Most law firms approach interviews with one goal in mind: to assess whether the candidate is right for them. While that’s important, the firms that consistently secure the best talent understand that the best interviews aren’t just about evaluation—they’re about engagement.
Right now, the majority of candidates we work with aren’t actively job-seeking—they’re passive candidates, meaning they’re already in a role they’re comfortable with. If they leave, it’s not just to do the same job elsewhere—it’s because they see a genuine opportunity to advance their career in a meaningful way.
That’s why the firms who are hiring successfully right now are the ones who make the interview about the candidate, not just the job.
Why This Matters
- The best candidates leave interviews feeling inspired, not just assessed. The firms that consistently impress candidates aren’t just grilling them about their experience—they’re having meaningful conversations about their ambitions and aspirations.
- People move for career growth, not just a job change. If a candidate is leaving a comfortable role, it’s because they see a path to something better. If your interview doesn’t uncover what they’re looking for, how can you show them that your firm is the right place for them?
- An interview should build excitement. If the entire interview is focused on what you want from them, rather than what they want from their next move, they’ll leave feeling like just another applicant, rather than a professional being actively courted by a firm that sees their potential.
What You Should Be Asking Instead
- What excites you most about your work?
- Where do you want to take your career in the next few years?
- What kind of support and development would help you achieve those goals?
- What does the ‘right role’ look like for you?
These questions don’t just help you understand whether they’re the right fit—they help the candidate see that your firm is serious about supporting their career.
How This Translates to Better Hiring Outcomes
- Candidates walk away feeling valued, rather than just assessed.
- Your firm stands out from competitors who focus solely on capability.
- Engagement from the outset increases offer acceptance rates.
At Realm, we work with law firms that understand the importance of candidate experience and help them structure interview processes that don’t just evaluate talent, but actively attract it. If you’d like to discuss how to refine your hiring process to secure the best candidates, we’d be happy to help.
