In this special episode we are joined by Andrew White – who shares his learning of how to be “client-focused” from more than 20 years as a partner at a City law firm – with many years of experience spent delivering client advisory projects, and also client-facing learning programmes.

Andrew discusses what are the “perennial truths” of client service, things which have not changed, and also the “new”: what is becoming even more important for client in 2026 (and beyond), which their advisers need to understand? Practical tips and ideas on different aspects of being “client-focused” are given on a range of topics – including how one needs to think very carefully about communication styles and strategies.

The episode also covers the special importance of the “human touch” in personalising one’s service – to show one has truly listened to a client. Andrew then discusses a number of practical strategies for developing key commercial and client-facing skills, ranging from critical thinking to story-telling. As a final take-away, Andrew also offers three key areas for lawyers to keep in mind: “VAR” – the important link between client-service and one’s “Values”, managing new “AI” tools as part of client service, and the importance of “Reflection”.

Actions and resources for listeners:
· Read this blog on “the Human Touch” – is there anything you would add to Andrew’s list in the article of what are the critical elements?
· Can you be too “client-focused” as a lawyer? Read this article and consider 2 points on each side of the argument!

In this special episode we are joined by Anne Chitan and Dan Tench, Partners at CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang LLP, and experts in the legal issues related to the fast-developing area of Quantum Technologies. The team discuss what “Quantum Technologies” are, and why they are becoming increasingly important to lawyers and their clients now.

In this special episode we are joined by Anne Chitan and Dan Tench, Partners at CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang LLP, and experts in the legal issues related to the fast-developing area of Quantum Technologies. The team discuss what “Quantum Technologies” are, and why they are becoming increasingly important to lawyers and their clients now – especially Quantum Computing and its applications.

Anne discusses how legal issues relating to Quantum Technologies can arise different industry sectors ranging from transportation to healthcare and financial services, exploring both the legal and commercial risks.

Dan explores how practically Quantum Technologies can impact both organisations and individuals in areas ranging from data security and encryption to potential liabilities for technology service providers.

Both guests also consider which areas of legal practice bring skills and experience which can support clients in this area.

The conversation touches on the wide range of stakeholders potentially impacted – “horizon-scanning” to think about how this technology (and the legal issues surrounding it) are likely to impact governments, the public and society as a whole in the near future.

Actions and resources for listeners:
· Read this blog on Quantum Technologies – what would you consider the biggest 2 risks, and the 2 biggest opportunities, from adoption of this technology? And what are the key legal issues?
· Research and consider 3 different organisations (including both public and private sector ones) you think will need legal support on Quantum Technology issues in the next 2-3 years. What legal advice would they need, specifically?

In Part 2 of this special episode we are joined by Louise Carreras, Simon Reichwald, and Nigel Spencer, talent development experts in the legal sector. The guests share their insights on how students and early career lawyers can best develop – and demonstrate – “commercial awareness”. The team discuss what “commercial awareness” means in 2025, what employers are now looking for when you apply for a job, and the importance of building good habits to develop your readiness to succeed in the workplace. Louise, Simon and Nigel talk about how employers are now wanting people to demonstrate “work readiness”, and describe the daily behaviours which will demonstrate this capability in a work environment. Also discussed is how you can find examples of “work readiness” from your different previous experiences either whilst you are studying or in previous job roles. Finally, Louise talks about how employers review job applications and what they are seeking in the different recruitment exercises they design, giving tips on how the succeed with your job applications – and then thrive once you begin a job. Actions and resources for listeners:

· Explore one of the free “job simulations” at Forage – to demonstrate you are commercial, and “work ready” for the organization you selected, what skills do you think you need to demonstrate?
· Try one of the “Virtual Work Experience” programmes at Springpod – What did you learn about the organization? Did anything surprise you? What did you really like?
· Check the blog “Is commercial awareness really that important?” from law firm Shoosmiths. How many of the 5 tips listed there do you do already to develop your “commercial awareness”? Which tip could you do more of in the next month?