The Hot 100 career quiz: “Wear colour, break the mould and be unique”

What’s your most vivid memory from being a trainee?

Being asked by the senior partner to carry boxes and boxes of files to his car whilst wearing five-inch heels. He did not offer me any help and just watched as I tottered off down three flights of stairs, nearly breaking my neck. Chauvinism was alive and kicking.

What is the thing in your professional career that has terrified you or taken you out of your comfort zone the most?

Taking on the aristocracy in a serious sexual harassment case supporting two traumatised female employees. I was a junior lawyer in a team of one handling the case alone with only support from amazing Counsel.  I had to manage the day to day case work, the trauma of the clients and the circling media.  The other side was aggressive, bullish and desperate to see the case settle. We received major disclosure the night before the trial was listed which changed the whole framework of the case. It was exhausting and exhilarating at the same time.

What is the wisest thing anyone ever said to you (and who said it)?

Don’t be afraid to be yourself and bring your real self to work.  (Karen Jackson).

What advice would you give to someone who wants to get to where you are/do the job you do?

Be authentic and human. Do what makes you happy and do it well. In the work I do people buy people and your charisma and personality can take you a long way. Treat people how you want to be treated and be genuine.  As a claimant lawyer my job is about building trust and confidence and making people believe that I am on their side. Create a network of people to support you, who have the same passions and beliefs and who want to see you do well. Do not be afraid to take risks, to be bold and to be brave.  Carve a niche for yourself and stand out. Wear colour, break the mould and be unique. The law can be stifling, oppressive and competitive. Stand out from the crowd and lead by example.

What’s your best friend from law school doing now?

Living in Grand Cayman working as a funds lawyer.  My time at law school was tricky as I was surrounded by people wanting to be corporate lawyers.  As a ‘wannabe’ claimant employment lawyer I did not have many kindred spirits around me.  It was not until I joined Bindmans that I realised that there were other people that wanted to champion the rights of others and make change.