In celebration of International Women’s Day, we share the thoughts about International Women’s Day and practising law in-house from five of our members.
Sharon Eacott
General Counsel & Company Secretary, Alinta Energy
What does International Women’s Day mean to you and is it important that we have one? It’s a reminder to everyone that diversity improves organisation and community outcomes. I think it’s really important for people to feel included and that their contribution is valued. This then gives people the confidence to speak up, share their ideas and experience. There’s been many instances in my career where I felt like I was the odd one out – only woman at the table, querying the rationale for an approach or practice or having a different view. I understand how hard it can be to speak up in those cases.
The theme for International Women’s Day this year “balance for better – balance drives a better working world” resonates strongly with me. Balance is so important not just in terms of gender representation across the profession, particularly in leadership roles, but also balance when it comes to the way in which we live and work and to have a more balanced view of success. It’s fair to say that the legal profession, particularly corporate law, is not known for balance. For me it’s been a learning process. There have been times in my career where balance has been lacking and I adopted a picture of success based on what I saw, probably because I didn’t feel empowered or confident enough to do something different.
What are some of the great things about being a woman in law? I think women have a real opportunity to make an impact in the law. The best lawyers listen actively and bring a different perspective to solve problems or enhance outcomes. Given the demographic of the legal profession, I think anyone who can bring a different perspective, including women, can make significant impact. I think that is true for anyone who comes from a different cultural, socio-economic or gender background.
When I reflect on the standout female lawyers that I have worked with, they have had a passion for their work, been brave and not embraced the status quo and fostered great team culture, by being open, spending time with their team and supporting their development.
Law has historically been a male-dominated industry however the number of females practising law is increasing. Do you see this in your line of work? The most recent statistics I saw in this area stated that women now outnumber men in the profession. I am keen to understand the female retention rates and particularly how that translates to females in leadership or senior positions in the profession.
From my experience and perspective, which is corporate and commercial law, including as a partner of leading law firm, the legal working environment and leadership model emphasises a hierarchy which results in a disempowerment of junior members of the team. That coupled with a narrow definition of success means that if you can’t identify with the purpose of the organisation or the leadership team, there is a greater possibility that you will opt out.
Based on your own experience, what advice would you give to women considering pursuing a career as an in-house lawyer? Do it! I’ve really enjoyed the transition, but I suggest that people think about what motivates them and what they want out of a role. Organisations come in all shapes and sizes – different objectives, cultures, ways of working and risk appetites. Do your due diligence before taking a role and speak to others at the organisation by using your networks. This about your style and what you find fulfilling. Once you’re in the role, be brave and have a view – you are more than a lawyer but a counsel to your organisation and can bring great value.
Women are often asked to make choices about their work, and they ask ‘why’ more often. Many of my female colleagues have chosen different paths and in-house roles that have better balance. These organisations allow the lawyer to feel like they are making an impact without having to sacrifice their personal life in the process.
What is the driving force behind everything you do…what keeps you motivated and driven on an everyday basis? The ability to make change and shape better outcomes.
Who has been the biggest influence of your success? Probably my parents. They instilled the value of hard work, independence, critical thinking and self-reliance.
Who are your female icons? I don’t have any famous icons as such. I’m more inspired by individual acts and approaches by people I work with every day. For example, I recently worked with a senior female executive and director who taught me the importance of listening and acting on your intuition. A really important skill – as sometimes the day to day noise can drown out your ‘gut feel’.
How you define women empowerment? Empowerment is being able to be yourself in any situation – without having to change your views or behaviours to fit in to be successful.
What message would you like to leave for both men and women on International Women’s Day? Look at the groups you engage with and ask are they diverse? And if not, ask why and what can be done to change that. Balance is better.
