Law firms and in-house legal teams are increasingly using informal interviews as the first step of the hiring process. These short, open conversations help both sides understand whether there is a good fit before moving into more formal stages.
Informal interviews aren’t an easier version of a formal interview they’re a practical way to get early insight, reduce risk, and make the hiring process smoother for everyone.
Why Law Firms and Legal Teams Use Informal Interviews
- Culture and Team Fit Matter More Than Ever
Technical skills are important but so is how well someone communicates and works with the team. Informal conversations help firms get a sense of this quickly.
- They Allow for a Two-Way Conversation
Candidates want to understand workload, team culture, leadership style, development, and progression. Informal meetings create space for open, honest discussion.
- They Reduce Hiring Risk
A short conversation early on helps firms check motivation, communication style, and long-term fit before committing to a full interview process.
- They Show How Someone Communicates Naturally
Lawyers need clear, confident communication. Informal conversations show this more naturally than structured interview questions.
What Firms Look for in an Informal Interview
Even in a relaxed setting, employers are assessing:
- Career goals
- Communication style
- Cultural fit
- Ability to build rapport
- Long-term potential
How Candidates Benefit from Informal Interviews
Informal interviews help candidates just as much as employers, whether they’re actively job searching or simply exploring options.
- They Reduce Nerves and Pressure
Without a panel or strict questions, candidates usually feel more relaxed and can show their real strengths.
- They Challenge Assumptions
Many candidates have outdated ideas about certain firms or roles. A short conversation often gives a much clearer, more accurate view.
- They Help Even If You’re Not Ready to Move
Informal interviews help candidates understand the market and what’s out there, without committing to anything.
- They Help You Clarify What You Want
Talking openly about your experience and goals can help you better understand what you want from your next role.
- They Build Useful Relationships
A good informal conversation keeps you on a firm’s radar, even months before you may be ready to move.
- They Give Insight You Won’t Find Online
Websites and job descriptions can’t show team dynamics, leadership style, or day-to-day expectations. Informal chats can.
How Candidates Should Approach Informal Interviews
- Be Prepared
Relaxed doesn’t mean unprepared. Research the team, recent work, and the firm.
- Ask Through Your Recruiter
Requesting an informal chat is normal. Your recruiter can set it up professionally.
- Ask Good Questions
Focus on:
- Team culture
- Current priorities
- Management style
- Career development
- How success is measured
- Keep Your Story Clear
Be ready to explain your background, strengths, and goals in a simple, focused way.
- Treat It Like a Conversation
Be professional but natural. Listen, ask questions, and build rapport.
- Follow Up
A short, thoughtful follow-up note via your recruiter shows professionalism and interest.
Common Mistakes
- Being too casual
- Not researching the firm
- Asking only basic questions
- Talking too much
- Forgetting it’s still part of the assessment
Why Clients Benefit from Informal Interviews
Informal interviews help employers:
- Check cultural and behavioural fit early
- Avoid wasting time on misaligned candidates
- Improve candidate experience
- Create a more open, human hiring process
The result is usually better, longer-term hires who know what to expect before they join.
Contact Us
If you’d like to discuss informal interviews or the interview process, please contact hannah.collins@wearebuchanan.com