A law firm (or any organization, at that rate) with a strategy that includes pursuing a competitive advantage in the marketplace and embracing technology is one that positions itself for long-term success, as Richard Susskind states in this excerpt of “Tomorrow's Lawyers.” However, he suggests that students and new lawyers might want to ask these questions in the interview process, even to the point of suggesting they ask to see the firm's strategic plan in writing. While a lawyer with a significant book of business who is seeking a new platform might ask these provocative questions, I believe it is unrealistic for someone with little leverage to ask them, particularly in the interview process. While pointing out important factors for the observant and wise student/recent graduate to consider in choosing a potential employer, Susskind misses an opportunity to help the “aspiring lawyer” find ways to gather this information appropriately. If I could rewrite this section for him, I would consider including some of the following questions:

• Where do you see this practice in five years? What do you think are some of the factors that will influence the law in this area in the coming months/years?
• How does your firm differentiate itself from its competitors?
• How would you describe the firm's culture? Has it changed since you started here?
• If you could change one thing about your firm, what would it be?
• What is the biggest challenge your firm faces?
• If you were interviewing again as a law student, what questions do you wish you had asked during the recruitment process?
• How do you see technology impacting your practice or firm?
• Is the firm planning to grow or is it currently the right size? If growth is expected, how is the firm planning to do so?
• Are there some practices within the firm that have seen growth recently? What do you think accounts for that growth?

Susskind's important message in this section should not be ignored. Law firms are often 10 years behind their counterparts in the business world. In this ongoing challenging climate, they can't afford to be anymore.

» Susskind's Job Interview Advice for Law Students Misses Mark, Career Pros Say