Career is not a solo effort

Alison Atack

Two weeks ago, I stood alongside my peers and colleagues, as I took up the reins as the Law Society of Scotland’s 55th president.

Having been a Scottish solicitor for more years than I care to remember, I now find myself in the unfamiliar territory of being the “newbie”.

The opportunity to be involved in leading the legal profession is an exciting prospect, but I will also admit to a healthy dose of trepidation as I embark on my new role. I suspect the people being admitted in the Signet Library today are at a similarly ambiguous point in their careers.

As they look to their futures as Scottish solicitors, they have many responsibilities ahead, to their colleagues, clients and to themselves – few things worth doing come easy and a legal career is no exception – but they also have much to be excited about, fascinating and fulfilling working lives and a wide variety of career avenues to explore in the pursuit of justice.

Despite being at very different points in our careers, we have something else in common.

None of us got to where we are in our careers by flying solo and none of us will achieve the success we aspire to without the support of our colleagues, family and friends.

What has struck me in my first weeks as president of our professional body, is that I have a fantastic support network all around me, from council and committee members, to the Law Society team and all the amazing colleagues I have met along the way.

Knowing that, is a real comfort and source of inspiration.

So if I can offer some advice to those admitted today, it would be to remember and use the resources available to help you in your chosen career.

You have each other, the people you have studied and trained alongside. Keep in touch and share your problems and solutions with one another.

Like me, you also have the team at the Law Society. Use our website, come along to our events, pick up the phone or drop us a line. We are your society and we want you to thrive.

From a personal perspective, I am absolutely delighted to be part of this important day, it is truly a privilege.

It is a day to join with your family, friends and colleagues to celebrate an important milestone and your achievements so far.

I congratulate you and wish you long, successful and happy careers. n