After taking a career break to raise my two children, I explored various administration roles, but I quickly realised I’m a people person at heart and that I missed face-to-face interaction.
That’s when I joined a large law firm as a Facilities Assistant. The role was wonderfully varied, and I especially enjoyed setting up for events and organising festive celebrations like Christmas lunches. It was a role that played to my strengths. However, when the pandemic reshaped the nature of the job, I found myself ready for a new challenge.
One day, while driving past the Awdry Law Swindon office, I had a spontaneous thought: “I wonder if they’re hiring?” As luck would have it, they were. From the moment I stepped into the office for my interview, I felt an immediate sense of belonging. I was fortunate to be offered the role as a receptionist, and from day one, I never felt like “the new person”—the welcome was very warm.
One of the most rewarding aspects of working as a receptionist is being the first point of contact and creating a friendly, professional atmosphere (with a light-hearted joke or two!) that helps clients feel at ease during what can sometimes be stressful situations.
Drawing on my facilities background, I also support the Office Manager with day-to-day operations, ensuring everything runs smoothly. One of the highlights of my role has been helping to host Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce events in the Swindon office as collaborating with colleagues to make these events a success is incredibly rewarding.
In addition to this, last year, I had the opportunity to work alongside the Marketing Manager on the Awdry Law Golf Day at Bowood in support of Julia’s House Children’s Hospice. It was a fantastic day that raised significant funds for a wonderful cause (over £20,000). I also helped organise and volunteered at several Christmas light switch-on events, some of which were firsts for us. There were a few learning curves, but each one helped raise our profile and were good to connect with colleagues and get in the festive spirit.
Day to day, I also assist various departments with dictation and admin tasks. I love how varied my role is and how it continues to evolve. So, with the support from everyone here, who knows what I’ll be doing in the next three and a half years—but I’m excited to find out!
