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An international law firm made news last year when a company memo was leaked that gave sexist and condescending advice to its female lawyers. Some of the advice was practical and related to giving presentations and public speaking. However, there was also advice that seemed like it came straight from the 1950s.
The tips warned that female lawyers should not “hide behind their hair”, “squirm”, “giggle” or “wave their arms”. The memo also advised that they should wear a suit at the office and not their “party outfit”.
Of course, for most women who have managed to make it through higher education and into the law business – these tips are laughably obvious and a little silly. You already know how to dress professionally and that giggling business hours is not very professional. These are the type of business skills that you learn at a very early age. So what are some real tips that female lawyers need to know in order to excel in their careers?
Seek Out a Mentor
When you are just starting out in the law profession, having a mentor who can guide you along the way is so incredibly valuable. If you can find someone who is your senior at the same organization as you, they will have personal experience navigating the office culture and that particular work environment. If your mentor is willing to share their insights and give you pointers, they can offer you a lot of helpful guidance.
You can even have two mentors, as this gives you the opportunity to learn from different perspectives. As a female lawyer it can be helpful to have a mentor from both genders. The female mentor will understand your situation and your issues and will be able to give you advice from that perspective. However, the male mentor will give you valuable insight as well because he can let you know how your actions are being perceived by the other men in the workplace.
No Two Cases Are the Same
According to Prime Lawyers property and debt solicitor Cassandra Graves, it is important to consider the unique situation of each and every client. She admits that some have similar matters, but they “each present with their own particular circumstances.”
If you understand this you will be able to approach every case with fresh eyes and give your clients the best advantage.
Make the Most of Networking
Networking is one of the most powerful ways that you can build relationships within the law world. Take the time to cultivate bonds and get to know people – as well as offering your help and advice to others.
Not only is networking fun and rewarding, but when someone you connect with hears of an opportunity or a job opening that you are qualified for – you will be in the top of their mind and they will likely pass it along to you.
Take Care of Your Work/Life Balance
The life of a lawyer can be stressful and the workload can be overwhelming. However, you owe it to yourself to make sure that you are striving toward a healthy work/life balance. When you are in a high stress, busy career it is even more important. You need to schedule in time for what is important to you, including family, exercise, eating well and quiet “you time”.
You might be thinking, “I don’t time for that”. However, making sure that you are recharged and healthy will actually give you more energy and allow you to take on all of your responsibilities – without crashing.
Women in law – keep these tips in mind and you will excel within your chosen specialisation.