When to Start Your Job Hunt: Summer or Fall?

Answer:

Traditionally, the summer season (May through the 2nd or 3rd week of August) is the slowest hiring season of the year. Such slow down is typically the result of hiring managers at area firms focusing on summer associate hiring, placement, and acclimation and less on lateral hiring. In addition, partners and associates, who typically handle all interviewing at area firms, are much more difficult to nail down during the summer season due to vacations, sabbaticals, and any number of other distractions which tear them away from their jobs.


Thus, even if one were to obtain an interview during these months, it will sometimes take a week or two for the firm to organize an interview schedule as it must work around its people's vacation plans and other firm absences. Thus, rather than submitting a resume during the summer season, I typically suggest refraining from submitting your resume during these months (unless, of course, a job is particularly ''hot'' and the firm at issue has requested immediate resumes). Looking forward then, when should one submit their resume to a firm during the summer season? The answer to that question rests in understanding the ''fall hiring season.'' The fall hiring season is the busiest time of the year. It typically opens up the 2nd or 3rd week of August (once the summer associates depart) and lasts until the 2nd week of December (just prior to holiday season beginning). Thus, in order to take advantage of this uptick in hiring, candidates should focus on submitting their resumes around the 1st or 2nd week of August.

This will ensure that you are right on target - timing-wise - for the fall hiring period. It will also ensure that your resume is fresh on the hiring managers' desk - and not sitting there since June. Also, submitting your resume during this time period will mean that your resume is being reviewed at the same time that area firms are listing a host of new job openings. So, your timing for one or more opening(s) may be perfect. Thus, again, unless a job is particular ''active'' or ''hot'' which requires you to submit now (and there are, in fact, a few such openings), I would spend the summer getting your resume, deal sheet or representative case list, and law school transcript together and updated and focus on making submissions the 1st/2nd week of August. Such approach will give you the best advantage in today's market.
 

About Harrison Barnes

Harrison Barnes is a prominent figure in the legal placement industry, known for his expertise in attorney placements and his extensive knowledge of the legal profession.

With over 25 years of experience, he has established himself as a leading voice in the field and has helped thousands of lawyers and law students find their ideal career paths.

Barnes is a former federal law clerk and associate at Quinn Emanuel and a graduate of the University of Chicago College and the University of Virginia Law School. He was a Rhodes Scholar Finalist at the University of Chicago and a member of the University of Virginia Law Review. Early in his legal career, he enrolled in Stanford Business School but dropped out because he missed legal recruiting too much.

Barnes' approach to the legal industry is rooted in his commitment to helping lawyers achieve their full potential. He believes that the key to success in the legal profession is to be proactive, persistent, and disciplined in one's approach to work and life. He encourages lawyers to take ownership of their careers and to focus on developing their skills and expertise in a way that aligns with their passions and interests.

One of how Barnes provides support to lawyers is through his writing. On his blog, HarrisonBarnes.com, and BCGSearch.com, he regularly shares his insights and advice on a range of topics related to the legal profession. Through his writing, he aims to empower lawyers to control their careers and make informed decisions about their professional development.

One of Barnes's fundamental philosophies in his writing is the importance of networking. He believes that networking is a critical component of career success and that it is essential for lawyers to establish relationships with others in their field. He encourages lawyers to attend events, join organizations, and connect with others in the legal community to build their professional networks.

Another central theme in Barnes' writing is the importance of personal and professional development. He believes that lawyers should continuously strive to improve themselves and develop their skills to succeed in their careers. He encourages lawyers to pursue ongoing education and training actively, read widely, and seek new opportunities for growth and development.

In addition to his work in the legal industry, Barnes is also a fitness and lifestyle enthusiast. He sees fitness and wellness as integral to his personal and professional development and encourages others to adopt a similar mindset. He starts his day at 4:00 am and dedicates several daily hours to running, weightlifting, and pursuing spiritual disciplines.

Finally, Barnes is a strong advocate for community service and giving back. He volunteers for the University of Chicago, where he is the former area chair of Los Angeles for the University of Chicago Admissions Office. He also serves as the President of the Young Presidents Organization's Century City Los Angeles Chapter, where he works to support and connect young business leaders.

In conclusion, Harrison Barnes is a visionary legal industry leader committed to helping lawyers achieve their full potential. Through his work at BCG Attorney Search, writing, and community involvement, he empowers lawyers to take control of their careers, develop their skills continuously, and lead fulfilling and successful lives. His philosophy of being proactive, persistent, and disciplined, combined with his focus on personal and professional development, makes him a valuable resource for anyone looking to succeed in the legal profession.

About BCG Attorney Search

BCG Attorney Search matches attorneys and law firms with unparalleled expertise and drive, while achieving results. Known globally for its success in locating and placing attorneys in law firms of all sizes, BCG Attorney Search has placed thousands of attorneys in law firms in thousands of different law firms around the country. Unlike other legal placement firms, BCG Attorney Search brings massive resources of over 150 employees to its placement efforts locating positions and opportunities its competitors simply cannot. Every legal recruiter at BCG Attorney Search is a former successful attorney who attended a top law school, worked in top law firms and brought massive drive and commitment to their work. BCG Attorney Search legal recruiters take your legal career seriously and understand attorneys. For more information, please visit www.BCGSearch.com.