ISSUE 1 JULY 2013
Is Commerciality Rocket Science?
What I Did Last Summer
How to spend your summer hols wisely Training Contract Applications - Getting The Basics Right How To Manage Your Time & Reduce Stress ...and much more>>>
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Editor’s Welcome W
elcome to the first issue of Into The Law, a new magazine for those pursuing a career in law.
ITL is a digital only magazine for future lawyers, available both as a desktop version and via the Apple App Store/Newsstand. As well as bringing you the serious stuff, such as invaluable careers advice from leading experts, we are also opening up the editorial doors to you, the readers, as well as some non-law types who have something useful to say. In this way, we aim to bring you a unique mix of essential advice and light-hearted content to keep you on track and to keep you sane as you navigate the waters towards a career in law. In this issue you get timely advice on training contract applications, interviews and assessment centres. We also have law student contributors bringing you some great advice on dealing with stress and law student problems. We are already working on issue 2 but would love to know what you want us to cover. Please send your suggestions to: info@legalcareersgroup.co.uk And if you want to write for the magazine and bolster you CV just send in your ideas.
Into the Law Magazine
Editor - Matt Oliver
This Issue’s Contributors Steve Weiner David Artingstall Alex Aldridge Valya Georgieva Leo Babauta Matt Oliver Paula McMullan Samantha Hope
Get in touch: info@legalcareersgroup.co.uk
We look forward to accompanying you on your journey Into The Law!
Matt Oliver Copyright © 2013 Legal Careers Group Into The Law Magazine
JULY 2013
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Contents Career Training Contract Applications – Getting The Basics Right Interview Essentials - A ‘cheeky’ look at how to ace an interview The Do’s & Don’ts Of Assessment Centres Is Commerciality Rocket Science?!
Study The Champion of Law Student Problems
Lifestyle & Wellbeing How To Manage Your Time & Reduce Stress Into The Law Magazine
JULY 2013
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Lifestyle & Wellbeing The Futility of Comparing Yourself to Others
Spotlight Interview: with Ex-Senior Partner - David Artingstall
Q&A What I DId Last Summer How to spend your summer hols wisely
Reviews Book Review 21st Century Solicitor
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Career
Training Contract Applications – Getting The Basics Right by Matt Oliver
So, all your preparation has been done and your application schedule is written. You’ve researched the firms inside out and know which ones you want to apply for and when you need to do it. It’s finally time to start putting pen to paper and pushing forward with the practicalities of writing your applications.
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Training Contract Applications – Getting The Basics Right
As you may well be aware, different firms will be using different application methods. Some will require application forms, whilst others will ask for CVs and covering letters. Regardless of the method, there are several key tips to bear in mind to ensure that you are optimising your chances of success: 1) Stick to the rules Applying for training contracts is a time consuming exercise. Don’t waste your precious time on applications that are set to fail, either because you don’t meet the minimum requirements or because you ignore the guidelines they give. Use the careers section of the firm’s website to gather the information on what they want to see and how they want to see it.
...competency answers should only be duplicated across applications if the firms are asking for EXACTLY the same thing
If they ask for a two page CV, then submitting a three page document is a sure-fire way to end up on the Key ‘reject’ pile.
All that said, if you don’t meet the minimum requirements but would really like to work at the firm, it can still be worth contacting them. Explain your circumstances, particularly what else you have done which might make up for you not meeting the minimum requirements, and ask if they would consider your application. 2) Make it easy to read Recruiters have A LOT of applications to read through. They will prioritise those that they believe are easier to read and digest, so making yours as presentable as possible is going to make them want to review it. CVs should make good use of white space on the page. Application form answers should be well structured and formed of clear and concise sentences. Qualifications and work experience should be listed in a relevant order so that recruiters are not having to trawl through the information to find what they need.
Tips
1. Stick To The Rules 2. Make It Easy To Read 3. Tailor Your Application 4. Be Memorable 5. Check, Check & Check Again
3) Tailor your application As tempting as it may seem, firing off the same CV and covering letter to every firm will not get you lots of interviews. Similarly, competency answers should only be duplicated across applications if the firms are asking for EXACTLY the same thing. A mere word change may mean you need to rethink your answer from scratch.
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Training Contract Applications – Getting The Basics Right
I’m not talking about delivering your application form via a troop of dancing horses. Instead, take time to think about your Unique Selling Point... Be aware of the key competencies that individual firms are looking for and be sure to get across the reasons why you have selected to apply for them. Use the knowledge you have gained from websites, brochures, open days and any other contact you have had. 4) Be memorable Even a 1st class honours graduate with direct commercial experience will have problems standing out in the current competitive market place. After reading through thousands of applications the recruiter needs to be able to recall which candidate you are. But remember – these are serious professional firms. I’m not talking about delivering your application form via a troop of dancing horses. Instead, take time to think about your Unique Selling Point and what separates you from your competitors. It may be work or business related, or it may relate to an extra-curricular experience you have mentioned. But aim to be different. 5) Check, check & check again It is essential that your application is mistake free. In the legal profession, where so much importance is placed on attention to detail, an application which contains grammatical errors and spelling mistakes will not be appreciated. Even one mistake is one too many. So after you have proof read your final application, pass it on to at least one other person to do the same. And finally, before you submit your application, make sure you keep a copy. Keep a paper file or online folder containing copies of all the applications you make. Fingers crossed, you will soon be receiving news of interviews and there is no better way to prepare for interview than to re-read the initial application that you sent through.
Into The Law Magazine
JULY 2013
About Matt Oliver
Matt is a former FTSE 100 in-house lawyer, editor of Into The Law magazine and MD of the law careers website, Trainee Solicitor Surgery. He provides entry level law careers advice to students and graduates through his writing and mentoring. Get a FREE copy of Matt’s guide to succeeding with applications and at interview >>>
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Your essential guide to securing a training contract, vacation scheme or paralegal role
trainee solicitor surgery www.traineesolicitorsurgery.co.uk
Career
Interview Essentials: A ‘cheeky’ look at how to ace an interview By Alex Aldridge
I found myself In a curry house with a bunch of associate solicitors - we ended up having a wine-fuelled discussion about what not to do in a training contract interview. Diligent as ever, I wrote notes – see next page:
Into The Law Magazine
JULY 2013
About Alex Aldridge Alex is editor of the legal news and gossip website Legal Cheek www.legalcheek.com
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Interview Essentials
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Visit www.legalcheek.com
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Career
The Do’s & Don’ts Of Assessment Centres by Matt Oliver
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ssessment centres continue to become more popular with law firms, with some even using them for paralegal recruitment. There are some critical do’s and don’ts you need to know about. Performing Well At Assessment Centres An invitation to an assessment centre is, without doubt, a very positive step forward. Your initial application has been read and the firm is keen to find out more about you. However, your training contract is far from ‘in the bag’. It is therefore worth focusing on some of the Do’s and Don’ts that are going to help you perform well on the day.
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The Do’s & Don’ts Of Assessment Centres
DO’s DO gather as much information as possible about the day and what it involves. Sounds obvious, but knowledge really is power. If the firm hasn’t provided you detailed information on the schedule for the day or, if there is something you want to find out more about, then there is nothing wrong with phoning them up and asking. The very worst that can do is make you look keen and enthusiastic and it will help you focus your preparation on what really matters.
DO spend time preparing for each and every test and exercise. It’s not all about the interview. You need to make sure you are performing to the best of your abilities in each and every test and exercise. Like most activities, it’s a case of ‘practice makes perfect’ so spend time familiarising yourself with and, if possible, practising examples.
Not only will this help you complete your tasks better on the day but it will increase your confidence going into the assessment centre. For the more subjective assessments, such as the group exercise and the interview, it is crucial that you re-familiarise yourself with the values and competencies that the firm are looking for, and be sure to bring these out throughout the day.
DO show courtesy to everyone you meet Big Brother is watching you. It’s not just the interviewers and assessors who will be making notes on your interactions. Remember that everyone you meet – from the receptionist who greets you when you walk through the door to the trainee that sits next to you during your lunch break – may well be asked their opinion on how you came across. Into The Law Magazine
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The Do’s & Don’ts Of Assessment Centres
Don’t try to be the person that you think they are looking for – just be you. You were invited to the assessment centre because they liked your application....
Courtesy should stretch to your fellow candidates as well. They may well be your competitors for the job but being affable towards them will not only help you make a more positive impact, but it will help you genuinely enjoy the day more.
DO be prepared to ask questions Most assessment centres will provide you with at least one opportunity, aside from the actual interview, to ask questions to current members of staff. This may be following a firm presentation or it may be during lunch or a break-out session. It is advisable to prepare a few intelligent questions that you can ask at such points, in order to show enthusiasm and to be memorable. Make sure you’ve done thorough research on the firm beforehand so that your questions are appropriate. You may want to ask about aspects of their training programme, for example, or a question relating to their legal specialisms. Always be sure to ask questions that you wouldn’t be able to find out the answer to yourself by doing your own research.
DO be yourself and try to have fun Easier said than done, perhaps, but view the day as a wonderful opportunity. And the best way to make the most of this opportunity really is to relax, to be yourself and try to enjoy the experience. Take in everything around you and be excited by the opportunity to discover more about the firm. Don’t try to be the person that you think they are looking for – just be you. You were invited to the assessment centre because they liked your application and believe you may have something to offer them so be true to yourself throughout the day.
Into The Law Magazine
JULY 2013
DO’s DO gather as much information as possible about the day and what it involves. DO spend time preparing for each and every test and exercise. DO show courtesy to everyone you meet DO be prepared to ask questions DO be yourself and try to have fun
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The Do’s & Don’ts Of Assessment Centres
There will be nothing more off-putting to the assessors than a candidate who fails to let his or her peers speak or who bulldozes other opinions.
DON’Ts DON’T be over-dominant It is a complete fallacy that the person who talks the most always gets recruited. The assessors will be looking to see evidence of much more subtle skills throughout the day. That doesn’t mean, of course, that the better alternative is to say nothing at all. It really is all about balance here. Do enough to get yourself noticed, but not at the expense of other candidates. There will be nothing more off-putting to the assessors than a candidate who fails to let his or her peers speak or who bulldozes other opinions. It is far better to embrace team values than to show arrogance and a lack of social-awareness.
DON’T stand out for the wrong reason Granted, you want to stand out. It can be pretty hard going for the assessors to remember exactly who was who at the end of a long day. You need them to be able to remember who you were. But make it be because of an intelligent comment, a good performance or a genuinely likeable personality. Don’t be the person who is remembered because you turned up late, because you were dressed inappropriately, or because you disregarded other people’s contributions. Into The Law Magazine
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The Do’s & Don’ts Of Assessment Centres
Don’t be the person who is remembered because you turned up late, because you were dressed inappropriately, or because you disregarded other people’s contributions.
DON’T panic if an exercise goes pear-shaped Of course, the ideal is to perform well in every aspect of the assessment centre. But things don’t always go to plan and that doesn’t mean that it’s game-over. You’ve got this far and giving up is not an option. Strive to do better in your next exercise – use it as a motivator and keep going. Stay calm and career on!
DON’T over-analyse your performance throughout the day Following on from this, so often we are our harshest critics – we remember the things we did badly and not the things we did well. This gives us a distorted picture of how the event is going and this is not a helpful mind-set to adopt throughout the day. Avoid creating a negative focus and over thinking what you have done wrong. Leave the analysis until after the event. Over the days following the assessment centre write a list of things that went well, things that didn’t and what you would do differently next time. Use it to perfect your future performances. Hopefully you won’t need to attend any more assessment centres after your next one though!
DON’Ts DON’T be overconfident DON’T stand out for the wrong reason DON’T panic if an exercise goes pear-shaped DON’T overanalyse your performance throughout the day
About Matt Oliver Matt is a former FTSE 100 in-house lawyer, editor of Into The Law magazine and MD of the law careers website, Trainee Solicitor Surgery.
He provides entry level law careers advice to students and graduates through his writing and mentoring. Get a FREE copy of Matt’s guide to succeeding with applications and at interview >>>
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Career
Is Commerciality Rocket Science?! by Steve Weiner
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You’re about to go into a commercial law firm for an interview for either a training contract or a vacation scheme; You know or you’ve been told that you will need to display a sense of ‘commerciality’ when discussing your future career with those who might be able to give you a contract or a place on the aforementioned scheme; You are worried – after all, what the hell is commerciality? You have been frantically reading the Financial Times in the hope that this might ease your nerves; You sweat a little at the thought of the inevitable question, ‘what do you think commerciality is?’...
Think of yourself as a car. Your engine is the law, it powers everything you do. Your steering wheel is business, it guides everything you do.
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Is Commerciality Rocket Science?!
First step on the ladder to commercial success: Stop worrying. Second step on the ladder to commercial success: Stop reading the FT out of guilt/ worry.
student or career changer applying for a legal job or a position in a commercial law firm to show your commerciality? You should be thinking about how to answer these questions: 1. Why do you want to work in business?
Third step on the ladder to commercial success: take some time to think about what it is you are about to do.
2. What is it exactly that commercial lawyers do that suits your interests and abilities? 3. What have you done in You have chosen a career in the past and business. Not in the media, the arts or what do you intend to do in in medicine. the future that shows a real ‘Think about what?!’, you might ask, interest in business (not just law)? ‘I need to get busy preparing, not Let’s answer these questions in turn: thinking about preparing!’. Wrong. Sure, preparation is vital in almost every facet Question (1): A career in business? of professional life – and commerciality is no exception – but prepare in the Commerciality at your level is simply wrong way or fail to prepare before about showing hunger and drive for commencing your preparation, and you the career you are choosing. You have are preparing to fail. Simple. chosen a career in business. Not in the media, the arts or in medicine. What should you be thinking about as a
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Is Commerciality Rocket Science?!
In business – pure and simple. You might be practising as a solicitor, but you are helping others to do business. In fact, as a junior commercial lawyer, your commercial goals are relatively simple: For external clients (i.e. the people that pay the fees): remove and/or provide solutions for any legal obstacles that might prevent your clients from doing business. To do this, you need to make it your business to understand their business and the environment that moulds their business. It is important to focus on a commercial approach when providing a service...
Think of yourself as a car. Your engine is the law, it powers everything you do. Your steering wheel is business, it guides everything you do. Your chassis is your brand as you work, it leaves everyone with an impression of you (slick or ugly) and ensures or undermines your success. If you have a clever idea, think of the business ramifications before you open your mouth and talk about it.
For internal clients (i.e. the people you work with and need to impress every day in your firm): make it your business to understand how every piece of work you undertake and every interaction you have impacts on the bigger picture (the deal, the matter or the If you are not transaction...) to provide passionate a service of excellence to everyone you about how work with.
Question (2): How are you suited to commercial law?
Does money (not earning but working money affects Everything you do as a with it) excite you? If society at large, lawyer in a commercial you are not passionate law firm is done for commercial about how money business reasons. You’re affects society at law isn’t for you. not in law school any large, commercial more. Telling someone law isn’t for you. about a Supreme Especially if you Court case decision is haven’t considered interesting but irrelevant the sacrifices you’ll have to make for unless it has a tangible effect on the success in the profession. Commercial work you and your colleagues might do. clients, especially large companies,
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Is Commerciality Rocket Science?!
expect advice whenever they want it. This means your senior colleagues will expect your help whenever they want it too. This means you probably won’t be leaving at 6pm much. You won’t be watching the One Show (maybe that’s a blessing). And the successful junior commercial lawyer shows enthusiasm for every aspect of the job, even the duff bits late at night that make you question your own metaphysical existence. Being a commercial lawyer can, if you give it your all, be a highly rewarding and intellectually satisfying job. Resent the demands placed upon you and you’ll be miserable. It’s a lifestyle choice. But it is a choice. Question (3): What are you doing to show you are ‘commercial’?
or macro issues that affect business that will impress. To form opinions, try doing the following: • Read a broadsheet newspaper every day – cover to cover. Being commercial doesn’t just mean talking about business and/or commerce. You’ll need to show an interest in events that shape the world as well (from the latest Cabinet re-shuffle to Iranian foreign policy) - so you’re not a one-dimensional dullard. By the way, the Daily Mail doesn’t count... • Read The Lawyer, rollonfriday and Legal Week every week – watch out for your preferred firms! • Chat to friends once a month who work in other industries to understand subtle trends and challenges – very impressive to raise these in interview or on a scheme!
Some might tell you that commerciality or commercial awareness is something you acquire after practising or being in business for a significant period of time. Others You’ll need to (likely to be more uptight as human show an interest beings) will tell you in events that that commerciality is shape the world about having a specific as well (from the knowledge set – beinglatest Cabinet reup-to-date with the markets, and having shuffle to Iranian an almost intimate foreign policy) understanding of the so you’re not economic variables a onethat affect the way dimensional lawyers and business people act and work. dullard. At your stage, both these assertions are incorrect. You’re intending to be a lawyer and not an economist. As such, it’s opinions on bigger
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• Read Private Eye twice a month for a more acerbic look at business and current affairs • Read The Week if you have been out of the country for some time – a great way to catch up if you’ve missed a lot without trawling through back-copies of the newspaper. And finally...
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Is Commerciality Rocket Science?!
Excel – train yourself up to be an excel guru and volunteer your expertise when you get into a firm. Your senior colleagues won’t have a clue how to use it. Big brownie points available if you can use complex formulae. PowerPoint – do the same – volunteer to take control of slide presentations. Look – be as formally dressed and turned out as possible to look commercial. Don’t make any statements with clothes (short skirts, socks, ties, cufflinks etc...). Be recognised for your brain and not your look. Be ready to be taken to a meeting at a moment’s notice. What about the Financial Times (FT)? It has two main purposes:
About Steve Weiner
a) A useful but pretentious way to show off your financial ‘sophistication’ to others on public transport (if you complete the FT crossword in front of others, extra kudos points are available). b) A rather long-winded and unnecessarily turgidly-written briefing online tool for those who work in business who need to find out how money moulds their landscape daily. The FT is quite boring (it’s even pink to try to make it look a little bit more ‘interesting’). Given that you need to acquire only a macro and not a micro-economic knowledge as a lawyer, there are only a few bits and bobs in the FT that are of any use to you (bits you can probably find in your daily broadsheet, albeit written with slightly more polemic). You should aim to ‘read’ the FT three times per week. Here is our very short, pragmatic guide to ‘skim- reading’ the FT: 1. Read the companies and markets section – read this first (and possibly last if you are pushed for time). 2. Read the Lex colum – It is on the back page of the main section, it’s written by the FT’s bright young things, it is read by chief executives, bankers and lawyers and it’s a great way of detecting the trading patterns of companies. And stop...
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Steve previously worked as a solicitor in a City firm before leaving practice to work as a skills trainer and a business coach in a number of leading City law firms. Steve is also an award-winning stand-up comic, has performed in comedy clubs all around the UK and is a TV actor, radio presenter and an accomplished comedy writer. Visit: steveweinerconsulting.com
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Study
The Champion of Law Student Problems
In what may prove to be one of the scoops of the summer, we are delighted to announce we have signed up a true social media sensation to the Into The Law team. If you don’t yet know about the “Law Student Problems” Twitter account, then you don’t know what you’ve been missing....
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Study
@lawvicissitudes The Twitter account “Law Student Problems” (found at @lawvicissitudes) was started in February of this year and at the time of writing the anonymous tweeter behind it has sent just over 500 tweets but has amassed close to 13,000 followers. Here is what LSP says about why he started the account and the journey so far:
I always joked with my course mates about the trials and tribulations of being a law student. One day, I noticed that there wasn’t any Law Student Problems twitter account in the UK. I saw a definite gap in the Twitter-sphere and hoped to fill it. I am amazed by how many followers have come my way, and it’s such a relief to know that us law students are not alone in our hate of Factortame and love of Lord Denning. Taking a quick browse through the followers it is no surprise to see a large number of law students at all the different stages of legal study. What is also interesting, however, is how he’s hit a nerve with qualified lawyers who are also following in their droves, some from as far away as Australia. There is even the odd QC following along! At a time where there is a lot of doom and gloom around for law students its important to find some laughs and not take things too seriously all the time. We are as excited as anyone to see what Law Student Problems comes out with in future issues. For now though, lets feast on some of his classic tweets to date.
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Law Student Problems
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Law Student Problems
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Law Student Problems
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Law Student Problems
About Mr “Law Student Problems” Having recently graduated with a 2:1 from a good university he is now seeking a training contract. He has also clearly decided to have some fun along what is a particularly gruelling road at the moment. Should any grad recruiters be reading who value personality in their trainees do drop us a line at info@legalcareersgroup.co.uk and we’ll put the two of you in touch. Follow @lawvicissitudes on Twitter >>> Into The Law Magazine
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Lifestyle & Wellbeing
How To Manage Your Time & Reduce Stress by Valya Georgieva
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How To Manage Your Time & Reduce Stress
Stress... A little nasty thing that is. Once it gets stuck into our minds, it is really difficult to get rid of it. We cannot sleep. We don’t want to sleep. We stay up late. We try to do work. We try to do more than one thing at a time. We get more stressed. How long until the red light starts beeping and we really realise enough is enough?
We cannot sleep. We don’t want to sleep. We stay up late. We try to do work. We try to do more than one thing at a time. We get more stressed.
Life is full of hassles, deadlines, frustrations, and demands. For some of us this has caused stress to become a way of life. And I’m not saying stress is always a bad thing. Personally I often deliver the best results when working under pressure. But as much as I love challenges and as much as challenges sustain my life more than anything, even I have some limits as to how much I can cope with before I break down. For me, the biggest cause of stress has been lack of time. Or having too many things on at the same time, which is practically the same thing. And whilst there are other causes of stress, such as unhealthy lifestyle, conflicts at the workplace/home, major life changes, financial difficulties etc, I will concentrate on lack of time. Being a law student is difficult. Trying to juggle work, dissertation, training contract applications, and other commitments is challenging and demanding. I sometimes wonder how long until smoke starts coming out of my brain. Whilst unfortunately we cannot manage time, we can manage ourselves in order to achieve our personal and professional objectives with less frustration and stress. The following small things have helped me achieve this to some extent at least: 1. Get organised I know this sounds easier said than done, but the reality is it really helps. Whether this means tidying up your desk, using a filing system, using a diary or just making a daily to-do list – it really does save your time of trying to find pieces of paper or trying to find out when your next deadline is. It also reduces stress. This of course depends on what kind of person you are and what works best for you.
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How To Manage Your Time & Reduce Stress
Personally, I had sheets of paper, articles, highlighters and books all over the place when I was writing my first dissertation draft. For some reason this helped me concentrate better. As well as sitting on the floor whilst working surrounded by all the pieces of paper. I know this sounds ridiculous – you should have seen what a funny/ miserable picture I was. What saved me was my highlighting system. I really wouldn’t have been able to find my way around articles I’ve read was it not for the different highlighters I used for different things. Another thing that saved me was my diary. There is no way on earth I would have been able to remember all of my deadlines or commitments was it not for my diary! 2. Be conscious of time I know this is an obvious one but really do make sure you keep an eye on the date and time. Sometimes I get so self-absorbed in my work that I completely lose track of what day or date it is, let alone the hour. Being conscious of time and how long exactly you have until your next deadline can really help you avoid some last-minute panic attacks! 3. Prioritise Know your priorities. Use categories for each task and create a list based on those categories. Some things should certainly come to the top of your list because of their importance, whilst others can be chucked right to the bottom. I usually use four categories • High Importance, High Urgency – This is something which needs to be done quite quickly and has a long-term impact on my work. It is usually quite time-consuming. I would try to dedicate the required time to such a task free from other distractions if possible. I would usually deal with less important urgent tasks first; • High Importance, Low Urgency – This is time-consuming but no immediate output is required. I would usually deal such a task last; • Low Importance, High Urgency – This requires speed but should not be too time-consuming. I would usually start with such tasks so that I could quickly tick them off my list; • Low Importance, Low Urgency – I will usually chuck this one right to the bottom of the list and deal with it when and as I have time. 1 Future Solicitor Magazine MARCH 2013 Into The Law Magazine JULY 2013
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How To Manage Your Time & Reduce Stress
Although I sometimes wish I was superhuman, I have not as of yet found a way to do more than one important thing at once.
4. Set realistic deadlines Whenever you can set your own deadlines, do this realistically. This is very important because it will help you reduce stress and disappointment when you do not manage to deal with a task before your deadline. Make sure you estimate how long the task should take and if possible, give yourself some extra time to be on the safe side. Personally, I often make plans to do too many things in one day and then get extremely stressed when I do not manage to tick them all off my list. I have recently become more aware of how much I can do in a day so I try to set the right limits to avoid disappointment. 5. Concentrate on a limited number of tasks The thing that causes me the most of stress is having more than one thing to do at once. This happens all too often and whenever it does, thinking of everything else at once can be very distracting. Although I sometimes wish I was superhuman, I have not as of yet found a way to do more than one important thing at once. Thinking about everything else I have on whilst trying to do one thing only slows me down. I have now learnt to ignore everything else and concentrate on the thing I am doing here and now. Once I have finished it, I can then move on to the next one. 6. Take breaks I am not the best person to teach you about this because when I am under pressure I often try to work for long hours without taking a break until I have finished my tasks for the day. My sister always tells me that this is counter-productive because the more tired I get the less able I am to concentrate and hence the less work I can do. Whenever I have listened to her and tried to take breaks and do something else, I find it much more easier to concentrate on my work once I return to it. I don’t do that very often though – don’t ask why. If you are a bit less stubborn, maybe you will make a better use of this advice. 7. Don’t be too harsh on yourself Yet again, whoever knows me will confirm – I am usually extremely harsh on myself. Benefits of this I have found none so far. So don’t do it!
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How To Manage Your Time & Reduce Stress
8. Be ruthless with time and gracious with people Last but not least – stay focused on the task at hand and what you need to do to complete it, including managing your interactions with others. Sometimes life throws things at us that we have to work hard on if we want to succeed. Sometimes that would mean limiting your social interactions. Some people won’t understand you and will stop talking to you after you refuse to go out a couple of times. Maybe it is during stressful times that we get to realise who our real friends are. Whatever you do, never be rude to people. Stress can sometimes cause you to be extremely miserable. But it won’t always be like that and once you achieve your objective and once you are able to breathe again, it will be really nice to have some friends left. 9. Get some sleep The last thing I will advise is to get some sleep. I spent quite a few sleepless nights over the last few months and to be honest I don’t feel too great right now. Once you lose your night’s sleep, it is really difficult to catch up with it. And believe you me, the less you sleep, the more you get stressed. That’s how the human body works unfortunately…. Give it a try! Managing stress can be really difficult when we realise there aren’t enough hours in the day. Give some of the tips above a try and it might just help.
About Valya Georgieva Valya Georgieva is a recent first class law graduate who is currently seeking a training contract with a medium to large corporate/commercial practice. Valya blogs at www.lawesomemoirs.wordpress.com and plans to continue to blog about her search for a training contract, together with the challenges she faces whilst working full time and studying the LPC part time. You can also find her on Twitter @ValiBG >>> Future Magazine JULY MARCH Into TheSolicitor Law Magazine 2013 2013
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Lifestyle & Wellbeing
The Futility of Comparing Yourself to Others By Leo Babauta
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The Futility Of Comparing Yourself To Others
[Ed: I hear students and graduates continually comparing themselves to others - this guest article will hopefully give some perspective] One of the biggest reasons we’re not content with ourselves and our lives is that we compare ourselves to other people. Picture it: you see photos of what someone else is doing on Facebook and think your life isn’t exciting enough. You see someone else who has landed a great job and think your career is going nowhere. You see someone with a 'better' body, and feel bad about yours. You read about people who are traveling the world, learning languages, going to exotic resorts and restaurants, and wonder why you’re not. Of course, you’re comparing your reality to an ideal, a fantasy. It’s not a comparison that makes sense. You can’t compare apples to apples when you compare yourself to anyone else. Which means it’s a dumb comparison — why would you compare how tangy an orange is compared to a beach? They’re not similar things. Let’s take an example: I’m out running in the park, and I see someone running past me. Obviously he’s a faster runner, and better than me! Oh, that makes me feel horrible about myself as a runner! Except I can’t compare myself to that faster runner, because I don’t have all the information.
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The Futility of Comparing Yourself To Others
I don’t know:
➡ ➡ ➡ ➡ ➡ ➡ ➡ ➡
how far they’re running (I might be running 12 miles and they’re running 2) where they are in their training plan (I might be starting out on my plan, while they’re in week 20) where they are in their particular run (I might be warming up, while they’re at the hardest part of their workout) how many years they’ve been running (maybe I’ve only started, and they’ve been running for 15 years) their injury status (maybe I recently injured an ankle while they’re not injured) what event they’re training for (maybe they are training for a mile race, or a bike race, and I’m training for a 50-mile race) what else is going on in their lives (maybe they have nothing else going on, while I’ve been working hard, socializing, and moving to a new house and getting little sleep) what motivates them (maybe I just like the peace of running mindfully, while they want to beat everyone else on the path)
Given these and a bunch of other factors I don’t know anything about, why would I compare my speed at this moment with the speed of another runner? They’re irrelevant to each other. We just happen to be both running on the same path at the same time, but that’s coincidence, and nothing else is the same. And even if everything else were exactly the same (would never happen), how would the comparison be useful? It would be meaningless even then. The only thing I should focus on, as a runner, is myself. Enjoy the run. Learn about myself as I run. Keep going, and in doing so, I’ll get better — compared to myself. And that’s the only thing we should focus on in life — enjoy the walk, learn about ourselves, keep taking steps and drop the comparisons. You’ll love the journey even more.
About Leo Babauta
www.zenhabits.net
Leo Babauta is a successful writer and blogger. He writes about a variety of subjects such as simplicity, motivation and achievement. Leo kindly let us adapt this piece and bring it to you.
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Spotlight
Interview: Ex-Senior Partner David Artingstall It has always been an important part of a young lawyer's development to take advice from those who have already travelled the road they are embarking on. In the first of our Spotlight series we caught up with an ex-Senior Partner of a regional law firm - David Artingstall. ITL: Can you summarise your own legal career path for us David David: Sure. I actually wanted to be an airline pilot originally but that was ruled out because I wasn’t too hot at Maths and Physics. I chose a career in law as the next best alternative. I did my articles (equivalent to a training contract) in a general practice in Manchester and then later moved to another city centre firm to set up a branch office in the suburbs.
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Name: David Artingstall Current Occupation: Legal Recruitment www.future-legal.co.uk David Artingstall is an ex-lawyer and founder of Future Legal Recruitment. FLR is a specialist legal recruitment agency offering a bespoke and personal service to the legal community throughout Greater Manchester, Merseyside and the wider North West.
After I had become partner the partnership split and I took my office out of the firm and became senior partner. After 10 years of this I was made an offer for my share holding and sold my interest staying on as a consultant for a couple of years, before leaving practise altogether. ITL: Since leaving the law what have you done? David: A client introduced me to a chef who wanted backing in a restaurant. I invested a substantial sum in buying and running the restaurant which I still own. It’s now under management. I also started a legal recruitment business in Manchester which I am continuing to grow. ITL: What skills from your legal career have proven most useful in your new career? David: Interpersonal skills developed in practise. Ability to assess a situation and precis it to determine a solution. Ability to put together a well constructed proposal or letter. Ability to appear confident.
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Interview with Ex-Senior Partner - David Artingstall
When you start applying for training contracts (or vacation schemes) with commercial law firms, people will tell you that you have to show “commercial awareness”. ITL: Are you living your passion? Do you feel your life is more balanced now in your alternative career? David: Financially it’s much more challenging outside the law than in it. Profit margins are much smaller! That said I spent 26 years building up a successful practice, commuting every day to the office, working long hours which impinged on family life. It bought us the things we enjoyed for the family though. Nice house, holidays, kids’ education etc. Maybe I took it for granted a bit but now I have a much more interesting and varied life where I choose much more what I do each day. That’s not to say I don’t still have major challenges. It’s just that they are different challenges. I’d say I’m happier but definitely poorer! ITL: What is the best advice you give to law students and graduates who contact you for paralegal roles? David: Much depends on whether the graduate / student has any previous experience working within a law firm. If so, look to pursue the area of law you already have experience in, even if you think you might prefer a change of field later. Once in the door you can test the water down the line as to whether you can change department. Future Magazine JULY MARCH Into TheSolicitor Law Magazine 2013 2013
If you have no previous legal work experience think carefully before approaching a recruiter, who will charge firms a fee to take you on. These are financially challenging times for firms and, with applicants they will have to train from scratch, they may well give preference to someone who comes without a price tag. A personal approach might be best. In any event, even entering a firm at paralegal level, firms may well be looking to take on people they think in the future will be proactive and generate business for them. Make sure your CV reflects the fact you are outgoing and proactive. ITL: What do you consider the best alternative law career options for those who are unsuccessful in securing a training contract? David: This depends on your interests. But estate agents, commercial and residential, work closely with lawyers. If there is an interest in family work, then careers in psychology/counselling, social services etc. For inroads to commercial / corporate work - the banks, finance houses, venture capital. Look at firms that supply services to lawyers like providers of services for personal injury firms etc. 6 44
Interview with Ex-Senior Partner - David Artingstall
Don’t take yourself too seriously. In your twenties you don’t even think it…but life is short.
ITL: How do you see the legal profession developing over the next couple of years? David: Continuing consolidation with many firms merging. Firms will be in competition with third party providers of legal services and will have to be alert to new opportunities if they are going to prosper. Small niche firms will be formed as breakaway businesses from the larger firms. They can offer services at lower costs by having lower overheads than the large firms. ITL: What advice would you give to law students and trainee solicitors today? Is there anything else you would like to add? David: Work in an area of law you enjoy. Don’t spend years in an area that you don’t find stimulating. Be prepared to take a risk, but make sure you think it through carefully or have plenty of wool on your back before you do. Don’t take yourself too seriously. In your twenties you don’t even think it…but life is short. Make sure you leave room for enjoyment and the family. They are the most important thing…..Not being the top fee earner! There’s no point working until the small hours for someone else. Do it for yourself.
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Q&A
What I Did Last Summer How to spend your summer holidays wisely We caught up with a couple of graduate recruiters to ask them a question we hear all the time from students as the summer holidays descend....
In your experience, what is the best way for a student to spend their summer holidays in order to strengthen their case for a training contract in the future?
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A.
Here is what Paula McMullan, Graduate Recruitment Manager at Gide Loyrette Nouel LLP (London), had to say:
The obvious answer is to gain relevant work experience, but with opportunities becoming rarer than hen’s teeth, you may need to think laterally. Find things to do that will give you useful life experience. Volunteer work can be a useful way of adding to your transferable skills and will also give you something interesting to talk about on your application form. Or you could even start your own charitable initiative to build on your negotiation, strategic thinking and communication skills.
...with opportunities becoming rarer than hen’s teeth, you may need to think laterally. Find things to do that will give you useful life experience. The buzz words for recruiters right now are “commercial awareness” and “business savvy” so spend time understanding what this means and how you will show that you have it. Read the papers and investigate journals for a more in depth analysis of what is happening is not just in business, but in areas of interest to the firms you are applying to. Talk to business people about what is important and relevant to them. Ask them what you would need to do to convince them of your commercial awareness. And finally, work on your professional presence - know how to walk into a room, greet people, show an interest and engage in meaningful conversation. Get feedback from others on the first impression that you give and how you come across. It doesn’t matter how good you may look on paper if you don’t shine on the day you meet a firm.
Find out more about graduate opportunities at Gide Loyrette Nouel Into The Law Magazine
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A.
Here’s what Samantha Hope, Graduate Recruitment Manager at Shoosmiths, had to say:
Any experience where you can gain skills, which will later help you to demonstrate your potential to be a great lawyer, will be beneficial to you obtaining a Training Contract. Business development and personal skills are just as important as academic, and these are the qualities you can work on just by doing things you enjoy. Use the summer holidays to your advantage; by working out who you are, and what you want in life; go travelling, volunteer, work in a legal or non-legal capacity, or complete an additional study course.
Use the summer holidays to your advantage; by working out who you are, and what you want in life Don’t rule out sun, sea and sand, but do it in a unique way by volunteering in another country, challenge your fears and do a bungee jump or go deep sea diving, or simply work abroad. Make sure you can always give reasons to describe your decision to complete a particular activity if challenged. These types of activities will give you lots to talk about on your application form and at interview, and if you are passionate about the activities, this will shine through and secure you your dream job.
Find out more about graduate opportunities at Shoosmiths Into The Law Magazine
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Reviews
Book 21st Century Solicitor How to Make a Real Impact as a Junior Commercial Lawyer By Steve Weiner This might be news: success as a twenty-first century solicitor is not dependent on your technical aptitude alone. Sorry. As well as the basic requirements of understanding and applying the law superbly, you are also now expected to master a whole suite of so-called ‘soft skills’ -- communicating empathetically, acting commercially, writing carefully, presenting brilliantly, networking sensibly and building relationships enthusiastically. These skills might be called ‘soft’ by our industry, but the reality is that they are both incredibly hard and vitally important -- especially as a junior commercial lawyer keen to make a likeable, professional, commercial and lasting positive impression on those in control of your embryonic career. Written by a lawyer with unique experience as a commercial practitioner, trainer and lawfirm voyeur, this no-nonsense ‘how to’ guide is an honest, punchy and modern look at all the skills you don’t get taught at law school, yet are absolutely critical to achieving success from day one of your life as a twenty-first century solicitor.
Buy The Book About Steve Weiner Steve previously worked as a solicitor in a City firm before leaving practice to work as a skills trainer and a business coach in a number of leading City law firms. Steve is also an award-winning stand-up comic, has performed in comedy clubs all around the UK and is a TV actor, radio presenter and an accomplished comedy writer. Visit: www.steveweinerconsulting.com
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