BWB&O is proud to introduce its employee highlight of the month, Shawn Reutter! Shawn Reutter grew up in Long Island, New York, and moved to California as a teenager. She began her legal journey during high school when she interviewed for her very first job at a law firm in Simi Valley and began working as a receptionist and file clerk. The firm quickly recognized the potential for Shawn to grow within the company and offered to pay her way through Watterson College, where she earned a Paralegal Degree. After receiving a degree, Shawn gained experience in various practice areas such as wills and trusts, family law, criminal defense, and insurance defense.
Prior to working for BWB&O, Shawn took a couple of years off work to raise her two children, who influenced her decision to go back to school and pursue an education in child development. While working part-time and also attending night classes, Shawn earned a certificate to teach preschool. She eventually returned to the legal field.
Shawn’s journey led her to BWB&O’s Los Angeles office, where she was interviewed by Partners John O’Meara and Patrick Au, hired as a Legal Secretary, and has continued to work directly with Partner Patrick Au for the last 16 years!
Q: How has your experience at BWB&O helped you in your career development?
A: Working with diverse colleagues over the years has not only allowed me to grow professionally but it has made a huge impact on my career development. I’ve had the pleasure of working with individuals from different backgrounds, a wide range of age groups, and varied levels of experience. This has given me the tools to be a team player and helped me to hone my leadership skills.
Q: What have been your most meaningful accomplishments so far?
A: Becoming computer literate or “tech savvy” while working at BWB&O has been one of my biggest accomplishments and has helped with my productivity.
Q: What methods do you use to stay motivated and focused?
A: While working, I benefit from having light music play in the background as it helps me to focus. I also set deadlines for each goal and triple-check my to-do lists on a daily basis. Once 3:00 PM hits, I stop everything I’m working on and circle back to my list. From there, I spend the rest of the day executing time-sensitive projects.
Q: How do you manage your time effectively to maintain a healthy work/life balance? What are some fun ways that you disconnect and recharge?
A: BWB&O has facilitated a work schedule that allows me to spend time on volunteer work that I’m passionate about. In turn, having that work-life balance has been good for my mental health and well-being. During my time off on the weekends, I enjoy using the Peloton, shopping, going on hikes, and most importantly being with my husband and children.
A special thank you to Shawn for sharing her experience on her road to success!