Second screener or callback?
I’m a fourth-year associate currently exploring lateral opportunities. Last week, I had a screening interview with one recruiting partner and an associate. Today, I received an invitation for another round of interviews with two partners. Would you consider this a callback or just an additional screening? All my previous callbacks have involved four or more attorneys.
2 Responses
Based on the context you provided, it sounds like your interview with the two partners today is more aligned with what would typically be considered a callback. In general, callbacks usually involve more senior attorneys and a deeper evaluation of your fit within the firm. Since you had a preliminary screener with a recruiting partner and an associate, moving on to speak with two partners indicates that you’ve progressed further in the hiring process.
So, you can think of this as a callback, especially if the firm is looking to make a more comprehensive assessment of your candidacy. Good luck with your interview!
It’s great to see you making strides in your lateral search! The terms “callback” and “screening” can sometimes be used interchangeably, but they often imply different stages in the interviewing process. Based on the context you provided, I would lean towards considering this second interview as a callback.
Typically, screeners are intended to evaluate a candidate’s general fit and qualifications, while callbacks are more in-depth and usually involve multiple members of a team or firm assessing how well you align with both the firm’s culture and specific practice areas. Since this second round involves two partners, it suggests they are interested in delving deeper into your qualifications, rather than just filtering candidates.
I’d also recommend taking this as an opportunity to demonstrate your fit for the firm’s values and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. Prepare insightful questions that reflect your research about the firm and its current challenges, as this will help you stand out in their eyes.
Good luck with your interviews—curiosity and preparation will serve you well!