On Saturday 17 September the Junior Lawyers Division NQ Forum took place in Liverpool organised by the JLD Executive committee.  It was the first time that forum has taken place outside London and it was attended by newly qualified solicitors from across the country.

Jude Perkins, Chair of the JLD, opened the forum welcoming delegates to Liverpool.  Kevin Poulter, associate at Bircham Dyson Solicitors spoke to the forum about how to manage personal brand using social media.  Kevin highlighted the benefits of using social media at the start of your career to develop your client network but also warned of the pitfalls of not maintaining a professional image when using the form.

Ann Charlton from LawCare addressed the forum about ways in which junior lawyers could manage stress.  She stated it was important that junior lawyers realise when they are feeling stressed and address the issue accordingly.  LawCare offer health support to students, trainees, solicitors and their families.  They run a free confidential helpline 0800 279 6888.  More information about stress management is available at www.lawcare.org.uk. 

Peter Wright, associate at Howes Percival solicitors, offered the forum some top tips about how best to manage time in the office, maximise productivity and achieve a work/life balance.  Richard May from M & M Associates then spoke about effective presentation and PowerPoint skills providing useful guidance for planning, preparing and presenting with PowerPoint.  Debra Hughes from Eversheds rounded up the day speaking to delegates about what firms look for when they are recruiting newly qualified solicitors and offered helpful guidance on the topic.

Hekim Hannan, Vice-Chair, brought the forum to a close and invited delegates to attend a networking drinks reception which provided a great opportunity to speak to newly qualified solicitors from across the country.  Despite an early start on a Saturday morning, the event hosted by BPP, was a great success and proved to be very worthwhile to all that attended.

For more information about the national JLD and up and coming events JLD visit http://juniorlawyers.lawsociety.org.uk.