How do you build and maintain strong relationships with clients?


 Theme: Skills, Client Relationship  Role: Lawyer  Function: Legal

  Interview Question for Lawyer:  See sample answers, motivations & red flags for this common interview question. About Lawyer: Represents clients in legal proceedings and provides legal advice. This role falls within the Legal function of a firm. See other interview questions & further information for this role here

 Sample Answer 


  Example response for question delving into Skills, Client Relationship with the key points that need to be covered in an effective response. Customize this to your own experience with concrete examples and evidence

  •  Communication: Regularly communicate with clients to understand their needs and concerns. Provide timely updates on case progress and respond promptly to their inquiries. Use clear and concise language to explain legal concepts and options
  •  Trust & Confidentiality: Establish trust by maintaining confidentiality and demonstrating professionalism. Assure clients that their information will be kept confidential and only shared on a need-to-know basis. Respect their privacy and avoid any conflicts of interest
  •  Understanding Client Objectives: Take the time to understand clients' goals and objectives. Listen actively and ask relevant questions to gain a comprehensive understanding of their needs. Tailor legal strategies to align with their objectives
  •  Personalized Service: Provide personalized attention and service to clients. Treat each client as an individual and address their unique concerns. Show empathy and understanding towards their situation
  •  Responsiveness: Be responsive to clients' needs and concerns. Return phone calls and emails promptly. Demonstrate a sense of urgency in addressing their legal matters
  •  Proactive Approach: Anticipate clients' needs and provide proactive legal advice. Stay updated on changes in relevant laws and regulations that may impact their business or personal affairs. Offer solutions and recommendations before issues arise
  •  Building Rapport: Build rapport with clients by showing genuine interest in their lives and businesses. Remember personal details and refer to them in conversations. Foster a friendly and approachable demeanor
  •  Managing Expectations: Set realistic expectations with clients regarding the timeline, costs, and potential outcomes of their legal matters. Keep them informed about any potential challenges or risks that may arise
  •  Client Feedback: Seek feedback from clients to continuously improve the quality of service. Actively listen to their suggestions and concerns. Implement changes based on their feedback to enhance the client experience
  •  Long-Term Relationship: Focus on building long-term relationships with clients. Demonstrate loyalty and commitment to their best interests. Offer ongoing support and legal advice beyond the resolution of immediate issues

 Underlying Motivations 


  What the Interviewer is trying to find out about you and your experiences through this question

  •  Client management skills: Assessing ability to establish and nurture client relationships
  •  Communication skills: Evaluating effectiveness in maintaining open lines of communication
  •  Trust-building: Determining capability to build trust and credibility with clients
  •  Client satisfaction: Exploring commitment to ensuring client satisfaction and loyalty

 Potential Minefields 


  How to avoid some common minefields when answering this question in order to not raise any red flags

  •  Lack of communication skills: Inability to articulate ideas clearly or concisely
  •  Lack of empathy: Inability to understand and relate to clients' needs and concerns
  •  Poor listening skills: Interrupting or not paying attention to clients' concerns
  •  Lack of responsiveness: Not promptly addressing client inquiries or concerns
  •  Inflexibility: Resistance to adapting to clients' changing needs or preferences