Career Stories | Viktor Saavola, Senior Associate, Dispute Resolution, Helsinki

How did you end up working at Hannes Snellman?

I applied for an open position in Hannes Snellman’s Dispute Resolution team and joined in May 2020. Before joining Hannes Snellman, I worked for a boutique law firm specialising in dispute resolution, where I had also worked as a trainee before graduating in 2018.

What was your first impression of Hannes Snellman?

In general, my first impression of Hannes Snellman was that the people working here take a serious and invested approach to their work, while simultaneously maintaining a relaxed atmosphere. Everyone is very dedicated to their work, but at the same time they are extremely welcoming and approachable. Even during these exceptional times, communication has been effortless and seamless while working remotely.

What expectations do you have for working at Hannes Snellman?

I look forward to working with challenging assignments together with amazing professionals. Based on what I have experienced so far, while working for Hannes Snellman, I will be surrounded by extremely supportive and inspiring colleagues, who encourage you to challenge their way of thinking or to provide alternative approaches.

As a member of the Dispute Resolution team, in the short time I have been here, I have already been involved in several assignments of very different kinds. I have no doubt that I will be able to work with varying tasks in the future as well, which will provide great opportunity for me to grow and learn, while also keeping things interesting.

In your opinion, what skills are required of a good lawyer?

From the perspective of a dispute resolution focused lawyer working at a law firm, decision-making is a valuable skill. It may come more naturally for some, but I certainly consider it a skill that can be honed through experience. In the end, our clients come to us for clear recommendations or instructions on how to approach any given issue. Simply presenting the different alternatives and the underlying law is rarely enough or what the client is looking for. This is where one’s decision-making skills come into play: choosing the best alternative with the client’s best interests in mind. Having the necessary knowledge of the relevant legislation and case law is of course paramount in order to be able to provide an analysis of the issue at hand in the first place.

On a more general level, communication skills are also essential. Whether you are arguing your case in a court room or negotiating the terms of an acquisition in a conference room, being clear and convincing in your verbal output goes a long way towards building your case and working towards the goal of fulfilling your client’s interests. Being clear in your written communication skills is equally important.

What is the best career advice you have received?

Forcing yourself out of your comfort zone on a constant basis is the best way to ensure continued professional and personal growth.

Want to know more about working at Hannes Snellman? Please pay a visit to our Careers section.