At Thompsons Solicitors, our people are the driving force behind our success. In this edition of Team Talks, we sit down with Legal Assistant Karen Shand to learn more about her incredible journey, what motivates her, and some of her most memorable moments at Thompsons Solicitors Scotland.
Introduction:
What’s your name and job title?
Karen Shand, Legal Assistant
How long have you been with Thompsons?
I have been with Thompsons for almost 38 years
Which team and office are you based in?
I am based in Edinburgh in General Accident
Background and Interests:
Where are you originally from?
I am Edinburgh born and bred.
Professional Journey:
What inspired you to pursue a career at Thompsons?
When I left school, I worked with Central Legal Office of the Scottish Health Service. You’ll laugh at this, I used to want to work for the then Robin Thompson & Partners as they also put reference numbers on letters.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I’ve only been dong my current role for a month. What I enjoy most is helping the clients. People should be able to go about their day whether at work or not without worrying about accidents. Cheesey, I know, but who doesn’t love cheese.
Memorable Moments:
Is there a project or case you’re particularly proud of?
The thing I am most proud about is from way back in my PH days. I used to be Frank Maguire's Clerk and he dealt with clients dying from asbestosis. Back then we had to get the Summons in and Served before the client sadly passed away, back then we often had to attend Court, often in Judge’s Chambers to have permission to raise action without the usual intimation dates. Frank was instrumental in getting the law changed so that if the client passed away then the family could have the claim.
Let's get to know Karen - Personal & Fun Questions
What are your hobbies or interests outside of work?
I used to attend the gym and do weights, sadly not done either for a long time. My goal is to get back to it. I enjoy reading and my main love is Mickey Mouse and visiting his theme parks.
What do you think makes the Thompsons team special?
The people at Thompsons are great, there’s aways someone to talk to.
Do you have any hidden talents or unusual skills?
I have a great memory for remembering absolute rubbish.
What’s something interesting about you that most people don’t know?
Everyone knows my interests lol.
What motivates you to do your best at work?
More cheese, helping clients. The majority of clients that I have dealt with are lovely and its not about making money, most just want someone to acknowledge that they weren’t to blame for the accident and say sorry.
Favourite book, movie, or TV show?
Favourite movie is an oldie, Imitation of Life with Lana Turner. If you don’t cry at the end you have a heart of stone.
Do you have a quote or mantra that inspires you?
Whatever you do, do it well. My grampa used to say that.
What advice would you give to someone starting at Thompsons?
Don’t ignore people in lower positions than you, they know a lot.
Any tips for maintaining a good work-life balance?
Don’t have work emails on your mobile so when you log out you are actually logged out.
Are you involved in any community or volunteer activities?
We have some elderly neighbours whose family are not in Edinburgh so on Fridays I regular visit for a cuppa & a blether.
What’s your dream travel destination?
My favourite travel destination is Walt Disney World, shocker I know
What are you watching on Netflix right now?
Just started Zero Day
What’s your most-played song on Spotify?
Everlasting Love by Love Affair
What’s your go-to meal deal?
Soup & butter roll/bread
