Katrin O'Sullivan's insights on building a solid foundation for future success
Katrin O’Sullivan’s career started conventionally. During her studies she undertook placements at King & Wood Mallesons and in the legal department at Telstra. But she had her eye elsewhere.
Following her graduation from a master’s degree at University College London, she embarked on career that took her from roles in the German Foreign Office and at the United Nations. In 2011 Katrin joined The Fred Hollows Foundation as their in-house General Counsel and was recently awarded the prestigious award of the 2024 "General Counsel of the Year” award.
She shares her top tips for a fulfilling career.
Overcoming imposter syndrome
Whether you’re new to an industry or moving up the ranks, imposter syndrome is a common experience. One alum just starting in their career asked Katrin which strategies she recommended for overcoming that feeling.
“Building self-confidence and overcoming impostor syndrome can be challenging, but there are several effective strategies and techniques to help you manage these feelings,” she says.
Katrin’s top 5 tips
Set achievable goals
“Breaking down larger objectives into smaller, manageable tasks can help you track progress and celebrate small wins.”
Focus on your strengths
“Take a skills inventory. Remind yourself regularly of what you excel at and use these strengths to build confidence in your abilities.”
Continuous learning
“Invest in learning and improving your skills through courses, workshops, and reading. The more knowledgeable and competent you become, the more confident you'll feel.”
Positive affirmations
“Use positive affirmations to counter negative self-talk. Repeating affirmations like "I am capable and competent" can help reprogram your mindset.”
Seek feedback
“Ask for feedback from trusted colleagues, mentors, or friends. Constructive criticism helps you identify areas for improvement and provides validation for your strengths.”
Building a network
Networking and building professional relationships are often emphasised as important aspects of a legal career. An alum asked, “What advice would you give to law students who are looking to expand their professional networks?”
For Katrin, actively engaging with the community is a good starting point. This could be anything from joining professional associations and attending industry events, to something as simple as leveraging your social media.
“Actively engage with posts, groups and discussions relevant to your field,” she says. “You can also connect with professionals you meet at events and follow industry leaders.”
Giving back to your professional community is also a great way to build relationships with like-minded people. Katrin recommends putting your hand up for committees or projects in professional organisations or volunteering for community service projects.
“This demonstrates commitment and allows you to work closely with others,” she says.
Likewise, Katrin recommends finding a mentor as a great way to both receive guidance and expand your network. You can also use it as an opportunity to give back.
“Offer to mentor junior professionals or students. This not only helps others, but also expands your network,” she says. “The University of Sydney has great mentorship opportunities, so leverage what’s on offer!”
Lastly, good networking etiquette is a must. Following up with personal and relevant messages, staying in touch, sharing relevant articles, and congratulating them on their achievements are all ways to build a genuine and authentic connection.
“Focus on building a two-way relationship,” says Katrin. “Show a genuine interest in others and avoid self-promotion.”
Maintain your balance
For some people, the demands of a law degree are intimidating enough to put them off for good. But for Katrin, they were worth it.
“I have found my legal career to be very rewarding but only because I was very clear in what would make me happy in the long run,” she says. “I think I would have been miserable or not grown to my full potential anywhere else.”
An alum asked how Katrin has maintained her work-life balance throughout her legal career.
Katrin recommends being honest and transparent with stakeholders about workloads and priorities to manage expectations and set the tone long-term.
“Sometimes we are our own worst enemy by setting the bar too high on our own expectations,” she says. “Just remember your career is a marathon not a sprint so you don't want to crash and burn along the way. Having a happy and energised productive employee is also in the best interest of your employer!"
