SIGNUM Managing Partner Sofiya Zhylkaidarova presented a guest lecture to KIMEP students

On 17 March 2017, KIMEP University hosted a guest lecture for graduate students called “Successful Lawyers: What Is Expected?” Sofiya Zhylkaidarova, the Managing Partner of SIGNUM Law Firm, lectured on the key qualities that are necessary for future Kazakh lawyers.

Sofiya started by addressing the difference between a “good” and “successful” lawyer. The qualities of a successful lawyer include professional skills, knowledge, and proficiency—as well as excellent communication skills. Sofiya used case stories to demonstrate the importance of professional speech and social communication. She discussed not only verbal communication, but also non-verbal (e.g., body language, voice, and emotional cues). Attorneys who strive to be successful in the practice of law must develop all of these abilities.

Next, Sofiya instructed the students about business ethics and the rules of professional discipline, as well as about conflict resolution. In this part of her lectured she also shared useful tips and gave advice gained from her personal experience.

Finally, Sofiya engaged in a short question-and-answer session with the students. She also expressed gratitude to KIMEP University management for organizing the meeting.