| Unregistered |
20-05-2020 09:28 AM |
Quote:
Originally Posted by Unregistered
(Post 134514)
Assuming you're a girl:
1. Look good. If you're not naturally pretty, fix it by brushing up on your makeup skills and investing in a good wardrobe. The aim is to look professional and attractive but not slutty.
2. Have a photo of yourself included in your CV when applying for a job. Have it professionally taken after completing step 1.
3. During training, prove your worth and work like a dog. Most partners are old school and would be very happy to see a trainee voluntarily put in long hours and go the extra mile. (But don't be over eager about it in a teacher's pet kind of way).
4. If applicable to your partner/the firm, show that you can drink and hold conversations. Give your partner confidence that he/she will not be embarrassed to bring you along to client drinks or networking sessions. (This coupled with step 1 will give you an edge over many other female SG law grads, who are very good at studying but are often not seen as "worldly" enough.)
5. Be respectful and friendly to everyone - not just the partners and associates but also the secretaries, tea ladies etc.
6. Get retained and profit.
7. As an associate, keep in contact with your peers/seniors in other firms as well as recruiters. You will then be aware of opportunities as they come by so you can eventually plan your next move.
Some of the points probably don't apply if you already know you're not getting retained but you get the gist...
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Agree with (1), (3), (5) to (7)
For (2), include a photo in your CV if you are pretty. If you are ugly, don't. I understand a photo is asked for in many apps but if not, then don't volunteer it. You have to get through the HR people first (for big firms) who don't know jacksh*t about substantive legal experience.
For (4), so long as you are hot as a girl, partners will bring you along to client meetings, even as a silent flowerpot.
Its true that most SG girls are seen as not "worldly" enough esp if they are the typical studious but sheltered princess-type from top JCs, probably goes to church every Sunday type.
But being able to hold your own in networking and social settings with clients or in industry events, etc. is a skill lacking in both guys and girls, that has to be trained. Of course, if you are attractive, it is much easier for either gender. |
