In-person interviewing during Covid Forum

[Anonymous User]

I just accepted an in-person callback interview for a lateral position at a firm (satellite biglaw if that matters), and I'm wondering what to expect as so far all of my interviews have been virtual. I'd like to keep my mask on, but would it be expected that I take it off to talk?

[Prudent_Jurist]

I just accepted an in-person callback interview for a lateral position at a firm (satellite biglaw if that matters), and I'm wondering what to expect as so far all of my interviews have been virtual. I'd like to keep my mask on, but would it be expected that I take it off to talk?

I interviewed in person (for a SA position) last summer: an interview is an interview, I guess. I wore a mask into the office and only took it off when my interviewer sat across the long conference table and removed his mask. I didn't feel unsafe given the distance, though I probably would have taken it off even if he sat closer. I guess I'm a lemming who feels weird not playing social-cue Simon Says with my interviewer, which isn't exactly a virtue depending on who you ask.

But you gotta do what you feel comfortable with. I'll bet your interviewer(s) won't care assuming they even notice. And if they do care and ding you, then that's a bad look.

[Anonymous User]

My office requires masks and there’s no different expectation for interviews/talking. I’d be surprised if anyone told you to take your mask off, but if it is in the middle of anti-mask country it’s possible that no one else will be wearing one and you’d feel weird. At most I could see someone saying “you don’t have to keep that on in here.” If they actually told you to take it off I’d take that as a bad sign (just because it’s a bad way to treat an interviewee, although I personally also disagree with going maskless at this point).