Published on: 02 January 2018
Last Updated on: 20 July 2024
For many people, the start of a new year is the start of new journeys in life, meaning that it’s a perfect time to make a career change to a better legal job. There are a variety of reasons a person may be interested in a better legal job: a new career could mean a variety of benefits, such as a higher salary, additional perks, and a more satisfying career and work environment. Some people may want a new change of pace in their work area of focus, while others may be interested in branching out into a new type of work. Some lawyers may be looking to make the switch from corporate law to non-profit, or vice versa. No matter what the reason or the desired new legal career, 2018 is a great time to start focusing on a better legal job and continue to move up the ladder.
Anyone looking to make a change in their legal career should strongly consider using a legal recruitment firm in order to enhance the process and increase the chances of landing the ideal legal job. Looking for a headhunter in Toronto may be somewhat daunting to someone who is unfamiliar with the territory, but that is one of the reasons that looking into a legal recruitment firm can be such a great option. If you want to move up in your career, say from an entry-level legal job to an executive, using legal and executive recruiting services streamlines the process, making it easier and less risky.
A legal recruitment firm that is knowledgeable and personalized can really make a difference in a job search that not only helps employees move up the ladder but move up the right way. Companies like hiring legal recruiters because they want their ideal candidate and the use of legal recruitment firms helps ensure that great employees are matched with their ideal employer. This is an aspect of the legal recruitment process that’s often overlooked, but shouldn’t be undersold – it’s not only important that a great company gets a great candidate; they need to be a good fit for one another. That’s where legal recruiters leverage their bird’s eye view of the industry, to facilitate good relationships.
To begin your journey to a great legal job in 2018, first, do some research as to what would be the ideal legal career change by using sites like this one to find out what types of jobs are available out there. Next, consider contacting a headhunter in Toronto in order to be matched with the employers who would best suit you. Look for a legal recruitment firm that spends time getting to know its clients, and understands their unique skills and career goals. By working on a personalized basis, the best legal recruitment firms can help match strong candidates with jobs in which they’ll truly thrive. Getting in contact with a quality headhunter in Toronto is the first step in solidifying a great legal career in 2018.
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Do you know where strategic sales are the most underrated? It is a retail store! Yet, we as consumers are also looking for a retail worker to help us out.
As someone with an aptitude for sales, and np “fancy degree” retail is the first job which you should look into. In fact, to prepare you better, let’s look at the different retail interview questions that you could ask.
...and the most loved answer!
Top Retail Interview Questions
When I asked a few retail managers, what are the few core characteristics they are looking for in terms of retail workers, they often have these keywords:
They need to be extroverted, and ready to help.
Their demeanor should be relatable & approachable to every customer.
Meticulous about which are in the store. Cluelessness is a big no-no!
Managers should be able to rely on them because retail workers work even when most of the country is celebrating. Although it can be one of the most profitable times of the year, only some are accustomed to the hectic and can deny coming and working.
Lastly, staying calm under pressure. No one deals with more customers than the folks in the service industry. Plus, you can always dress the part with the help of these interview attire for men.
Now, add subtle sales tactics to the picture, and the work could be challenging. Therefore, managers are looking for retail workers who in general do not react to will be the preferred choice.
Therefore, when you go you answer your retail interview questions!
1. Have You Used Our Product Before?
Ans. This is a common question for retail interviews, which you can expect. It is better to go for a retail store of which you have been a fan rather than one of one you have never heard of.
Begin answering with specifics. What is best about the retail store, and what products do you think are the best?
If your interviewer is friendly, you could also state ways to improve the retail experience in the store. As a customer yourself, you can always give them feedback from a customer’s point of view.
If you are not a regular shopper, there is a way to answer the question too.
Give them a genuine reason why you didn’t buy from the store as often as you would want. Plus, also give them ideas on how they can attract customers like yourself and turn them loyal.
2. What About Working During The Rush Of The Holiday?
Ans. Now this is a tricky question. Not all of us are working during the holidays, but being a part of the retail industry, you will have to.
A good way to begin is to tell how your personal strength can help you during the rush hours.
Plus, also nudge a little towards how you will have to stop working when it gets too overwhelming, and hope the other retailers work as a team and ensure someone can take up when you are too tired.
"I love feeling the energy of the people around me and thrive in fast-paced environments. Yes, I realize how crazy busy it gets during the holidays, and I remember being a shopper myself!
But I don’t get overwhelmed easily, and I can still perform duties while multitasking. And let’s be honest, holiday shopping is just fun! It is understandable why helping families would be fun."
3. How Would You Deal With A Difficult Customer?
We all know not every customer will be easy to please. Employers want to know if you can maintain professionalism, even when a situation gets tense. You know, if you ever deal with a "Karen" with whom you simply cannot reason.
Dealing with difficult customers is a normal part of the job. Therefore, preparing this answer is crucial. Here is how you can answer and show them how you are also understanding towards the customers from a humanitarian
Ans. "I would just listen to what they have to say without interrupting. Sometimes, people just need to vent and feel like someone is listening to their concerns.
Once I understood their issue, I would do my best to fix the problem, or if I couldn't, I would get them a manager who could help. The main thing is not to get all upset yourself; be calm and let them know you are there for them."
4. What Do You Think About Good Customer Service?
This is one of the classic retail interview questions. Therefore, rather than taking a trendy route, it is better to take a traditional route.
Especially if your interviewee has a few years of experience in the retail industry, show that you understand the importance of putting the customer first.
Ans. “Good customer service is about making customers feel welcomed, heard, and completely satisfied with their transaction. It’s about being friendly and open to questions, as well as willing to put in the time and effort to make sure that when a customer walks out of your store, they’re walking out happy! Return customers are happy customers!”
5. What About A Busy Day? How Can You Manage The Busy Days?
Again, these are very plausible questions that they will ask. The trick is not to feel overwhelmed by the question itself.
The chances of the retail store being busier than ever are rare. These are only a few days of the year, so, you wouldn't have to deal with it daily.
Here is a good answer to this question:
Ans. "In my last job, I worked at a big sales event for the day; as you can imagine, it was all hands on deck.
We had to work out our shifts over time, deal with stock, and make sure every customer was seen. My co-workers and I performed brilliantly that day – we exceeded our target because we all supported each other so well. During busier times, it is all about teamwork."
6. How Would You Promote A Product To A Customer?
Sales are a big part of this job, so expect these kinds of interview questions for retail!
Ans. “I would first ask the customer some questions to help me get an idea of what they are looking for. Then, I would go on to tell them about the features that the product has and how it can benefit them. It is important to know what the customer wants before you can show them products which they apparently do not need."
7. Longer Working Hours will Require More Time On Your Feet
The nature of retail work can be physically demanding; employers do not want to take a risk with anyone who may struggle.
Ans. “Yes, I know that in retail, you must be on your feet a lot, and I am okay with that. I have done things like this before, and it doesn’t bother me. I will still be able to work hard and get my job done.”
8. Why Do You Want To Work For Us?
This is your opportunity to demonstrate that you have done your research into the company & prepared yourself with the right interview skills.
Plus, you shouldn't talk about superficial things like their products or beautiful department stores.
Ans. "I like your company's commitment to customer satisfaction and quality products. Your positive work culture draws my interest as well. With my communication and sales skills, I think I would be a great fit to help you achieve your goal and push the business."
9. How Do You Prioritize Tasks When The Store Is Busy?
Multi-tasking is key in retail. Therefore, when you are asked this kind of retail interview question, you must take this chance to demonstrate how you stay organized.
Ans. "When it is really busy, I make sure to do the most time-sensitive things first. Like helping a line of customers waiting. This gives me a good idea of what I need to do as far as cleaning/stocking goes, and I adjust it day by day to the pace of the store."
10. What If Someone Asks you A Question You Have No Answer To?
No one expects you to know everything, but they want to see how you can think on your feet and remain positive.
Ans. "If I don’t know the answer to a customer’s question, I would tell them the truth and let them know I’m going to find out.
I would ask someone who has been there longer or look it up so I can give the customer the right information."
11. Tell Me About A Time You Worked Under Pressure
This is a question that will help the interviewer understand how well you handle the stress that can come with retail.
Ans. "During a previous job, we had a last-minute sale announcement, and the store was so busy. I had to use the cash register and to answer customers' questions.
Plus, watching the stock at the same time. I stayed calm and just did what I had to do & helped each customer as quickly as possible."
12. What Motivates You To Work In Retail?
Managers want to know what makes you tick, let alone in retail. Please, do not give them the idea that this is a last-minute job.
Ans. “I enjoy helping people and finding exactly what they need. I think retail is all about the customer experience, and that’s why I like it so much. It’s also fast-paced, which keeps me going!”
Plus, if you plan to pursue a marketing degree afterward, this is a good way to begin. So, do not forget to mention that.
13. What If Someone Gives A Negative Feedback About You?
Negative feedback is inevitable. The issue is whether you let it control you.
Therefore, when it comes to them, your approach should always be neutral, with an enthusiasm for solving the problem, even if you cannot solve the problem sometimes.
Ans. "I see negative feedback as a chance to make something good! I read and re-read the customers' comments and responded to them as soon as possible.
If an apology is in order, I apologize immediately (no pride here) and begin working on changing their thought of us. Stay positive & don't take it personally."
14. Ever Used A Cash Register?
If you’ve ever worked in retail before, you’ll be familiar with this. If not, don’t worry – just let them know.
Ans. “Yes, I’ve used cash registers in my last job, and I’m happy to be dealing with cash and card transactions. I pick up new systems quickly, and I’m sure I can get the hang of the register system you have here.”
"No, I have never worked on a cash register. However, I have worked in retail before, and I know how it works. Therefore, you should always get some of the
15. How Would You Deal With A Coworker With Whom You Do Not Get Along
Whenever you are asked retail interview questions like this, it is your chance to show how professional you are. Begin your answer with this:
“I'm okay with that. I pick my battles, and one person in a company isn't going to ruffle my feathers enough for me to worry.”
Teamwork is important. Your ability to work as part of a team is just as important as standing out and getting things done on your own.
Ans. "I believe in keeping direct confidence with people. If, however, there is a misunderstanding, I will clear that thing up one-on-one and professionally with my colleague. I would find a way to work together as the team's success is more important than a personal one."
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Navigating hard interview questions can be a challenge most job seekers face. Especially when these tough questions do not have a correct answer!
Knowing how to answer tricky questions while maintaining professionalism can set you apart.
Below, we break down some of the difficult interview questions asked during interviews. Then, offer strategies for crafting solid responses and outline the professional etiquette necessary to leave that long-lasting positive impression.
#Hard Question 1 - “Tell me about yourself.”
This is more of a statement than a question, but it's the opening question so many people have trouble with.
It's the simplest thing imaginable, yet people seem to need to learn how to do it. The trick here is that you don’t have to tell your entire life story; in fact, please don’t.
Stick to basic information and then cut to educational and professional qualifications, which can help you in the job role you are interviewing for.
#Hard Question 2 - “What are Your Weaknesses?”
I know that everyone says not to do this. You know be all quirky and make a witty joke! Not very ideal interview skills.
But interviewers now really appreciate quick wits!
I recently, however, did it in a big interview.
My answer to this question was:
"Since I am assuming there is a finite amount of time for each applicant, and there are many qualified applications, my biggest weakness would be running out of time to tell you how fantastic I am."
It worked, too. One of the serious ones even had a light hint of a grin on her face!
It’s a bit of a trap, but interviewers just want to know that you’re self-aware and working on it.
Nobody’s perfect, so feel free to use a real one. Just make sure it’s not a disqualifying one. For example, do not give stupid and vague answers like "I am a perfectionist, and since I always tend to give a perfect copy of my work, it affects my mental health."
Derailing mental health because of crippling OCD is a serious condition, and you shouldn't be using this to put yourself on a pedestal!
#Hard Question 3 - “How Are You Working on Your Weaknesses?”
Among the hard interview questions, weaknesses will take a good chunk of it. If you answer the previous question well, this question will inevitably come your way!
Example: “I’m trying to improve my presentation skills. I’ve been joining Toastmasters and practicing my speaking.”
“I am currently focused on improving my communication skills, particularly my public speaking. I am working on being a more persuasive speaker so that I can do well in this class and professional presentations. One area that I believe would help me be more effective is learning to use visual aids to give better presentations.”
Give detailed steps that you are taking to turn your weaknesses into strengths.
#Hard Question 4 - “Why Our Company?”
Let me get this straight! You are fooling no one by implying this is the only interview you have lined up.
This is one of the reasons why you need to be professional and do thorough research about the company who is interviewing you. It begins with tailoring your resume, and cover letter based on the company's job role.
Next, knowing about the job role and what they are looking for.
Among all the hard interview questions, this is particularly a test of how well you’ve researched the company.
Interviewers want to see genuine interest in the role and organization. First, state the company’s values, culture, or projects that match your interests and goals. Second, communicate what you can contribute to their team.
Pro Tip: Be detailed! Don’t just say, “I like the company’s mission.” Explain what specifically appeals to you about their objectives/goals and why you are passionate about what they do.
#Hard Question 5 - “Why Should We Hire You?”
This is your chance to tell them why they should take a chance on you. Share with them your top strengths that would be compatible with the job posting.
Think of it as a quick elevator pitch. (Pro interview tip: You should always have an elevator pitch about yourself ready).
As if you entered an elevator with the CEO of your dream company – 30 seconds – how would you sell yourself to him/her?
You want to make it clear that YOUR skills, experience, and confidence make you unmistakably perfect for this job or this company!
“I have been in customer service for five years and have never missed my performance goals. I’m looking forward to using my abilities in your company to help customer satisfaction.”
#Hard Question 6 - “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”
This question is to ensure two things:
Whether you are committed to the position you are getting.
Do you have the zeal to do better and strive for a promotion in the foreseeable future?
Most interviewers are trying to determine if you plan to stay with the company or are likely to leave as soon as you find a better opportunity. They also want to understand your level of ambition.
Think of how your goals would align with the position and company you’re applying for and discuss how you’d like to grow within the company.
Pro Tip: "Do not mention other roles or industries; talk about how you can progress within the company that is interviewing you."
#Hard Question 7 - “Describe a time you dealt with a difficult situation.”
Every corporation has its own difficulties to deal with. However, if this is your first job, you can very well draw conclusions from your academic challenges.
Pro Tip: They do not want to know whether you handled a team of teams and dealt with a difficult situation all by yourself. However, they will want to know whether you have the strength and resilience to deal with any difficult situation alone.
This question tests your problem-solving and stress-handling abilities. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to structure your response.
For example, pick an example from your professional life, describe the difficulty, detail what you did to address it, and emphasize the positive result.
"I had a client that was upset over something that wasn’t communicated correctly. I fixed it immediately and told the client we wouldn’t make mistakes like that going forward. Plus, I offered them certain gifts as compensation. The client was happy with the results. It just takes a little bit of hearing the other side to ensure you retain an angry customer."
#Hard Question 8 - “Can you explain the gap in your employment?”
Most people have a time in their employment history when they weren’t working for one reason or another, whether it be for personal reasons, going back to school or some other endeavor.
Therefore, these tough interview questions about gap years can make almost anyone nervous!
The best way to answer concerns over an employment gap is honestly. However, ensure to mention things you did that will show how and why you were still productive during that time.
Any courses you did, or how you upskilled yourself in this gap year, or work on projects will help strengthen your case.
Pro Tip: Keep it positive. You should be honest, but this is not an opportunity for you to vent about what annoys you at work.
#Hard Question 9 - "What motivates you?"
Your answer should be related to the position you’re applying for, so think about what you’re most excited to do at this job and why—whether it’s reaching a personal goal or being able to help other people, for example—and explain how that relates back to your role at the company.
#Hard Question 9 - “What is your greatest professional achievement?”
This question is a great chance to subtly brag about yourself, but also remember that the interviewer wants strengths relative to the position, not in general.
For example, if you are applying for a management-level position and have managed teams in the past, explain how many people you have managed, the largest team size you have led, and any notable achievements as a manager.
"I led a team who achieved an almost 20% boost in sales in just six months thanks to our new customer engagement strategy."
Pro Tip: Whenever possible - quantify. Numbers always add a layer of credibility. Plus, try to keep your face and tone professional whenever you say such a thing. It shouldn't come out like you are bragging, but at the same time, you should be proud of your achievements and not downplay it."
#Hard Question 10 - "Do you have any questions for us?"
Don’t say “no.” This is your opportunity to demonstrate that you’re genuinely interested in the position, so ask a good question — or several. Inquire about things like company culture, team dynamics, or growth opportunities within the organization.
However, save questions about salary and benefits for later in the process. Especially if you have a few interviews to crack, always ask about the salary in the final round.
Do not worry; you can always negotiate, and even if the salary is not up to the mark, you cannot always take that position.
Pro Tip: Come prepared with a list of questions to ask that demonstrates you’ve done your homework.
Here is a list of unique interview questions to ask the employer!
Professional Etiquette Tips for Interviews
Now that you know about the hard interview questions and the answers that are close to the appropriate ones, here are a few more items to remember!
1. Being Punctual is Non-Negotiable
Being punctual should be a non-negotiable when it comes to attending interviews.
Arrive on Time. It may sound simple, but arriving on time for an interview is critical. In fact, 10-15 minutes early is probably the best arrival time. However, not more than that, you wouldn't want to seem too eager or nervous.
2. Your Posture Speaks a Lot
Your non-verbal signals reveal a lot about yourself. Sit with your back straight, make eye contact, and smile with a firm handshake.
Don’t hold your arms or fidget, as the interviewer might take it wrongly as a sign of apprehension or disinterest. Instead, slightly lean forward and nod to show that you are engaged.
3. Listen – Do not Just Jump to Answering
The art of active listening is a must when giving an interview!
Allow the interviewer to complete his/her thoughts and then answer the question.
It helps you to frame your response in a better way and reflects your genuineness in the conversation.
4. Politeness is Given
Being polite also has a long way to go. Start and finish the interview by thanking your interviewer for their time. And send a follow-up thank-you email later too; to remind them how interested you are in this job.
5. Dress code
If you’re unsure what to wear, it’s better to be overdressed than underdressed.
Even if you’re not sure of the company culture, dressing a little more formally will give the impression that you take this opportunity seriously. Plus, who doesn’t look great dressed up? Look at some of the best interview attire for men.
Why a Good Cover Letter Matters as the Final Touch?
A strong cover letter for a resume can be the difference between standing out or blending in with the pile of applications. It’s your chance to showcase why you’re a perfect fit for the role beyond what’s listed in your resume.
A great cover letter adds a personal touch, offering data for your qualifications and highlighting specific achievements that match the company’s needs. Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity to demonstrate your communication skills.
Make it concise, focused, and tailored for each job. This effort shows you’re genuinely invested in the role.
Confidence is Everything!
Mastering hard interview questions and maintaining professional etiquette is essential for landing your dream job.
With the right preparation, you can confidently handle even the toughest questions.
Always remember to follow up after your interview, and don't overlook the importance of your cover letter as the final touch.
These small details will make a big difference in setting you apart from other candidates and getting you closer to that job offer.
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Making the decision to switch careers is a big one! It’s not a decision you should take lightly, which means you have probably spent a lot of time thinking it through and deciding where you want to work. But, once you have decided you want to make the switch, what comes next?
Here are some tips that will ensure your switch is as successful as possible once you’ve committed to a new career.
Work on Your Leadership Skills
No matter what career you have decided to take on, it’s a good idea to improve your business and leadership skills. It’s a great way to build more confidence before you take on a brand-new role, and it shows prospective employers that you’re serious about making the switch and sticking with it.
A few ways you can work on your business and leadership skills include:
Sign up to see an expert speak on a topic you’re passionate about
Take a class online or in-person
Get a new certification or endorsement
Take on a new project at your existing job
Work on your communication skills
Practice your leadership skills outside of work
Volunteer
Just because you think you know what new field you want to get into doesn’t mean you’ll actually like it when you get there. As you’re working on your leadership skills, you should also look for ways to put your new skills into practice in your chosen field. The best way to do that is to volunteer.
Volunteering may not pay you any money, but it’s a great way for you to experience a new field. Not only can you learn more about the specific position you’re interested in, but you may also discover other positions within the same field that you never considered. Not to mention, it’s a great way to meet people who work in the field you’re interested in. They make great references, and you never know—one of them may be able to refer you to your dream job!
Create a Timeline
Just because you have decided you want to make a career change and you know what career you want doesn’t mean you know how to make it happen. It’s especially important to get realistic about exactly how much time it’s going to take to meet your goals.
It can take a long time to find a job, and it can take even longer if you’re switching careers. Create a timeline so you can break down the switch into manageable steps. You’ll want to include any classes, degrees, or endorsements you need to get first, set aside time to create a new resume, consider how many job applications you want to fill out every week, and more.
Although you may want to make the switch sooner rather than later, it is much better to create a timeline and go slowly. Make sure you save plenty of money throughout the process so you have funds to fall back on if things don’t go according to plan.
Focus on Your Boundaries
Making the switch to a new career isn’t something you can do overnight. While you wait it out at your existing job, it’s a good idea to focus on your professional boundaries.
Just because you think you will like your new career better doesn’t mean it’s better for your overall quality of life. Think about the kinds of boundaries you want to set to ensure the transition is successful, and give them a try at your existing job. Don’t reply to emails after a certain time every night, insist on taking all of your vacations, and work on communicating your needs more clearly, just to name a few.
Manage Professional Relationships
Just because you have one foot out the door at your current job doesn’t mean you should burn bridges there before you leave. You should work on maintaining your existing professional relationships while you build new relationships with people in your new field.
For example, you’ll want to tell your boss in person when you resign rather than doing it over email. Give your job 100 percent through your very last day, and make sure those you worked with know you’re thankful for the opportunity you had to learn and grow. You never know when those old connections could come in handy!
There’s a lot more work to be done when you decide you’re ready for a new career. Follow these tips and the switch will be as painless as possible.
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