Preparing for the interview: Plan at least one day ahead. Research the firm or corporation through the internet or trade publications. Our firm provides an exclusive internet directory of almost all the companies and firms with which we do business. You can also access the Martindale-Hubbell web site and other trade journals. Our recruiters will try and provide you with as much information as possible. If you are interviewing with a firm, try to find out who they have as clients. This should give you some indication as to what the technology and work may be like. Locate and review articles about the firm or corporation in trade journals such as Lawyers Weekly or The National Law Journal. Research recent intellectual property events or cases the firm or corporation is involved in which may be used as a topic of conversation. If it is a company, look into the stock market activity. Always know exactly where the interview will be and how long it will take you to get there. Allow extra time. You should know for whom to ask; and try to obtain a comprehensive interview schedule of who you will be meeting, including their title and backgrounds, prior to the interview. The preparation before the interview will help you feel more confident and possibly assist you in "selling" your qualifications. You will appear more knowledgeable and everyone will be impressed with your diligence. Let Premier IP Staffing Consultants know whatever you need, and we will do our best to assist you in the information gathering process.

First, we suggest you arrive ten to fifteen minutes in advance for the interview and be aware of the parking situation. If for any reason you are behind schedule, stop and place a call to the recruitment coordinator or appropriate contact. We highly recommend you bring the following to any interview:

• Extra copies of your resume
• Transcripts
• *Writing sample
• Writing tablet
• References (optional)

*You should be prepared to provide a good writing sample. This gives you the opportunity to show your talent. A writing sample will sometimes determine whether or not a firm/corporation wants to proceed with the hiring process. We suggest selecting a particular writing sample that you feel best demonstrate your writing capabilities and your capacity for analyzing legal issues. Proof read it. Try to also get feedback from someone who knows what to look for in a good writing sample. A writing sample may also provide a good topic of discussion in an interview. The most important thing is to be prepared and have a good writing sample ready prior to an interview.

Candidates who have researched information and have a list of questions should also bring those along. Your goal is to prepared and organized.

Remember when it comes to an interview, the are no "Casual Fridays." It is recommended that you be as neat and organized in appearance as possible. A fresh haircut or hair that is neatly combed is a good idea. Hands and fingernails should appear to be manicured. Shoes should be shined and socks or pantyhose should blend or match well. Shirts should be pressed. If you are traveling, bring an extra shirt or blouse just in case. Take clothes directly from the cleaners with you. Always appear organized and don’t forget to check your breath. Never wear too much cologne/perfume, and if you are a smoker, be careful that your clothes do not smell like smoke.

Men: Men should wear a dark suit. Suits should be conservative in style. A blue or white shirt with a tie is best. Avoid bright colors. This is the most important time to have your clothing blend. We recommend black or brown shoes.

Women: Women should wear suits preferably with a skirt, or a simple dress with a jacket. Blouses should blend well and be conservative in nature – never low cut. Pantyhose should be a neutral color or match to the suit. Wear conservative jewelry such as pearls or diamonds. We recommend minimum makeup and avoid brightly colored lipstick or nail polish. If unsure, go for the more conservative attire. If you bring a purse, make sure it is businesslike.

Using proper etiquette is essential to your interviewing success. It is always recommend to be prompt and to appear interested in learning more about the position and company or firm. Remember the following etiquette tips below to ensure a successful interview:

• It is crucial to be on time. Start the interview off on the right foot. No-shows are inexcusable. Try not to cancel an interview at the last minute.
• Always refer to professionals by their formal names such as "Mr. Jones" or "Ms. Smith." It is only acceptable to refer to a staff member by their first name if instructed.
• Display courtesy and stand up when individuals enter an office.
• Shake hands firmly. Not too soft, and too hard can be a turn off. Ouch!!!!
• Eye contact is very important.
• Treat the staff, especially the recruitment coordinator or office manager, with respect. Many job offers have been lost because of this lack of respect to the support staff.
• Never drink alcohol on an interview unless at cocktail hour, and then only if you feel comfortable with the staff members.
• Be yourself. Do not try too hard. It is important to demonstrate your personality and style. Always be respectful and gracious.
• Never talk negatively about another firm or professional in the industry. This includes avoiding negative conversations about your present employer. Many interviewers believe that eventually you could be saying the same thing about them.
• Only discuss compensation if the interviewer asks about it. If you are asked about compensation, be prepared with a general idea of your salary requirements. Always be honest and forthright in these discussions. If you really want the job, appear to be flexible and interested in nothing more than a competitive salary.
• Have solid reasons for considering a job change. Always be prepared to give a clear and good answer to this question. Remember to avoid any negative comments, if possible, about your present employer.
• Timing: If asked what your timing is, be prepared to give an answer. Typically we suggest you decide based upon what would be best for your present employer. You don’t want to burn any bridges. Usually two weeks to a month from the acceptance date is not unreasonable. Of course, most companies or firms would like you to start as soon as possible.
• Bring a list of questions that you would like answered about the firm/company and the position responsibilities. There are several questions that may help you in making that final decision. Don’t be shy. Take the opportunity to learn more about them.
• Upon leaving thank everyone for his or her time and let everyone know you enjoyed meeting with them. At a later time, you may want to send a thank you note.
• Always return the calls from the employer even if you are not interested.