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5 steps to stand out as a lawyer: Get ahead of the legal competition

Published:
14 Jan 2024
News
5 steps to stand out as a lawyer: Get ahead of the legal competition

The legal sector is bursting with competent, highly skilled professionals. And while this means the industry stays vibrant and respected – it does bring challenges. Biggest of them all? Standing out from the competition.

We spoke to people and culture consultant, high-performance coach and bestselling author, Shona Rowan, about what it takes to rise above the rest. Here she shares her 5 expert steps to stand out as a lawyer, helping you reach your full professional potential.

But first, why differentiation matters...

Whether you work in private practice, in-house or government – and whatever your speciality area – you’ll be asking yourself this question time and again: How can I set myself apart? While it may seem like a merely competitive concern, Shona says differentiation goes far deeper than that.

Differentiation is about sharpening your strengths and realising your potential – professionally and personally. It helps you achieve your career goals, find clients that resonate and provide unparalleled value to them.

It often goes hand in hand with high performance. The lawyers who stand out typically have exceptional communication skills, strong and genuine interpersonal skills, and are adaptable.”

In reality as more lawyers enter the field, and legaltech noise rises, so does the challenge of standing out. So, what steps can you take to sharpen your skills and set yourself apart?

 

STEP 1: Get to know yourself 

Ever heard the saying, ‘Know thyself’? Shona says it applies to your professional life as much as your personal life.

If you want to perform to your best – and create a fulfilling career – you need to build awareness of your strengths, development areas, fears, goals, values and current performance.

“So much research shows that high performers uncover and then leverage their natural strengths. When you know who you are, what you’re good at, and what you want, you can begin to carve your authentic and unique journey – and steer clear of the comparison trap.”

In other words, if you want to stand out, you must first look in. Self-awareness is the foundation for career growth – and an asset in all areas of law.

“It empowers you to make more informed decisions, recognise your biases, maintain objectivity, manage stress, and build strong relationships with clients and colleagues.”

So, how can you increase your self-awareness?

Give yourself the time for self-reflection and make it a habit. A reflective diary or journal can aid in that process,” Shona explains.

And capitalise on your after-action reviews. Ask your manager, colleagues, mentors or clients what you did well and what needs improving. That external insight is invaluable.”

There are a variety of effective methods Shona suggests, such as:

  1. Self-Reflection: Regularly setting aside time for introspection and self-evaluation can help lawyers assess their performance, decisions, and responses in different situations. Journaling or keeping a reflective diary can aid in this process.
  2. After action reviews (AAR): After completing a piece of work, meeting or pitch, lawyers can conduct an AAR to assess what went well and where challenges were faced which helps with learning from experience and making necessary adjustments.
  3. Seek out feedback: Talk to colleagues, mentors, managers, clients and peers. This can provide valuable insights into one's professional strengths, development areas and potential blind spots.
  4. Complete a 360-Degree Feedback assessment
  5. Personality and strengths assessments: (e.g., Myers-Briggs Type Indicator; Gallup StrengthsFinder).

 

STEP 2: Develop your personal brand

Once you’re on the path to knowing thyself, it’s time to develop your brand.

Your personal brand should reflect your authentic character and values,” Shona says. “And it needs to be articulated clearly and consistently across channels.”

That means your LinkedIn presence should match your in-person vibe. And your email tone directly relates to your meeting-room interactions. So, if someone were to cold message you on LinkedIn, they’d know what to expect in your coffee catch-up based on your tone of reply.

You need a strategic approach to communication and self-presentation – and an ongoing commitment to stick to it,” Shona says.

A compelling personal brand is the cornerstone of differentiation in a crowded market. It generates trust and credibility among clients and opens doors to new opportunities. Compelling brands are clear about who they are, what they stand for, and what sets them apart… so do some personal brand analysis.

Lawyers need to pinpoint their unique strengths, values, areas of expertise and what sets them apart in the legal field accurately. That way you can be authentic, and authenticity is key, the brand should reflect the lawyer’s true character and values.

A compelling personal brand can help attract clients who resonate with the lawyer's values, style, and approach. Clients are more likely to choose a lawyer they feel a connection with,” Shona explains.

 

STEP 3: Build meaningful relationships

We all know networking is paramount to a sustained legal career. But Shona says to stand out, you don’t need to cast the widest net.

It isn’t about collecting business cards. It’s about building and nurturing genuine, long-term relationships. Investing in a small network can sometimes be a smarter way to go. You can take the time to get to know your contacts. Be curious about their interests, goals and challenges – and offer them support where you can.”

Shona believes meaningful relationships are established through generosity. In other words, ask not what your contact can do for you – but what you can do for your contact.

In your work environment, practise active listening and collaboration. And in the larger legal community, keep attending industry events and sharing your knowledge. It will strengthen your reputation as trustworthy, approachable and likeable.”

And in today’s tech-heavy landscape, a personable approach can be your ticket to standing out. Have a positive attitude – be the kind of person people want to connect with.  Overall, approachability humanises being a lawyer, making you more relatable, and ultimately more successful in your legal career.

Within firms, fostering positive working relationships with colleagues and staff is essential for a harmonious and productive work environment. This involves active listening, collaboration, and mutual support.

In terms of building your external network and alliances in the larger legal community - this requires a consistent commitment to networking, attending industry events, and engaging in knowledge sharing. 

Long-term relationship-building that is grounded in trust and reciprocity, not only enhances one's professional reputation, but leads to opportunities for collaboration and growth in the legal field.

 

STEP 4: Take control of your career

A harsh reality about your career? Nobody is going to care about it as much as you. So, Shona advises a proactive approach if you want to get ahead.

“You must put yourself in the driver's seat of your career. That means setting professional development goals, asking for opportunities, and expanding your skillset and knowledge.

“Don’t leave your growth up to chance – or up to your firm or manager to drive them for you…. I’ve seen intelligent, hard-working lawyers miss out on opportunities because they didn’t grab them with both hands. Create a career plan and pursue it.”

After all, your work doesn’t always speak for itself. You may need to speak for your work.

Set yourself career and professional development goals, ask for opportunities, read books, get a mentor or coach, attend courses, listen to podcasts, seek feedback, and keep learning and growing,” Shona encourages.

Making the most of your continuing professional development and really making it count is another easy way to take greater control of your future.

 

STEP 5: Be proactive – as your default setting

Everybody loves lawyers who are on the front foot. It demonstrates a strong work ethic, internal motivation and commitment to excellence. So, why not be one of them?

Shona explains three quick ways to demonstrate proactivity in your workplace – and beyond.

  1. Find ways to add value to your environment: Rather than waiting for instructions, seek ways to help, whether in a meeting or at an event. Take the initiative and propose fresh solutions for existing problems and seek out opportunities to contribute.
  2. Engage in business development: Whether via networking or innovating within your workplace, the more you contribute to growth, the more likely you are to stand out. Nurture existing relationships and look to expand your reach.
  3. Keep people updated: Colleagues, clients and managers love being in the loop. So, communicate openly and often about progress on projects, any potential issues, roadblocks or wins.

Adopting a proactive approach is a powerful way for professionals to stand out in their respective fields. By taking initiative, identifying opportunities, and actively seeking solutions to challenges, proactive individuals demonstrate a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence. They are often viewed as self-starters who don't require constant supervision, making them valuable assets to employers and clients alike.”

 

Final food for thought

Shona has coached hundreds of high performers, but one thing she sees time and time again?

“People chronically underestimate the importance of building your network, brand and visibility. While technical proficiency is essential for lawyers, you must balance this with strong communication, interpersonal and networking skills along with a well-defined value proposition. This way, you can truly set yourself apart in a competitive legal landscape.”

 

About Shona Rowan

Shona Rowan is a people and culture consultant, high-performance coach, keynote speaker and best-selling author. She is also the founder of The Psychology of Successful Women Career Acceleration Program and Podcast. 

Shona has over 15 years of international experience working with Fortune 500 companies, professional service firms, entrepreneurs, business owners and career-minded individuals to accelerate their careers, overcome imposter syndrome, maximise performance and accelerate their success. 

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So how do you know what path to pursue when you don’t have a clue? Here are 6 strategies to help you find a career that’s right for you. 

Reclaiming your career after a career break

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Reclaiming your career after a career break

Insights explores the issue of when lawyers decide to take a temporary break from the law, and what both lawyers and employers can do help experienced legal professionals return to the profession.

NSW introduces combined Succession & Probate Lists: Key Updates

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NSW introduces combined Succession & Probate Lists: Key Updates

Recently, the Supreme Court of New South Wales introduced combined Succession & Probate Lists, applicable to family provision claims and contested probate applications. Queensland is also trialling a Wills and Estates List and there are likely to be further implications for other jurisdictions. We spoke to College of Law Lecturer Josephine Pignataro, Special Counsel at HWL Ebsworth, about what you need to know and how this will impact your practice.

REVEALED: The College’s most popular on-demand CPD short courses for 2024

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REVEALED: The College’s most popular on-demand CPD short courses for 2024

To prepare you for what’s next, let’s unpack the College of Law’s 5 most popular on-demand CPD Digital Subscription courses. It’s the best way to keep your skills sharp – and your mind engaged.

From procrastination to passion

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From procrastination to passion

Overcoming procrastination is quite simple: passion. There must be an internal desire, not dependent on anything except ourselves. That’s why we enable our learners to choose the courses and practice areas that matter most to them - from family law to advocacy - we’re helping lawyers reclaim their power and focus on the areas that they are passionate about.

Vale Kay Smith

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Vale Kay Smith

On Monday 15 August 2016, Kay Smith, one of The College of Law’s longest serving and most respected people died after a short illness.

Kay’s legal career began when she gained her qualification in Law through the NSW Legal Practitioners Admission Board. Kay then obtained a position as an articled clerk with a city firm at a time when there were very few openings for women in the legal profession. She was admitted as a solicitor and established a legal career. She moved from private practice to the College of Law in 1983 – the start of a 30 year career at the College.

Dispute Resolution Postgraduate Programs Course Guide

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Dispute Resolution Postgraduate Programs Course Guide

Download the Dispute Resolution Postgraduate Course Guide to learn how our program can equip you with essential skills to resolve conflicts effectively and build a rewarding career in this growing field.

Graduate Certificate in International Arbitration Practice Course Guide

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Graduate Certificate in International Arbitration Practice Course Guide

Download the Graduate Certificate in International Arbitration Practice Course Guide and unlock the skills needed to navigate complex, cross-border legal disputes with confidence and efficiency.

Property Law Postgraduate Programs Course Guide

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Property Law Postgraduate Programs Course Guide

Download the Property Law Postgraduate Course Guide and discover how our specialised program can help you build expertise and thrive in this dynamic field.

Graduate Certificate in Applied Law Guide

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Graduate Certificate in Applied Law Guide

Looking to boost your legal career but not ready to dive into a Master of Laws (LLM)?
 
The Graduate Certificate in Applied Law might be the answer.
 
Offering a flexible and affordable way to upskill, the Graduate Certificate is a popular option for busy legal professionals looking to sharpen their skills or master a particular field.
 
Download this course guide to receive more information. 
How to have the career you want with John Poulsen

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How to have the career you want with John Poulsen

How do you transcend the daily grind to do work you love? When can a career become a calling? What steps can you take to achieve the career you want? We spoke to John Poulsen, former CEO of Squire Patton Boggs and Principal of People Passion Performance, for his insights on getting the career you want informed by an illustrious career in law and leadership.

50 years of expertise in one CPD solution

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50 years of expertise in one CPD solution

For 50 years, the College of Law has led the way in practical legal education.

We stand in our own lane – empowering practitioners to become the best lawyers they can be. How? With innovative, hands-on training that evolves with the demands of the legal profession.

Our CPD Digital Subscription is built on this legacy.

Self-awareness: The surprising foundation to a thriving legal career

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Self-awareness: The surprising foundation to a thriving legal career

There’s no doubt the legal sector can be an intense work environment. Thanks to heavy caseloads and fierce competition, lawyers and other legal professionals are facing stress, anxiety and burnout on a concerning scale. But according to executive transition coach and CEO at Lucent Global, Ellie Scarf, it doesn’t have to be this way. There’s one tool that can help you manage a plethora of professional challenges. That tool? Self-awareness.

5 tips on how to avoid common ethical breaches for lawyers with Athol Opas

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5 tips on how to avoid common ethical breaches for lawyers with Athol Opas

The law is a complex field heavily reliant on knowledge, interpretation and advice. This makes for a profession that can have far reaching consequences and, as a result, lawyers are held to high standards. Athol Opas presents annual ethics updates to firms to keep them abreast of recent cases of misconduct and/or common ethical breaches. We spoke to Athol to find out about the most common ethical breaches lawyers should be mindful of and to gain his top tips on complying within ethical obligations. 

What are the top negligence claims facing lawyers today?

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What are the top negligence claims facing lawyers today?

The College of Law investigates which legal practice areas are most at risk of negligence claims and why. We spoke to Lawcover’s Legal Risk Manager Glenda Carry about the practice areas most affected by negligence claims, what behaviours can lead to adverse claims by clients, and what risk mitigation strategies law practices can put in place.

From LLB to Parliament – Australia’s Politicians-Turned-Lawyers

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From LLB to Parliament – Australia’s Politicians-Turned-Lawyers

Australia’s recent change in leadership has set the nation’s eyes on Malcolm Turnbull. Over the coming weeks and months, the newly appointed 29th Prime Minister will reveal his mettle as a national leader.

From ballroom dancing to the law: Meet PLT alum Helena Angela Hanna

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From ballroom dancing to the law: Meet PLT alum Helena Angela Hanna

While completing her law degree and Practical Legal Training with the College of Law, Helena Hanna also kept up with her interests outside of studies. Learn more about Helena and her law degree experience.

How to merge your love of music with your legal career: Chelsea's story

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How to merge your love of music with your legal career: Chelsea's story

Learn how Chelsea Donoghue merged her lot of arts and law: How she managed her study while on world tours, what she loves most about her work at Sanicki Lawyers, and what’s next.

Graduates and prize winners recognised in June ceremony

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Graduates and prize winners recognised in June ceremony

Graduates and prize winners celebrated their achievements, received their awards and honours remotely due to continuing COVID-19 restrictions.

How AI is being used in Family Law

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How AI is being used in Family Law

To understand where legal AI use cases are showing up within family law, the College spoke with two highly experienced practitioners who have incorporated AI into their legal practice in different ways. Fiona Kirkman, principal at Kirkman Family Law, embraced ChatGPT early on in her practice, while Jenna Downy, solicitor at Family Law Matters, helped train LawY, an AI legal research assistant.

How to exit your job gracefully in law

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How to exit your job gracefully in law

For the 1 in 4 Australian lawyers considering leaving their job, the current job market is tipped in their favour. However, Australia’s legal profession is tight-knit and relatively small, so reputation matters. If you are leaving your role for fresh challenges, here are our top tips on how to exit your job gracefully in law, from the College of Law’s National Careers Advisors Ruth Beran and Susan Pincus.

Juggling full-time work, parenting and PLT possible through the College of Law, says Kerala Drew

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Juggling full-time work, parenting and PLT possible through the College of Law, says Kerala Drew

Kerala Drew found the path to qualifying as an Australian lawyer fraught with roadblocks. Learn how she landed her first job in law, what set her College of Law PLT experience apart from prior study, and what advice she might have for lawyers looking to join the Australian legal profession.

6 tips to build your brand and leave a lasting impression

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6 tips to build your brand and leave a lasting impression

Here are 6 tips to help you leave a lasting impression and showcase your worth. 

When commercial acumen meets common courtesy: Ankurpreet’s LPMC story

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When commercial acumen meets common courtesy: Ankurpreet’s LPMC story

Ankurpreet Singh was thrust into a costly commercial conflict, which made him determine to pursue a legal career. To make his dream a reality, he enrolled in the College of Law’s LPMC – where he bolstered his business competence and confidence.

How to get a government job in law: everything you need to know

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How to get a government job in law: everything you need to know

Embarking on a legal career in local, state, or federal government can be an exciting move. There are many pathways for development, a broad range of practice areas, and often a healthy work-life balance. These roles are highly rewarding, and highly competitive, the College of Law tells you everything you need to know about landing a government job in law.

The legal ramifications of the Queen’s death are surprisingly small

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The legal ramifications of the Queen’s death are surprisingly small

We talk to the College of Law’s Adrian Deans, Academic Policy & Quality, James Crittenden, Head of Short Courses and CPD, and Lewis Patrick, Chief Academic Officer, about some of the pragmatic impacts of the Queen’s passing on the law and Australian legal profession.

3 Key Insights from the State of Separation Impact Report: Making Separation Simpler

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3 Key Insights from the State of Separation Impact Report: Making Separation Simpler

Parting ways in a relationship is never easy, and family lawyers are generally the first professional separating couples encounter when they end a relationship. For all of these reasons Angela Harbinson created The Separation Guide, which aims to make separation and divorce simpler, more manageable and less stressful.

Kyiesha Faulkner: How the Indigenous Business Handbook is transforming lives

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Kyiesha Faulkner: How the Indigenous Business Handbook is transforming lives

Starting a business is never easy. What step should you take first? How do you negotiate the ins and outs of your legal requirements if you’re not a lawyer? Even for a seasoned lawyer these steps are complicated…And what if you also face unique cultural considerations and complexities?

How to get into Wills & Estates with Rick Christie

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How to get into Wills & Estates with Rick Christie

Rick Christie, owner of ChristieLaw and committee member of STEP NSW, had always been attracted to the personal side of wills and estates. Insights spoke to Rick about how he came to specialise in wills and estates, what advice he might have for lawyers looking to move into the area, and what role industry organisation STEP can play for lawyers keen to become specialists.

Navigating Age Discrimination In The Law With Tile Imo

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Navigating Age Discrimination In The Law With Tile Imo

Bias and age-based discrimination remains an issue in the workforce, despite legal protections. In this article, we delve into the intricacies of age bias claims with Tilé Imo, Associate Director of Caxton Legal Centre. We explore the evolving legal landscape, effective strategies for litigating age discrimination cases, and the emerging trends that lawyers need to be aware of to best serve their clients.

Major changes ahead with the Family Law Amendment Bill 2023 in progress

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Major changes ahead with the Family Law Amendment Bill 2023 in progress

Major changes are coming that will impact the family law system and the way practitioners operate in Australia. The Family Law Amendment Bill 2023 is currently under debate in parliament and after its third reading, it is now under review with the Senate Legal and Constitutional Affairs Legislation Committee. The College of Law will provide legal training support when the Family Law Amendment Bill commences, but in the meantime, we spoke with College of Law adjunct lecturer Kathryn Kearley to find out about the most important changes.  

Graduates, prize winners honoured at the Winter 2022 Academic Awards Ceremony

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Graduates, prize winners honoured at the Winter 2022 Academic Awards Ceremony

The College of Law recognised over 200 graduates of its Postgraduate Specialisation Programs at the 2022 Academic Awards Ceremony on 1 August. These awards included the Master of Laws (Applied Law), Master of Applied Law (Family Law), Graduate Diplomas of Applied Law and Graduate Diploma of Family Dispute Resolution Practice (FDRP).

New Resolution Institute and The College of Law partnership to maximise skills and experience

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New Resolution Institute and The College of Law partnership to maximise skills and experience

Resolution Institute and The College of Law are pleased to announce an exciting new partnership aimed at establishing a symbiotic cooperation which will maximise the resources of both organisations through mutual collaboration and the sharing of expertise and efforts in education and training.

Legal Practice Management Course Queensland - Course Guide

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Legal Practice Management Course Queensland - Course Guide

Download the QLD Legal Practice Management Course Guide to learn how our program can prepare you to manage a law firm or take on a leadership role within an established practice.

Legal Practice Management Course Western Australia - Course Guide

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Legal Practice Management Course Western Australia - Course Guide

Download the WA Legal Practice Management Course Guide to learn how our course can help you meet the requirements for a Principal Practising Certificate and successfully manage a legal practice.

Top 10 Most Influential Court Cases of the Last 40 Years

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Top 10 Most Influential Court Cases of the Last 40 Years

To mark our 40th anniversary, The College of Law recently ran a survey asking for your view on the top 10 most influential High Court of Australia cases over the last 40 years. The responses you provided us showcased a range of landmark cases, spanning from Indigenous land rights, to clashes between territory and Commonwealth, to the David-vs-Goliath legal struggles of refugees.

5 tips on taking your legal career overseas and to new heights!

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5 tips on taking your legal career overseas and to new heights!

Do you fantasise about foreign cities, buzzing cultures and access to connected world hubs? As a lawyer you are well placed to explore these very things and expand your career lens. Helen Tung, barrister, senior counsel and teaching fellow at the College of Law, has led an impressive legal career working across the UK, UAE, America, Australia and Japan. We asked Helen for her advice to lawyers wanting to take their legal careers to the world stage.

Top 10 Most Expensive Legal Settlements in History

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Top 10 Most Expensive Legal Settlements in History

Billion-dollar companies who fall foul of the law, or billionaires who fall foul of a spouse, can result in eye-watering legal settlements. In the case of class actions, financial payouts can be a major way to provide recompense and right wrongs. Here is our top 10 list of the most expensive settlements in history… costly class actions, pharmaceutical payouts and extravagant divorces.

The Road to Becoming a Company Secretary

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The Road to Becoming a Company Secretary

There is no shortage of reasons to hire a law graduate for a job that isn't solely legally focussed. Among the new lawyers graduating from law school every year are some of our generation’s best, brightest and most hard-working prospective employees and it’s not just law firms that are sitting up and taking notice.

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