Questions You Should Ask During a Paralegal Job Interview

The majority of aspiring paralegals spend a significant amount of time wondering how they’re going to answer questions asked by their interviewer. However, many paralegals find themselves avoiding one of the most important interview-prep steps – determining what questions they’re going to ask. Far too many times, an interviewee is stumped when the hiring manager asks, “So, what questions do you have for me?”

This is one of the greatest opportunities you have to set yourself apart from other candidates. By asking smart, thought-provoking questions you’re able to clearly demonstrate that you’ve performed your necessary research and are ready to take control of the conversation and gear it toward the realm of being hired. This small little step within the interview process can bring you so much closer to landing the job.

However, one of the biggest issues faced by those in this position is determining what questions to ask. Although there are literally hundreds of questions that are appropriate, the following is a sample of the best questions to ask during this phase of your interview.

Always start with your education, focusing on how you received the best online paralegal certificate program, or how your school was ranked in the top programs in the nation. As you’ll most likely have minimal experience in the legal field when applying for a paralegal position, you’ll want to showcase your education as your main value to the hiring firm.

Question #1 – What will my average day be like?

It’s not uncommon for a hiring manager to highlight the most positive and exciting elements of a job while simultaneously glossing over the more mundane tasks. By asking this question, you’re inviting the interviewer to go off script and giving you the real scoop on the position. This also gives you a greater understanding of what will be expected of you, so you won’t be surprised on your first day of work.

Question #2 – Why are you hiring for this position?

Asking why a position is open is an exciting opportunity to determining whether or not there is growth potential within the legal firm. If you find out that the person who previously held this position was promoted, then you can expect an opportunity for advancement within the firm.

Question #3 – What type of person has done great in this position in the past?

This is a slight variation to the previous question. By asking this question, it’s showcasing that you’re envisioning yourself in the position and are more than eager to adjust your work qualities and expectations to ensure success within the role. By asking about the various attributes of what made an employee successful in this role, you’re showcasing your awareness of the importance of ensuring you’re a good fit with the overall culture and expectations of the position. This is also an excellent opportunity to make a final determination as to whether or not you’d be a good fit.