Equibalance (ELBA) x Linklaters – Career Industry Insight visit

Written by Samie John, Project Manager, Equibalance

This May Equibalance was invited for a Career Insight Visit at Linklaters, one of the prestigious ‘Magic Circle’ law firms. This event was organised to provide young aspiring lawyers aged 15-18 from global majority backgrounds with a comprehensive understanding of working at a commercial law firm. The visit aimed to develop the skills required for fulfilling careers, identify potential barriers to career progression, and understand the capabilities needed to become business leaders.

During the visit, the candidates engaged with distinguished Linklaters associates performing various roles within the firm. This interaction offered them a broader perspective on the diverse career opportunities available at Linklaters, helping them explore their career options further.

Here are some reflections from the candidates:

“Today, I attended a career insight day at Linklaters with Equibalance. The event provided invaluable insights into the legal profession for aspiring Black women lawyers.”

“A key takeaway was the importance of actively communicating your expectations in a corporate workspace. We need to challenge the stereotype that ‘Gen-Z people don’t like to work.’ Clear guidance helps us be productive and efficient.”

“I had the privilege of going to Linklaters headquarters to an event hosted by Equibalance-Elba. Such an eye-opening experience, and I’m going to tell you the wondrous advice I received on this day.”

The day’s agenda included a panel discussion with senior Linklaters associates who addressed questions about the firm’s race action plans, commitment to tackling racial inequalities, and essential skills for a career at Linklaters that aren’t typically taught in standard education. The panel emphasized that studying various subjects can still lead to a successful law career and that diversity is a strength in job applications.

One candidate shared their experience:

“At first we did a ‘careers carousel’ with many of the lawyers in different departments coming to our tables one-by-one to describe in detail what exactly they do. Conversations that stuck out to me the most were around having good communication skills and teamwork when it comes to advising companies on their urgent decisions, which I found extremely inspirational.”

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