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16 May 2019 / Rabina Ahmed , Dr Tunde Okewale
Issue: 7840 / Categories: Features , Profession , Training & education
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Your background is an asset—make the most of it

Aspiring BAME students should play to their strengths to stand out from the crowd, say Rabina Ahmed & Dr Tunde Okewale

There’s a perception that in law, as in other professions, the background you come from matters. And that’s right, it does. But these days that can mean many different things. It’s not simply about belonging or not feeling you belong to a certain group, it’s about what you can bring to the table.

So, if your heritage means you can speak more than one language, that’s a selling point, particularly as law firms look to attract global clients. In the same way, your cultural or religious understanding will be an advantage when it comes to cementing client relationships.

Law is not only about technical expertise, it also relies on excellent interpersonal skills, and as globalisation gathers pace, more and more it requires understanding of and sensitivity to different beliefs and customs. Clients are placing great emphasis on law firms that reflect their ideals and philosophy—firms

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MOVERS & SHAKERS

HFW—Nelson Wang

HFW—Nelson Wang

HFW strengthens global insurance practice and Greater China offering with London Partner hire

Burges Salmon—David McEwing

Burges Salmon—David McEwing

Burges Salmon boosts Energy and Utilities practice with appointment of David McEwing

Browne Jacobson—Alexander Studholme

Browne Jacobson—Alexander Studholme

Browne Jacobson adds international construction arbitration partner in London push

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Agreement between opponents offers no guarantee that a court will approve a retrospective increase to a costs budget
Climate change belongs on every lawyer’s agenda, with risks extending far beyond environmental practice into commercial advice, litigation and access to justice
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