If you’d have told me 20 years ago that I would now be working as a Legal Secretary, I would have laughed.
I always wanted to be a Medical Secretary, as I had always been interested in that sort of environment. So after college, my dream came true and I started to work at my local hospital as a relief Medical Secretary. I loved my job and looked forward to every working day.
When I met my future husband, I left the hospital and moved 250 miles south. I was offered a post as a Legal Secretary in the personal injury department of a local Solicitor’s office, and suffice to say, I wasn’t overly enthusiastic.
How wrong I was. My knowledge of medical terminology stood me in good stead; however, I must have annoyed my colleagues with endless questions regarding legal jargon and the whys and wherefores of legal practice!
In time, we decided to move back north and I secured a position in a local country firm of Solicitors, working for the partner in the commercial department. It was a real voyage of discovery, with the work being completely alien to me. Thankfully, with patient and helpful colleagues, I began to enjoy being part of a small but very busy department.
My role has now evolved since my boss retired two years ago. I am now fortunate to be in a position where a brand new department has been created, with my opinions and input being welcomed and encouraged.
It just goes to prove you should never judge a book by its cover. Take that opportunity; you never know where it might lead!
Lisa Dickerson FILS
ILSPA Fellowship Member