Samantha Petersen
Director, Real Estate & Property

What has been the most rewarding experience in your career so far?

My promotion to Director in this firm. That may seem somewhat superficial but while others had dreams of opening their own law firms or leaving practice, I’ve always known that I wanted to be a Director at a reputable law firm and all my actions and efforts have been geared towards that. The extra hours, furthering my education, the manner in which I attend to my work was all geared toward my growth. But me wanting something (no matter how badly), does not necessarily translate into it happening. It was thus very rewarding to get stamp of approval from my fellow partners and to know that all my efforts were not in vain.

How do you overcome challenges and stay resilient in the face of adversity?

In answering this question, there are 3 things that you must know about me: I don’t like to fail. I enjoy success. I prefer to be ahead. Because of this ‘focusing on the goal and the reason for the goal’ has always been an effective way of overcoming challenges and adversity. The result is something of a two-edged sword: If I’m behind, I’m pushed to catch up (try to find more fees in the work that I have, or be more innovative in my marketing pursuits). If I’m on target or ahead, I’m driven to push further. This method has served me well thus far.

What is one piece of advice you would give to your younger self starting out in this industry?

STOP WORRYING ABOUT WHAT OTHER PEOPLE THINK! Looking back now I see so many hesitations, procrastinations and delays which were as a direct result of my concern for the thoughts of others. I do believe that everything happens for a reason and I have no doubt that there were little lessons and silver linings in each of those experiences (although none come to mind at this moment) but I can also see how this character trait failed to serve me well at times. This is not to say that one should be self-absorbed with no consideration for anyone else - There are good healthy limits to everything. So in essence I would say: “Sam, be brave, be bold, ask questions and enjoy this journey.”

What key qualities do you believe have contributed to your success in your career?

I’m pedantic (Ironically, I think that my worrying about what other people thought contributed to this quality. #silverlining) and the ‘cross your T’s and dot your I’s’ type of personality generally fairs very well in my area of law. I’m also willing to push the boundaries of my comfort zone which may not always be a pleasant experience for me but it promotes growth and development and has pushed me further than I would ever have been had I remained in my comfort zone.

Who has been your biggest mentor or inspiration in your career, and why?

My current team leader (and I’m not just saying that because she’s my current team leader!). She has given me a very good example of a good leader. The type of leader who criticizes with respect, never forgets to compliment and praise when its due, defends you fiercely, is not afraid to admit her own shortcomings and trusts her team.