You’ve already put in the hard work to get your submission into tip top shape and you might think the hard job is done, once the submission document is in, but that’s just the first step. Legal directory submission interviews are a key component of the evaluation process conducted by directories such as Chambers and Partners and Legal 500. These phone or video interviews typically last around 30-45 minutes and are a chance for researchers to talk to lawyers – to gather qualitative insights about the work you’re doing, the reputation you and others in your area of law have, greater understanding of key areas of growth, as well as a chance to address questions they might have about your practice and why you should (or shouldn’t) be ranked.
If you want to make sure the key points get represented in your ranking, preparing for your legal directory interview is crucial. The interview stage is getting you that much closer to the finish line. You’ll want to make sure that the information you provide highlights your strengths and expertise and conveys the main headlines included in the submission document. The call is largely going to focus on gaining supporting evidence for the claims you’ve made in the submission, so making sure you’re ready to make your pitch is going to be vital for success.
Here are our top ten tips for really nailing the interview prep:
Understand the purpose of the interview
The researcher will use your interview to assess your suitability for ranking, based on your work highlights, client service and market reputation. Focus on your professional achievements, significant cases and the distinctive qualities that set you apart. This is not an opportunity for self promotion but it is a chance to provide substantiated information that could help a researcher understand why you should be ranked, and where. It’s also a chance to showcase the wider team and to discuss the overall department ranking. You should not only talk about other members of your department – in particular more junior colleagues to help get their name across the research desk – but consider involving them in the call as well. This can be particularly valuable as a tactic if you’re weathering departmental changes, new leadership or matters relating to succession-planning.
Review your submission
You wouldn’t walk into an exam without reviewing the material beforehand so make sure to spend some time going over your submission before the interview. Be familiar with the key headlines included in your submission and be ready to discuss your role, the main points of the matters included, and their outcomes.
Know your stuff
Understand not just your own expertise but also where your firm’s strengths lie. You need to be a knowledgeable advocate, highlighting unique selling points and where the team and key individuals sit in the market. Be clear on your contribution to the cases you’re discussing, particularly where you played a leading or decisive role. Researchers may ask for further context or clarification not included in the written submission, including your views on the wider marketplace and your field of law, as well as the plans your firm has for responding to hot topics. This is particularly relevant to those entering new and growing areas, such as FinTech and AI categories.
And don’t forget. You will know the name and contact information of the researcher who will be conducting the interview ahead of time, so it is always worth spending a little time reading their bio and finding out a bit more about them.
Anticipate questions
Be ready to demonstrate your skills and experience. Researcher questions may ask:
- What were your most significant cases in the past year and why?
- How do you stand out in your field or practice area?
- What feedback have you received from clients or peers?
- What are your views on the rankings of yourself/your firm as well as other firms and individuals?
Think about your answers to these questions in advance. They should be concise yet impactful. You want the researcher to come away from the interview with a clear idea of your competency and an understanding of the scope of the market, as well as your views on any changes on the horizon.
Highlight client feedback
Referees are a huge part of the directory submission process. In your interview it can be beneficial to mention strong, positive feedback from referees or clients. Highlight particularly important matters and client names.
Research the rankings
This one seems obvious, but familarising yourself with what the directories highlight for your practice area (such as leadership in significant cases, technical ability or client service) is a great way to anticipate the questions you could be asked. Having some commercial awareness, such as how your work compares to peers is also essential. Submission interviews are not just fact-checking exercises – they are an opportunity to shape the narrative about a lawyer’s work.
Provide context
Highlight how your work aligns with or addresses key trends or challenges in your field and, if relevant, discuss how your firm’s collective resources or reputation enhance your practice. Paint a picture of the legal world in which you work to give the researcher a comprehensive understanding of the market as a whole. By engaging in dialogue researchers gain a sense of the lawyers and firms standing in the legal market, how they compare to peers and their unique strengths or contributions to their practice area.
Prepare for the unexpected
Ask if there is any missing information in your submission (such as certain referees not participating or why some matters are confidential) and what you can do to help fill things in. If the researcher asks about any areas for improvement or market challenges you have experienced, address them constructively and offer suggestions. It’s important to handle criticism in a professional manner, and anticipating these sorts of questions can give you the opportunity to prepare a concise answer.
Keep it professional
Leading on from our previous point, maintain a respectful tone and professional demeanour throughout the interview. Avoid exaggerations or unsupported claims as researchers cross-reference your input with other sources, including referees and market feedback. But don’t be afraid to be clear and to the point. If you have something that is supported by evidence then this is your chance to really highlight it.
Follow up
A brief thank you email after the interview reinforces a positive impression and also gives you the opportunity to add information or clarifications if you feel any of the details were left unclear.
In short? Preparation really is key when it comes to directory interviews. Researchers often have limited time, so focus on delivering clear, well-structured responses that highlight your strengths and suitability for ranking. Have a note to hand with your top three key matters, notable achievements and stats. And don’t be afraid to ask questions in return. And if you need some help, you know where to find us.
