Aside from technical experience, what do in-house employers look for?
In most cases, a solid law firm training and some post-qualification experience is preferred. Whilst typically 2 – 4 years PQE is seen as the optimum time to move, we do see opportunities for more junior candidates, including newly qualifieds. Generally speaking, the more senior you are, the greater the expectation that you will already have some previous in-house experience.
In all cases, you need to be able to demonstrate a pragmatic, commercial and results-driven approach to your advice. An awareness of your client’s bottom line will be key at all times. The ability to build strong relationships with people from a variety of different backgrounds will also be crucial to your success.
In summary, whilst there is no doubt that working in-house can be both exciting and highly rewarding, it is not for everyone, and certainly not for the faint-hearted. Those individuals who flourish in this environment tend to be robust, self-sufficient, instinctively commercial and natural communicators.