Book Review
Book Review: INdivisible By Alison Maitland and Rebekah Steele
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he fundamental propositions in INdivisible chime completely, with the LW view, that diversity is an essential prerequisite for success of a business or organisation. Studies have repeatedly shown this link but introducing national policies or promoting diversity and inclusion through pledges and aspirations, do not turn them into a reality in the workplace. As this book explains ‘Organizations cannot find breakthrough business solutions by relying on just a few leaders at the top.’ The authors challenge us to see the big picture of inclusion; the ‘who, what, where, why and when’ and provide plenty of examples of how to structure these conversations in the workplace. As well as a coherent argument, it presents clear actions and discussion questions for senior leaders, middle managers, and individuals. When did you last sit down with your team to discuss in detail questions, such as, what’s our progress on inclusion or how is inclusion supporting our relationships with external partners? It’s conversation that many workplaces relegate to an annual survey and/or consider too time-consuming to be worthwhile. An inclusive culture cannot be imposed on others nor is it enough to attempt to act inclusively in isolation. The authors encompass many of the thoughts from practitioners on leadership in this
Are you a future consultant solicitor?
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aylor Rose MW is a top 75 legal firm, which operates one of industry’s longest established consultancy programmes. Unlike ‘virtual’ firms, it runs its traditional nationwide legal operations, in harmony with its largely remotely based network of consultants. Interestingly, the majority are experienced female legal professionals. For those unaware, a consultant solicitor often operates on a selfemployed basis but works under an umbrella firm of solicitors, providing their PII and the operational infrastructure for you to service your clients. We caught up with lead Director, Antony Jaggard to talk us through, based on his experience, who makes a good consultant solicitor. “If I was sat opposite two lawyers and one said: ‘I'm going to bill £500k a year and I’ve got all these contacts’ – and the other said: ‘I have long established clients that I have developed a good working relationship with, but I’m starting a family and I’m looking for a balance between work and home-life’ – then, subject to their chosen area of law, the person we would probably want to work with would be the person with long established clients. This, of course, comes with an element of trust. We are only interested in going into a relationship with a solicitor who is recommended, compliant with no SRA issues, someone who has experience and has qualified for at least four years.” Whilst consultancy is not for everyone, but if you would like to find out more, contact their team now to discuss your potential options and whether the switch is right for you. Their team operate on a strictly confidential basis and can go through the programme in a few minutes. ■
50 | LegalWomen
magazine, as it proposes that leaders must bring their ‘whole selves’ to work, and ensure we take into account and acknowledge people’s varied perceptions, including our own. Diversity alone does not create an inclusive workplace. It is not simply having many voices in the debate – it means making sure they are heard, understood and acted on with courtesy and consideration. The book deftly explores the interdependence between sustainability and inclusion: ‘Both require global systemic change. Both also require shifts in behavior, towards our fellow humans and towards preservation of our natural environment.’ The emphasis on sustainability is ‘a way to give greater meaning and purpose to work, providing motivation for employees and building trust with stakeholders such as customers, investors, and communities.’ Faced with such stark realities, the widest range of perspectives and ideas are required to generate better solutions. It is an accessible and well-referenced book, my favourite type, easy to read but backed up with substantial evidence and research. It captures insights with pithy phrases: ‘Without inclusion, diversity is unfulfilled potential’. ■ Coral Hill
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WHY CHOOSE US? • Earn up to 75% of what you bill; minimum earning 70% • Choose your clients, fees, hours and volume of work • Work from home, 100 days access to hot-desking facilities • PII cover up to £10 million • Free calls via our app • Access to nationwide offices and meeting rooms • Fully optimised CMS and electronic systems • Access to business development • Dedicated technical legal support "The ethos of the firm is progressive and forward thinking, always trying to benefit clients, staff and consultants. The move to Taylor Rose MW has been life enhancing." Felicity Marsden, Consultant Solicitor & Partner To find out more please email Steph & Jade at: consultantrecruitment@taylorrose.co.uk or visit our website www.consultant-solicitor.co.uk
