Jennifer Allen, National Communications Manager of Business Development for Borden Ladner Gervais LLP

Submitted by haley on Mon, 08/17/2009 - 18:08.

National Communications Manager of Business Development for Borden Ladner Gervais LLP, a downtown law firm.

What does a typical Thursday look like for you, starting from when you wake up – to heading to bed?

My BlackBerry usually starts going off around 7:30a.m., at which time I try to ignore it for 10 minutes and then give up. Next, it’s time to wake up my Boston Terrier (not an easy task when sleeping is her favourite pastime), get dressed, and take her outside for her morning stroll. After the dog is tucked in on the chaise with a cookie, it’s time to walk down to Rosedale station to catch the subway, all whilst answering e-mails on the way. Getting in line at Starbucks is first priority when arriving in the financial district and then it’s a five-minute walk from there to my 45th-floor office (which makes you get over your fear of heights quite quickly!). By 9a.m., I’m usually caught up on e-mails, so I spend some time reviewing the Firm’s media reports to see what sort of coverage we’ve been receiving. Then, depending on which Thursday it is, my day could involve anything from developing content for the Firm’s website, to advancing social media presence, meeting with a partner about an article he or she is writing for a magazine or newspaper or liaising with our public relations agency. Every day at a law firm is different, which keeps me on my toes (and requires me to caffeinate every so often). No matter how hectic my day, I always try and get home at a reasonable time to spend time with my dog – even if it means taking my laptop home with me, which happens often. Then, I grab a quick bite to eat and head off to meet my running group (a great way to unwind and reflect on your day!). I’m back home by 8 p.m. and proceed to finish up any outstanding work from the day, catch up on PVR’d shows, chat with my girlfriends and then, collapse into bed by 11p.m. to wake up and do it all over again.

What was your first job out of school?

I graduated in Journalism from Ryerson University and interned at The Look magazine, a glossy quarterly about fashion, beauty, style and the arts. It was a fabulous experience because I was able to get involved in everything – from copy-editing and fact-checking to writing and attending photo shoots and fashion events.

What are the 3 skills you require most to do your job well?

1. Ability to thrive in a fast-paced setting
2. Determination and a “can-do” attitude
3. Need I say it? Fabulous communication skills!

What do you love most about your career?

That no two days are alike. Every day presents a different set of challenges and rising to those challenges can be extremely fulfilling.

Do you have any warnings?

Don’t delve into a career unless you’re passionate about what it is you’d be doing on a day-to-day basis. If you love what you do, it shows and success will come.

If you could try a different career on for a year, what would it be?

If Anna Wintour was hiring her replacement, I certainly wouldn’t be adverse to taking over the helm of Vogue – as if! I’ve always had a fondness for magazines and fashion – not to mention travelling around the world and being outfitted in only the most gorgeous clothes!