Interview skills are essential

Interviews can always be daunting, but even more so for Legal Nurse Consultants (LNCs). Lawyers are no-nonsense types who can sniff out a lack of preparation or bluffing. They are sharp, perceptive, and looking for someone who can function on their level, because in essence, that is what an LNC does — a counterpart who speaks and understands another language. Do not try to slip one past them; instead, follow these 7 essential interview tips and to help ace your next Legal Nurse Consultant interview.

1. Know the firm. Do your research ahead of time on exactly what kinds of cases the firm usually handles, and if you can find any, what cases they have worked in the past. Showing that you’ve done the research demonstrates that you are taking the interview seriously, and have put in some time and effort, just as your interviewers are putting in the effort to review your application and get to know you. This information will also help you tailor your answers to prove you will be the perfect fit for that specific firm. Talk about how your expertise and experience would have been applicable to a previous case.
2. Prove you are an expert in your field. The reason firms hire LNCs is to bridge the gap between the attorney’s legal knowledge and the medical expertise needed in a particular case. They need an expert, and to ace the interview, you need to portray yourself as an expert as well. Think hard on what you have done as an LNC and how that work translates into an in-depth knowledge of healthcare and the medical industry. If you find you are lacking in some area, visit this Comprehensive Guide to Professional Development for Nurses.
3. Be able to translate. Consultant — it’s right there in the title. Legal Nurse Consultants’ whole job is to break down medical-speak for those who are unfamiliar with the terminology. Prove that you can help the interviewer understand the medical world, because that is exactly what you will be required to do if you land the job.
4. Highlight your academic achievements. Being an LNC requires research, review, and critical thinking. Point to your academic achievements in LNC training, and prove that you have the insight, eye, and skills needed to weed out cases for merit and prepare reports and summaries.
5. Dress for the occasion. Of course this applies to any job interview, but be particularly conscious of your appearance when in front of attorneys. Legal types are generally fairly conservative and have a high standard of professionalism. Unfortunately, they will judge a book by its cover given how professional — or unprofessional — a candidate dresses. Meet the standards, and make appearance a non-factor.
6. Be polished and well spoken. Often LNCs will be required to act as expert witnesses in the court room. Therefore, they need to be polished, well spoken, and have the general air of an expert. For an interview, and especially for those who are not always comfortable with interviews or public speaking, this can only come from practice. Talk to yourself in front of a mirror, and be aware of your body language. Slow down your rhythm of speech, and be extra thoughtful about what you say.
7. Emphasize your ability to work well in groups. Legal nurse consultants work in litigation teams, acting as the specialized medical expert. It is essential that LNCs are able to work well in this team, as they will be an essential component. Emphasize times you have been a key member of a successful team, such as while a practicing nurse.