She also shares a challenge she encountered early in her career that taught her to back herself
When asked the question of what they consider to be the most important thing they got involved in recently, many lawyers highlight work-related achievements. But Wendy Smith chose to answer differently.
The recently promoted DLA Piper special counsel instead highlighted her involvement in her daughter’s first year of schooling – drop-offs and pick-ups and class outings. In the first part of this interview, Smith tells NZ Lawyer why these moments matter so much to her, and shares a work story from early in her career that gave her a lot of confidence as a lawyer.
What made you choose a career in law, and what's your favourite part of the job?
From a young age I was told I'd make a good lawyer because I was good at arguing. I hate being told what to do so then resisted a law degree. But I worked as a legal executive, and during that time worked with and for some incredible women who really gave me the confidence to start a law degree. They taught me the fundamentals, trusted me with work beyond my experience, and had confidence in me before I fully had it in myself.
And my favourite part of the job continues to be the people – both my colleagues and clients. Getting to know them and helping them with whatever it is they are trying to achieve that day, month or year.
What in your opinion has been the most memorable event of your career to date?
When I was a relatively junior lawyer, I was challenged quite strongly by a very senior member of an organisation on what, for me, was a red book issue. Fortunately, because I'd received good advice early in my career to be prepared for these moments, and had a supportive team around me, I had the confidence to stand my ground. In the end, the person commended my approach, and I now realise what a formative experience that was. Those situations don't always work out so well, but fortunately this one did. It taught me to back myself, and I've found it progressively easier to do so ever since.
What in your opinion was the most important thing you got involved in over the past year?
For me, it's been being involved in my daughter's first year at school. Being at a couple of drop-offs and pick-ups a week, helping with class outings, and even participating in a hui with the Ministry of Education that ultimately contributed to a significant change in the Ministry's approach to an issue. Many parents and whānau don't have the choice to do those things and I'm incredibly fortunate to work with colleagues and clients who understand how important that involvement is to me and support it, knowing that I will still deliver on client expectations.
If you could relive one day in your life, which day would it be and why?
Any Sunday. It's usually the day I get to spend the most time with my kids, which, to be honest, is the most exhausting but also the most rewarding.
