Lawyer Han Kim worked with College of Law Careers Counsellor Susan Pincus to kick start his legal career. In this Q&A, Han explores his unconventional journey into the law, what he does now, and how careers counselling helped steer him towards his new career in law.
- What inspired you to become a lawyer?
I took a somewhat unconventional path to become a lawyer. Early on in my professional journey, I worked as a removalist and events coordinator. I enjoyed conceptualising detailed plans, forging external relationships, and discreetly supporting the hosts. Throughout my career, I was intrigued by businesses, especially short-term collective micro strategies, which led me to study for a post-graduate degree in management. A bit of trial and error combined with reflecting on what I enjoyed and searching for a career that would enable continual learning and transparent growth into a specialist “inspired” me to become a lawyer.
- Where do you work now, and what kind of challenges does it involve?
I work as a solicitor in the Commercial Litigation team at Hicksons Lawyers. Even after just a few months in my current role, the challenges (which are the exciting parts) relate to the tempo and diversity of the matters. These can vary on a spectrum from short small, “neighbourly” disputes to prolonged multi-party Federal Court cases. We approach each matter with the same excellence, respect, responsibility and integrity to exceed our client’s expectations.
- What is the most rewarding aspect of what you do?
The most rewarding aspect of being a solicitor in Commercial Litigation is the constant learning. Hicksons is a mid-sized firm (with approximately 100 lawyers) which means it is small enough for a friendly, close-knit environment and large enough to have a diverse group of engaging people.
There are similarities in litigation in how to handle a client’s matter, but the procedure or legislative interpretation may change. Senior lawyers have told me that even after their many years of experience, they are continually learning and engaging with the law.
- How did working with Susan Pincus help you in your career? What did her career counselling sessions involve, and how did it influence how you approached job applications?
When I received the email from the College of Law encouraging students to book a session with Susan, I approached it with an open mind and as an additional resource to support my transition to a legal career. Susan has been a coach, a motivator and a compassionate person who helped me through the application process, rejections and continual preparations over two months, three Zoom sessions and numerous emails.
To maximise our sessions, I came thoroughly prepared. For our first session, in addition to my CV, which I had sent to her beforehand, I came with a personal SWOT, a list of questions and specific areas for guidance focusing on how to leverage my diverse career. I found this productive and allowed Susan to provide her wealth of knowledge in a tailored manner which in turn provided me with the confidence to continue the uncertain journey of applying for jobs.
Susan is a tremendously valuable resource. I encourage students to organise a session with Susan and to come prepared.
- What advice would you have for lawyers starting their career in law, and nervous about the challenges of finding their first role?
These are my top three tips which I continually remind myself:
- Do not be afraid to ask questions: There is no wrong question, whether it is during the job search or working as a lawyer. In my opinion, what is wrong is not asking questions and making assumptions.
- Be courteous and support each other: As students, we spend most of our time with the cohort. This applies more to your colleagues. So, a smile, a small gesture or a quick friendly conversation goes a long way.
- Be compassionate to yourself and others: Whether it is a legal career seeker or as a junior lawyer, I have made mistakes. It would be ideal to minimise these, but do not let the fear of making another affect your performance. Rather when it happens, take responsibility, learn from it and work not repeat it.