When a law firm interviews applicants, these individuals are interested in a job at the law firm. They are likely looking for opportunities, a paycheck, benefits, and a chance to advance their career. In some ways, many of these applicants may be screening the law firm to see if it is a good fit for them.

Conversely, a law firm seeks prospective applicants who can contribute to the organization. Whether it’s an attorney, paralegal, or other administrative staff, the law firm is likely looking for an applicant who can support their firm.

Both Sides Should Want to Impress Each Other

There should be symmetry here in terms of the applicant looking for a good opportunity from the law firm. Additionally, the applicant should understand that the law firm expects them to make a contribution. Ultimately, symmetry requires that both sides be a good fit. Both sides should want to impress each other on some level.

When the symmetry can get out of whack is when applicants are looking to impress others — including themselves — more than their employer. Alternatively, they may be seeking the job out of self-interest rather than for the mutual benefit of their employer.

The Employment Relationship Requires Symmetry

Any attorney or paralegal must perform competent, communicative, and diligent legal services for the clients they represent. In that regard, clients arguably must rank as a high priority for applicants. Any candidate should speak authentically about wanting to help better the lives of the firm’s clients.

However,  any applicant must also have a desire to impress their employer, their boss, or whoever they report to with their performance. They must understand that the employment relationship requires symmetry, where they are also helping their employer and are there to contribute..

Be sure to ask questions during the screening process about their motives for seeking a position. Ensure that there will be symmetry in the employment relationship if you hire them. Does this applicant wish to contribute to the law firm and its clients? Or, are they primarily interested in helping themselves? If they are only interested in themselves, these candidates may be me-monsters with whom you ought to take a pass.

If you have any thoughts, feel free to share them below.