I’m Gabriel Okei and I’m a client experience expert here.
Moving to the UK was the best decision of my life. I wanted to build my skills and develop my knowledge. This role has allowed me to excel, while delivering exceptional service for a variety of clients.
I love life at Irwin Mitchell and I’d encourage anyone considering a role here to join me. Let me tell you why…
A life changing move
I was a barrister and solicitor at a law firm in Nigeria. I worked with clients from different backgrounds to understand their problems and find the best possible solutions for them.
I moved to the UK to continue my legal career. I did a master’s degree in Medical Law and Ethics to get a better understanding of the different areas within the legal sector. Even though the common law is similar in the UK to Nigeria, it’s practiced and applied differently here, which I found very interesting.
The first impression
I’m the first contact clients have with the firm, so it’s important I provide an excellent service and highlight the benefits of having us on their side. I gather information about their case to see if they have a claim. My legal background allows me to empathise with what are clients are going through.
Supporting our clients is one of the most rewarding elements of working here. I feel extremely satisfied when I’ve been able to support a client with their concern, no matter how big or small. Being the person, they seek comfort in and knowing I can help in some way is really fulfilling.
It can sometimes be difficult to have conversations over the phone. I make this easier by building trust with the client, creating a relaxed atmosphere, for example by talking about their favourite football team, or something else they can relate to. I also reassure them that I understand what they’re going through and I’ll do my very best to support them to find the answers they need.
Our team is diverse which allows us to connect with clients from a range of backgrounds. I speak multiple languages and it’s great to be able to discuss issues in a client’s native language when they’re feeling their most vulnerable.
Supported and understood
As a junior member of the team, I feel supported and understood by my peers. They push me out of my comfort zone and encourage me to be the best version of myself. My team are like a family to me. The training we receive is also extremely beneficial and I know I can always ask my colleagues for help. My growth and progression are prioritised, and I feel like I’m a really valued team member.
Just getting started
In the future, I’d like to get more involved in the medical negligence department, because it’s an area of law I find particularly interesting. I have lots of support from my team leader, who’s introduced me people in that team. It’s allowed me to start building relationships with colleagues, who’ve offered me practical career advice.
Having the opportunity to develop my career through the training contract here is important and help me reach my goal of becoming a solicitor.
Join us
If you’d like to work in a company that values you for who you are and encourages career progression within a supportive work environment, then I’d really recommend joining Irwin Mitchell. It’s such a friendly and driven place to work.
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