Interview Tips for Chambering Student

Congratulations on the completion of your legal education. Kudos for your accomplishment in reaching this wonderful milestone! I am sure most of the graduates are gearing up for their chambering/pupillage. Here are some interview tips to help you during your chambering interview. Also refer to my previous post.

We all know preparation is the key to success at any interview. Please bear in mind that the legal market is very competitive. If you are being contacted for an interview, it means that you are a potential chambering student (or also known as "chambee"). You need to do some homework if you want to get the job.

Before the Interview

• Please ensure that you know your resume well. Be honest in your CV and do not exaggerate about what you have done. 
• Read some developments in regards to legal scene or current issues.
• Equipped yourself with basic legal principles (Contract Law, Company Law, Land Law, Civil Procedure, Constitutional Law, your favourite subject depending on your desire firm)
• Research on the firm and review the job description. You wouldn't want to go to a conveyancing firm if you want to be a litigator in the future.

During the Interview

• Plan to arrive the firm 30 minutes as oppose to LeeShih's suggestion before the interview. It is because you need to fill up your particulars that has already shown in your CV .Some firms require you to do some personality test such as Zul Rafique, Raja Darryl & Loh etc. Some other firms have aptitude test for the candidates such as Rahmat Lim & Partners, Zaid Ibrahim & Co, Naqiz & Partners, Cheah Teh & Su, Wong & Partners etc. Some firm even need to do presentation-Kadir Andri & Partners. 
• Dress well. A smart casual will do. Avoid bright or flashy colours to project an image of professionalism. A decent light make up would be sufficient for female candidate.
• Start your interview by greeting the interviewer with a smile :)
• Maintain eye contact with interviewers at all times.
• Please prepare "tell me about yourself" This classic question seems very easy yet very important to leave a good impression.
• Ask your interviewer questions because it demonstrate your passion for the job opportunity. However, try to avoid the money related question because you roughly know about the market price. The employer will tell you the allowances in advance if they plan to hire you. In KL, the chambering remuneration package is ranging from 1k-3.5k. Bigger firms usually offer higher allowances. 

After the interview

• Thank the interviewer for their time. Also not forgetting the receptionist or whoever who have assisted you.
• Send them a thank you note!
• Follow up your application status

Conclusion

I understand that some big firms prefer overseas graduate. But please do not hesitate to try out even you are a local graduates like I do. Never put yourself in the position of regretting what you did not try. Quit worrying about how everything is going to turn out and make the best in your interview regardless of your background. 

Also, be confident in yourself! Stay true to yourself throughout your application process. Always follow your heart and inner voice when making decision. Nothing can be accomplished if you allow yourself to be swayed by others saying.

Even you have failed in your first few interviews, please do not discourage and keep going on. Daisaku Ikeda once said: "Do you give up the struggle to overcome your own limitations on the first attempt, or do you keep on with it, trying a second time, third time and continuing on in the challenge for the rest of your life. That's the only difference between the genius and the ordinary person."  DON'T GIVE UP. The best has yet to come.

I am starting my chambering next month! Psyched myself up with full of hope, I can't wait to see what beckons. No stress no fun! I really look forward to meet my mentor who is able to unlock my potential. NMHRK!

Do your absolute best in your pupillage

GOOD LUCK!

x

Sources: LoyarBurok, e-lawyer, jobsdb, friends