As a job seeker, you’ll find the following information helpful. The frequently asked questions will help you determine the level of assistance needed for your search and what you can expect along the way.

FAQ’s – Frequently Asked Questions

Does LegalStaff charge a fee to job seekers?

LegalStaff’s services are absolutely free to job seekers. Our fees are client-paid.

What is the process to register with LegalStaff?

The first step is to submit your resume for review. If we have a
position that matches your qualifications, an appointment will be made.
A candidate must come into our office, fill out an application,
interview with a recruiter, and take computer and written evaluations.
Also requested are 2-3 professional references that will be contacted
in the initial stages of the process. If you are challenged with time
constraints such as if you are currently working, have child care
issues or you are relocating from another area, don’t worry, we have
other options available to you. We are flexible and adaptable.

What tests do I have to take as a part of the registration process?

We will test you on Microsoft Word, WordPerfect, legal vocabulary,
legal spelling, typing and legal terminology. These are skills test
that the employers have request or in most cases required in order for
you to be presented for positions in their respective organizations.

Does LegalStaff accept test scores from other agencies?

Yes, we accept test scores that are printed out from other agencies.
We are unable to accept verbal scores because many of our clients
request copies of scores when reviewing resumes.

How much time will the registration and interview process take?

Our process takes around 1 1/2 hours to complete. For applicants
currently working, we can provide online testing and can send you the
application in advance to shorten the duration of the interview process.

How long will I have to wait before I get a job?

We cannot guarantee a specific time period. We often don't know when
we will need someone with your specific skill set until a client calls
to let us know of an opening. We will keep your file active for 6
months and you will be considered "available" until you inform us
otherwise.

How often do I need to call in my availability?

We recommend that you check in with us via phone or email at least twice a week to let us know about your availability.

If I take a temporary assignment, will LegalStaff continue to look for permanent positions for me?

Yes, if your objective is a full-time job, then that is our goal for
you. We can make arrangements for you to take extended lunches or leave
work a bit early in order to get to interviews.

Interview Preparation

Types of interviews
1. Screening Interview A member of the personnel department usually
conducts the screening interview, which is meant to weed out
unqualified candidates. Providing facts about your skills is more
important than establishing rapport. Interviewers will work from an
outline of points they want to cover, looking for inconsistencies in
your résumé and challenging your qualifications. Provide answers to
their questions, and never volunteer any additional information. That
information could work against you.
2. One-on-one Interview In a one-on-one interview, it has been
established that you have the skills and education necessary for the
position. The interviewer wants to see if you will fit in with the
company, and how your skills will complement the rest of the
department. Your goal in a one-on-one interview is to establish rapport
with the interviewer and show him or her that your qualifications will
benefit the company.
3. Stress Interview Stress interviews usually are a deliberate attempt
to see how you handle yourself. The interviewer may be sarcastic or
argumentative, or may keep you waiting. Expect this to happen, and when
it does, don't take it personally. Calmly answer each question as it
comes. Ask for clarification if you need it, and never rush into an
answer. The interviewer also may lapse into silence at some point
during the questioning. Recognize this as an attempt to unnerve you.
Sit silently until the interviewer resumes the questions. If a minute
goes by, ask if he needs clarification of your last comments.
4. Lunch Interview The same rules apply in lunch interviews as in those
held at the office. The setting may be more casual, but remember it is
a business lunch and you are being watched carefully. Use the lunch
interview to develop common ground with your interviewer. Follow his or
her lead in both selection of food and in etiquette.
5. Committee Interview Committee interviews are a common practice. You
will face several members of the company who have a say in whether you
are hired. When answering questions from several people, speak directly
to the person asking the question. It is not necessary to answer to the
group. In some committee interviews, you may be asked to demonstrate
your problem-solving skills. The committee will outline a situation and
ask you to formulate a plan that deals with the problem. You don't have
to come up with the ultimate solution. The interviewers are looking for
how you apply your knowledge and skills to a real-life situation.
6. Group Interview A group interview is usually designed to uncover the
leadership potential of prospective managers and employees who will be
dealing with the public. The front-runner candidates are gathered
together in an informal, discussion-type interview. A subject is
introduced and the interviewer will start off the discussion. The goal
of the group interview is to see how you interact with others and how
you use your knowledge and reasoning powers to win others over. If you
do well in the group interview, you can expect to be asked back for a
more extensive interview.

General Rules & Tips

Do's
1.Know the time and place of the interview and the interviewer’s full name and title.
2.Ensure that you fully understand the job description of the position for which you are interviewing.
3.Plan
to be 15 minutes early in anticipation of traffic problems or other
unanticipated delays. Also, know where you're going. If possible
acquaint yourself with the route. Late arrival for a job interview is
never excusable.
4.Dress professionally (i.e. proper business attire).
5.If presented with an application, fill it out neatly and completely.
6.Ensure to shake the interviewer's hand firmly.
7.Speak slowly and clearly. Don't rush your answers.
8.Stress accomplishments.
9.Ensure to answer every question fully and honestly.
10.Don't jump ahead or give more information than is required. Pay attention to "cutoff" cues.
11.Ensure you are consistent in your answers throughout all interviews.
12.Don't answer with a simple "yes" or "no". Explain answers where possible.
13.Avoid saying anything negative about present or previous employers or coworkers.
14.Ask questions to show interest in the Company and the position.
15.Ensure they know you are interested in the position; never close the door on an opportunity.
16.Look alert and interested at all times and look the interviewer in the eye.
17.Relax, smile and have a positive attitude. Give the appearance of energy as you walk.

Don’ts

1.Poor presentation.
2.Lack of a firm handshake.
3.Being unprepared for the interview, i.e. little or no knowledge of the company.
4.Poor expression of thoughts, including incorrect grammar.
5.Not asking questions about the job.
6."Superiority complexes" and "know it all" attitudes.
7.Indifference or lack of enthusiasm.
8.Being evasive, nervous and lacking in confidence.
9.Lack of career direction - undefined goals or purposes.
10.Candidate is too interested in compensation factors.
11.Overaggressive, overbearing or conceited behavior.
12.Speaking unfavorably of previous employers.
13.Lack of courtesy and maturity.
14.No appreciation for the value of experience.
15.Not looking the interviewer in the eye.

Closing the Interview

If you are interested in the position, ask for it, or ask for the next
interview if the situation demands. You might say something like:
"Mr./Ms. Employer, I am very impressed with what I've seen and heard
here today and am confident that I could do an excellent job in the
position you've described to me. When might you be in a position to
make an offer?" Your enthusiasm should make a favorable impression. If
you are made an offer, accept it only if you are ready. You don't have
to accept the offer on the spot. Don't be discouraged if no definite
offer is made or specific salary discussed. The interviewer will
probably want to communicate with LegalStaff first or interview more
applicants before making a decision. Thank the interviewer for his or
her time and consideration of you. If you have answered the two major
questions in his mind: a) Why are you interested in the company?; and
b) What can you offer?, you have done all you can. Resume Review
We take the time to assist you in tailoring your resume for the
position you are looking for. More often that not we know what the
client is looking for and can help you to bring those specific items
and experience to the forefront.

Directions:

5 NORTH
LA JOLLA VILLAGE DR. Exit
Right on LA JOLLA VILLAGE DR. East
Left on GENESEE AVE.
Left on EXECUTIVE SQUARE
Building on the left (City National Bank Bldg.)
5 SOUTH
5 South TO LA JOLLA VILLAGE DR. Exit
Left on LA JOLLA VILLAGE DR. East
Left on GENESEE AVE.
Left on EXECUTIVE SQUARE
Building on the left (City National Bank Bldg.)
805 NORTH
805 North to LA JOLLA VILLAGE DR.
Exit LA JOLLA VILLAGE DR.
Proceed west on LA JOLLA VILLAGE DR.
Right on GENESEE AVE.
Left on EXECUTIVE SQUARE
Building on the left (City National Bank Bldg.)
15 SOUTH
15 South to 52 West 
52 West to 805 North
805 North to LA JOLLA VILLAGE DR.
Exit LA JOLLA VILLAGE DR.
Proceed west on LA JOLLA VILLAGE DR.
Right on GENESEE AVE.
Left on EXECUTIVE SQUARE
Building on the left (City National Bank Bldg.)
8 WEST
8 west to 805 North
805 North to LA JOLLA VILLAGE DR.
Exit LA JOLLA VILLAGE DR. Westbound
Proceed west on LA JOLLA VILLAGE DR.
Right on GENESEE AVE.
Left on EXECUTIVE SQUARE