of us in the meantime. Good luck, and we’ll be seeing you soon!
