Sophie Wardell

Q2 2024 Q&A

8 July 2024. At the time: People Director.

When did you decide to start to use LinkedIn to share posts and why?

I joined LinkedIn way back in 2005 mainly using it as a recruitment tool.

I only discovered the power of posting about 12 months ago when I wrote a post about alcohol and Christmas parties which had over 122,000 impressions.

I found it staggering and realised how much more I could do to with the platform to promote DEI, wellbeing and positive leadership.

Why do you think your posts encourage your followers to comment and engage?

I hope they find honesty in my posts as well as something human and relatable. I try to speak from the heart and, wherever possible, I acknowledge and reply to what they share back.

I am always genuinely grateful.

How do you keep thinking of new things to share about?

In truth, my mind never stops, my family, friends and colleagues would all agree! I have found LinkedIn to be a source of great inspiration but I love to read, I find comfort in words.

Have you had any breakthrough results as a result of using the platform?

My intention has been to amplify the Higgs brand while sharing views and highlighting issues that affect many people.

I have been touched by some of the many messages I have received from strangers sharing their stories and their thanks.

There are certainly more colleagues posting on LinkedIn than ever before, I wish to lead by example.

Has the firm been supportive of what you're doing and - assuming it has - what lessons could other law firms learn from Higgs?

Very. The firm's culture is extremely supportive.

In terms of lessons other law firms could learn?

I understand that some firms discourage lawyers from interacting with posts shared by competitor firms, I find that bizarre. Surely we have so much to learn from each other? It can also really benefit those early in their career by boosting their confidence.

What would you say to firms/leaders/business professionals that are hesitant about getting going on LinkedIn?

You are missing out.

There is a very generous community on LinkedIn and being part of it enables you to connect with colleagues, clients, emerging talent and business partners across the world. The potential is almost limitless.

Do you get involved in training others on how to use the platform?

It is a work in progress at the moment, I am just willing there to be more hours in the day!

Who should we keep an eye out for in future? Do you have any future social media stars in the making?

Within Higgs, I think Pete Humpherson, Sasha Lloyd, Lauren Moult and Reanne Upton are really flying the flag.

Which creators would other legal sector professionals be wise to follow?

I'm sure many will feature in the Top 20!

In terms of rising stars, I would keep an eye on Fabian Murray, Charlie Moore, Emma Geale and Ines Ouadah. Each of them has a unique voice and important perspective.

Alice Kinder also makes a significant and valuable contribution.