Big Firms vs. Small Firms - Major Differences, Big Firm, Big Budget, Smaller Firm, Smaller Budget
interviewing chapter attorneys
This chapter addresses the major differences between interviewing at big and small firms. But be aware that there are many variations in interviewing styles at different firms, and many firms, especially medium-sized firms, which are not discussed here, may fall at any spot on the spectrum. This chapter provides general advice for interviewing at larger (200-plus attorneys) and smaller (50 or less attorneys) firms. After reviewing this chapter, reread How to Do Your Homework and conduct firm-specific research to determine which approach to take.
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Interviews with large firms are very predictable. During on-campus interviews, large firms are not afraid to spend money on recruiting. They often try to impress candidates by printing marketing brochures, offering refreshments to the students, and interviewing in teams of two. Callback interviews at large firms are almost always on schedule, and even if someone cancels or is running late, the rec…
Money is more of an issue for small firms than large firms. Big Law firms interview in bulk, and they do not hesitate to spend money on the interviewees—again, sometimes in bulk. During one callback interview with a large New York firm, Jason was invited for a breakfast with a couple of associates the morning before the interview. At first, he thought this was a nice touch. When he arrived …
In contrast, small firms must carefully handpick their candidates before bringing them in. The reason for this is simple—smaller firms do not have the resources necessary to bring in many people to interview. Callback interviews are expensive and time consuming. As a result, small firms screen their candidates very carefully prior to bringing them in. Additionally, students often must trave…
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