Law students and graduates are under pressure to outperform their counterparts in a highly competitive job market. Obtaining advice and guidance from experienced mentors grants budding lawyers the confidence to thrive in the profession.
Creator of the College of Law national mentoring program, Leisa Flatley (pictured), explored the benefits that mentorship brings to law students and graduates. She found that insightful and practical advice had the greatest benefit on the transition of graduates from study into their careers.
The ‘transformational’ impact of mentoring
In the College of Law’s formal mentoring process, the mentee’s interests are at the forefront of the mentor’s mind; this tailored support can allow a graduate to “refine judgement, build resilience and emotional intelligence”, she said.
A lack of confidence is a common barrier for graduates, Flatley said. Students with a mentor reported increased confidence as they are taught the realities of law, how to overcome imposter syndrome, and the interpersonal skills needed to build positive and professional relationships.
Flatley said that the most common traits graduates face that are detrimental to their development are self-doubt, insecurity, and perfectionist tendencies. Mentors can help graduates to reset their expectations, normalise feelings, and provide reassurance, she said.
Graduates without a mentor will have to go through the processes of trial and error, she said, as opposed to learning from the experiences of seasoned law practitioners. For Flatley, this means that they may miss unique opportunities for growth and development.
A smoother transition from study to a career
Mentors help graduates explore their professional and personal goals and develop the confidence needed to thrive in their careers, Flatley said. Among many things, she said, mentors provide graduates with an opportunity to learn how to network with peers and practitioners in the legal community.
Through mentorship opportunities, Flatley said, graduates are shown opportunities to divert from the traditional legal path and explore a variety of other areas, such as in government, community legal centres, and not-for-profit organisations.
She said that graduates should look for a mentor who has strong people and communication skills, someone with the ability to support the wellbeing of a student, along with an understanding of the nuances of the legal profession.
Flatley said: “Students should not be confined to just one mentor. They should approach different mentors who offer a diverse range of insights and experiences throughout their career.”
“Students should look for alignment and authenticity, someone who is willing to share their insights and foster a relationship with them.”
Carlos Tse is a graduate journalist writing for Accountants Daily, HR Leader, Lawyers Weekly.
