I'm a second year associate who is looking to switch firms. I have an interview coming up, and I anticipate that I will get a few questions about why I want to leave my current firm. I want to create the impression that my motivation for switching firms has less to do with the problems at my current firm, and more to do with my desire to join the new firm. Does anyone have any tips on handling typical questions that would arise during a lateral interview?
FWIW, I enjoy the environment at my current firm. However, I am the first associate that this firm has hired, and the partners appear way too busy to consider whether they can afford to give me a raise. My salary is way below the median in my area, and my motivation to leave is primarily due to economic reasons.
Lateral interview tips Forum
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h2go
- Posts: 168
- Joined: Sat May 30, 2015 8:38 pm
Re: Lateral interview tips
The safe response is to just say you want to work on a particular practice area that is not available at your current firm. Pick something you know the firm you are interviewing with focuses on even if you aren't THAT interested in it. It's always easier to try to switch to a different practice area once you are at a new firm after you've shown you are competent.
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CanadianWolf
- Posts: 11453
- Joined: Wed Mar 24, 2010 4:54 pm
Re: Lateral interview tips
The new firm should understand your concerns about below market pay. Your explanation sounds reasonable & level-headed.
