Top tips for moving in-house

If you are considering to move in-house from private practice, competition can be high. Private practice can be a complete different environment to in-house, so any prior knowledge you have of working in a variety of fashions will hold you in good stead.

Read on for some of Robert Walters’ insider tips on how to make the jump and preparing for a career in-house.

Be versatile

Versatility is often what employers seek when reviewing CV’s, so ensure you communicate your broad range of skills clearly. Employers place high significance on commercial knowledge and experience within legal disciplines, so be sure to emphasise this when applying in-house.

Client facing skills

When working in-house, you will be the face of the legal division for the remainder of the business; communication skills are key. Employers place a lot of importance on your ability to develop business and client face. Generally, in-house teams are quite small – personality can play a huge factor in hiring decisions.

Be patient

A majority of in-house legal jobs are directed at lawyers with 2-5 years’ PQE, although exceptions can exist. Employers will expect confident advisors who can direct the rest of the business.

Focus on language skills

As companies continuously seek to explore regions outside the Middle East, we are seeing a number of cross-border work opportunities becoming available, particularly within developing areas such as Africa and Turkey. There is an increased preference for language skills – if you have those skills here, this will provide you with a definite edge.

If you are looking for a career in Law and require more information please contact:

Nick Aiyegbusi
E:  nick.ayegbusi@robertwalters.com
T:  +971 4 8180 100