“Do something you love” – A Career Conversation with Hannah Pinder and Chloe Wishart

As part of our ‘Career Conversation’ series, we caught up with two of our newly qualified solicitors – Hannah Pinder, who assists our dispute resolution and employment teams, and Chloe Wishart from our corporate team – to share their experiences.

Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in law?

Hannah: I hadn’t always planned to be a solicitor and came to it as I finished my degree in Sociology.  It was after a timely discussion with an insightful careers advisor I realised how rewarding it could be. I knew it would be a career where you never stop learning. As has become apparent along the way, I feel lucky to have chosen a career which fits my natural strengths and preferences.

Chloe: I always knew I wanted to be a solicitor, ever since work experience week put me off being a pharmacist. The law was just something that appealed to me and once I had my eyes set, nothing could deter me. I did A-Level law and realised I understood and enjoyed learning about it. I then went to Lancaster University to study Law, and, through my modules and talks with my career advisor, I began to develop my interest in corporate and commercial law.

Describe the feeling of becoming a qualified solicitor.

Chloe: It was such relief after years of hard work. From being a 15-year-old setting my sights on being a solicitor to that day actually arriving I had been through so many ups and downs. There were times when I didn’t think it would happen for me, so when the day finally arrived, I was filled with so much joy and pride. I also felt immense gratitude towards my mentors and colleagues at Harrison Drury for helping make it possible.

 Hannah: When I look at where I was and where I am now, I find myself slightly bewildered. It has been a long climb, and sometimes I did doubt that it would ever finish, but I am determined, and I have been lucky enough to have had some tremendous teachers along the way. Qualifying as a solicitor after eight years of hard work brings with it an enormous sense of accomplishment. I am so proud of myself and also grateful to everyone else who has had a part to play.

What have you enjoyed most during the journey?

Hannah: I would say the level of exposure I’ve had to complex work and being challenged to do my best work every day. I’ve also enjoyed moving around the firm in my seats and getting to know and work with new people. This has allowed me to observe various solicitors’ tones and techniques, so that I’ve been able to develop a number of approaches to best cater for the needs of the client and to adopt my own style.

Chloe: Every step of the way has had its highlights. Being able to do all the different seats and having the opportunity to try different areas of the law. Also, all the people you meet in university, during your LPC and at all the jobs you have along the way. You meet a variety of people and learn new styles of work in every department. It also gives you the opportunity to try out different types of work that you might never do again once you have qualified.

How much responsibility are you given as a trainee and how were you supported by colleagues?

Hannah: I’ve been given the opportunity to stretch myself, being given increasing responsibility on a number of files and gaining experience in case and transaction management. This helped my transition from being a trainee to a newly qualified solicitor and the experiences of different teams will help me as I progress into the new role, with clients of my own. I have always been able to call on my colleagues and was encouraged to ask questions, to seek support and to speak out if I was ever unsure.

Chloe: That’s been my experience too. As you begin to develop more as a trainee, you start to be given more responsibility. The firm puts trust in you and is willing to give you the chance to work on more complex matters to expand your experiences. By your fourth seat you feel ready to become qualified. That said, my colleagues have ensured I’m never given responsibility I’m not comfortable with, and they are always there for you if you need them, no matter how far along in your journey as a solicitor.

What career moment are you most proud of?

Chloe: There have been plenty, but I think my proudest moment was my first business acquisition which I led on from start to finish. From taking the initial enquiry, I was the lead contact for both the client and the solicitors on the other side. I lead on the completion call and dealt with all post completion filing. It was with such pride that I called the client up after completion to tell them the good news.

Hannah: Recently I played a key role in an international copyright dispute on behalf of a UK client. This involved working effectively with California-based attorneys (which was challenging given the time difference!) and ultimately helping the client achieve an extremely favourable confidential settlement of the dispute. The client was overjoyed with the result, which was a great feeling.

Pictured above: Chloe Wishart and Hannah Pinder.

Which area have you chosen to specialise in and what appealed most about it?

Chloe: I’ve chosen to specialise in the corporate team. I really like the transactional side of things – helping clients with business deals. I also enjoy working on business restructures. When tackling a restructure, I like to think of it as a puzzle, working out what is required to get the desired outcome for the client. No two matters are the same and you learn different things from each one.

Hannah: I’ve chosen to specialise in two areas of law; commercial litigation and employment law. These two areas of law have similarities and differences. However, they both allow me to learn something new every day and demonstrate problem solving skills by assisting clients with their disputes and issues. Plus, the teams are amazing.

What are the top qualities and skills needed for your chosen area of law?

Hannah: I’m lucky enough to work with some really skilled professionals and what makes them effective is organisation, attention to detail, communication, and teamwork. Commercial litigation primarily involves contentious work, which requires skills such as negotiation, commercial awareness, time management and being able to manage clients’ expectations.

Chloe: I’d agree about good attention to detail as one small mistake on a document can affect the whole deal. You also need to be organised as there are deadlines for filing and you need to make sure you have all the documents required.

What’s the best of piece of career advice you’ve ever received?

Hannah: I was once told organisation is the key to success. Now that I’m undertaking a dual newly qualified role across two teams, it’s fundamental I’m able to organise my time and prioritise my work effectively to ensure a seamless client experience. Also play to your strengths and do something you love.

Chloe: Mine is to remember that a successful legal career takes time to build. You have to be patient, persistent, and adaptable as you work towards your goals. You need to continuously seek opportunities for growth and improvement, and don’t be afraid to make changes or take calculated risks in your career path.

What advice or tips would you pass on to others who are considering a career in law?

Chloe: Don’t let the hard times stop you making choices and decisions when it comes to career progression. Law can be challenging, with wins and losses, but you’ll develop resilience and the ability to bounce back from setbacks. Learn from your experiences, both positive and negative. Make sure not to compare your ‘step one’ to someone else’s ‘step 100’ as law is one of those areas where we all progress and develop in our own time.

Hannah: Keep an open mind. I had originally thought I would specialise in family law, however I realised it was not the area of law for me. I had never considered commercial litigation or employment before doing seats during my training contract, and I am so thankful for the opportunity to experience these areas of law which I eventually chose to qualify into.

How do you like to prepare for a big day at work?

Chloe: I make sure to wake up early so I have time to go to the gym and stretch. I then make time to get myself ready and read some of my book. For breakfast, I have a big portion of overnight oats which sets me up for the day. When in the office I make sure I read all my emails and prioritise my tasks for the day ahead.

Hannah: As cliché as it sounds, failing to prepare is preparing to fail. Depending on what the big day is, I will of course review the necessary documentation, consider what questions to ask and try to imagine what will be asked of me. I find it a great comfort to be able to put my hand on whatever I need and, if I’m organised, then I can relax and concentrate.

How do you ensure you achieve a work / life balance?

Hannah: I feel lucky to work for a firm that encourages a work-life balance. You can’t provide clients with insightful or effective advice if you’re feeling fatigued or stressed, so achieving that balance is fundamental. I make sure I take time to recharge, taking short breaks throughout the day and I always make sure I get some air at lunch. A few laughs with colleagues through the day also works wonders.

Chloe: I make sure I keep busy with hobbies and enjoy my time at home so that I’m refreshed when I come back to work the next day. I make sure I manage my time well, so I can get home to enjoy the evening. You need to make sure to switch off as soon as you leave the office, although it can be hard you need to leave work in the office and not worry about it until you’re back in.

How do you switch off after work?

Hannah: I decompress by taking an energetic walk or going to the gym. I find this helps me to take my focus off work and to unwind; something which is so necessary to keeping your energy up. I’m also a keen cook and enjoy being creative with new recipes. Of course, I also like to spend quality time with my cat, Charlie (when he allows me!).

Chloe: I make sure I have a nice tea planned so I’ve something to look forward to when I get home. I also keep busy with hobbies like going climbing, going on bike rides or long walks so that I get my steps in. If I’m not doing that, I like to spend time relaxing with the family and my cat Magnet and dog Leo.

What do you like most about being part of the Harrison Drury team?

Hannah: The people I work with every day. I’m lucky enough to be surrounded by talented, inspirational, dedicated (and very funny) people here who strive to make it possible for our clients every day and are happy to share their valuable experiences with me along the way.

Chloe: Everyone really embodies the one team value. No question is too stupid, and everyone always wants to help you out when needed. The culture at work is amazing and you really feel like a valued member of the team when you are here.

Interested in finding out more about a career in law? Our careers page has more details about the opportunities at Harrison Drury.