Meet the recruiter

Name:

Zena Comrie

What is your job title?

HR Executive

What does your job involve?

Trainees, trainees, trainees! I am involved in the recruitment process and thereafter, right through to when trainees qualify. I review applications, organise assessment centres and open days, attend law fairs and keep in touch with trainees both before and after they start. I also answer any queries we receive about trainee recruitment.

Who is in your team?

I work with Philippa Shorthouse, who is the HR Advisor. She is an expert on what it is like to be a trainee as she has been there herself!

How long have you worked at Browne Jacobson?

Six years, which has flown by so quickly! I came to the firm on a temporary contract, whilst undertaking my degree. In that time I got involved in trainee recruitment and then got the opportunity to stay with the firm permanently. I have not looked back since.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Seeing how much trainees develop from the first time you meet them at an assessment centre through to them becoming newly qualified solicitors. It's great to be part of their development, and it also means that the trainees have a familiar and friendly face if they have any queries.

What do you look for in a trainee?

We look for individuals with the potential to become a solicitor with us. Legal work experience is always a benefit to applicants as it demonstrates their interest and experience. Good academics are a must alongside personal attributes such as commercial awareness and enthusiasm.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about applying to Browne Jacobson?

If you want to work for a firm that is committed to developing its trainees and which ensure trainees get the most out of their training contract, then look no further and apply!

Top Tips - attending assessment centres:

• Be on time – first sign of good time management!

• Be yourself and relax! Do not try to project a ‘false’ image – you'll have to keep it up for a long time!

• Don’t try to guess at the attributes that the assessors are looking for. People with different interactive styles can perform equally well in the exercises.

• Talk, we are unable to assess your skills if you don't speak - ensure you put your point across in group discussions and bear in mind that the quality of what you say is more important than the quantity.

• If you know you will be having psychometric testing, practice beforehand - you may find the following website useful http://www.shldirect.com/.

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