The Call-Back Interview Process

Jodie Richey, Recruiting Coordinator

Bondurant, Mixson & Elmore

Atlanta, GA

If you are fortunate enough to receive a second interview, or "call-back" interview, following an initial on-campus or interview program meeting, you are likely to feel great pressure about the do’s and don’ts and want some advice to ease your way through that phase.

Jodie Richey, from Bondurant, Mixson & Elmore, has shared an overview of procedures and tips from the Atlanta Legal Recruiters Association, that can help you to know what to expect:

Call-Back Notification

• After the attorneys return from the OCI, the hiring committee or the attorneys who interviewed on campus will review the interviewees to select students to invite to call-back interviews.
• The Recruiting Manager, Coordinator, or OCI attorney will call to inform the student of the invitation for a call-back, and a date will be coordinated for the visit.
• Your travel, food, and hotel expenses typically will be paid for by the firm - try not to abuse this privilege.
• It is important to indicate if you plan to schedule a call-back with another firm in a particular city so that the firms can arrange to split costs and agree upon interview days.
• If you have decided not to accept a call-back from a firm, it is important to let the Recruiting Manager know ASAP!
• Prior to your call-back arrival, your resume will have been circulated to all attorneys so that they will be familiar with you before the interview day.

Call-Back Interview Schedule

• Prior to your interview, the Recruiting Manager or Coordinator will ask you to indicate your practice interests so that you will meet the appropriate attorneys.
• If you request the list of interviewers ahead of time, please note that these schedules are always subject to change due to the attorneys’ unpredictable schedules.

Interview Evaluation

Generally, the evaluation of an interview will be based on the following criteria:

• Ability to do the job (i.e., work experience, communication skills, etc.).
• Motivation to do the job (i.e., preparedness, interest, work ethic, etc.).
• Personal qualities (i.e., attitude, poise, maturity, etc.).
• Commitment to the city.

General Interview Etiquette

• Do your homework on the firm and summer program. Have intelligent, concise questions prepared.
• The interviews are normally formal (although not uncomfortable), so be sure to observe interview etiquette and attire.
• Any questions that you have concerning the interview process itself should be directed to the Recruiting Manager or Coordinator. Their job is to assist you.
• Most firms like to make rolling offers, however, sometimes students are put on "hold" to compare with other candidates.
• The firm will let you know when they have made their decision.

The counselors in Legal Career Services can help you with particular questions about individual interviews for which you are preparing. Best of luck to you as you move through this exciting process!