Going In-House - Unique Aspects Of In-house Positions, The Interview Process, The Importance Of Homework, Personality Fit
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The process of making a move in-house is complex. There is often very little information available about in-house job openings, compensation structures, and employers’ backgrounds. This is why working with a headhunter during this stage of your career has significant perks. Legal recruiters, especially those specifically catering to the in-house job market, are an invaluable resource when it comes to finding out about job openings and developing solid connections with in-house employers. Remember that your personality and experience are the keys to going in-house. Do not treat in-house interviews as you would firm interviews. Focus on making connections with your interviewers, showing a genuine interest in the company, and demonstrating how your experience can benefit them in the long run.
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Many attorneys dream about moving in-house one day, expecting 9-to-5 hours, a family-friendly environment, stability, and high income. But the reality is that in-house jobs vary just as much as firm jobs do. You may be working with a large group of people, or you may be the only junior associate in a group working with three senior attorneys. You may be making significantly more in bonus and compe…
Competition for in-house jobs is intense. A good in-house position at a known company can easily generate more than 100 resume submissions and result in 20 interviews. The top seven or eight candidates are then invited for the second round of interviews, three or four for the third round, and so forth. The further along you are in the interviewing process, the less people you will be competing wit…
Initial research is important. It helps you decide whether to leap into the in-house market, it allows you to narrow down the list of companies that may hire you, and it helps you convince the employer of your genuine interest. This is where working with a headhunter comes in handy, as he or she can point you to the right sources, tell you about the employer's background, and help you devel…
In-house employers are concerned not only about your credentials and experience, but also about your versatility, good judgment, and cultural fit. You can easily get an offer from a firm even if one of the interviewers recommends against it, but this will not happen in-house. If a single in-house interviewer does not like you, this is a death knell for your future at the company. This is because i…
You should never discuss hours and compensation during an interview. This is true even for a cushy and relaxed in-house position. Negotiations with in-house employers are less challenging if you are working with a headhunter. A good headhunter will not only negotiate on your behalf, but he or she will also ask your employers the questions you may be unwilling to ask yourself. The appropriate time …
In-house interviewing is a long, tedious process. It is also more random and less predictable than the process for firm interviewing. Your interviewers have obligations to the company, they have unexpected deadlines, and they often travel on short notice, so it is not uncommon for them to put the interviewing process on hold for weeks after having met you the first time. Be patient and do not try …
You do not want to be blindsided by what your assignments, hours, or compensation in-house actually end up being. This is why it is important to ask thoughtful questions. Although the more direct questions about lifestyle and compensation should be asked after you get an offer, you can ask more general questions about work environment, assignments, and benefits. Many candidates are so excited abou…
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