Dealing with Rejection

The job search process is far more personal than many of us realize. We don't think about how much our self-worth is tied to our identity as attorneys, and how much a rejection can make us feel worth less. If you are like most of us, you know what you're worth. You are pleased when people ask you what you do, where you work, and what type of law you practice. And when you don't take the time to realize that you're proud of who you are professionally, a rejection from a law firm you interviewed with can be especially devastating.


Let's take a step back and think about what may have happened, and what to do next.

1.    Understand that the firm has more information than you have.

Very often, both associates and partners will tell me that XYZ firm is "the perfect fit" for them. This is usually based on nothing more than the actual job posting, which I sent them. After candidates get an interview, they may do research on the firm, but information is usually pretty limited. A firm may have a reputation as a great place to work; that is easy enough to ascertain. But whether the work that the firm needs done coincides with your skill set and interests is not something you can necessarily know. The firm certainly knows what it needs; but they won't necessarily share it with you. This is by design. They don't want candidates to alter their presentation of themselves for the firm's benefit, so firms do not always advertise for exactly what they need. Instead, they advertise for general skills, and have you honestly tell them what you can do, without knowing what they truly need, and if your skills line up with what they need, they will hire you. You are in the unfortunate position of flying blind. A good recruiter will know general information about the firm's practice,but only the firm's partners know the details of the particular need at that moment. You are not in a position to determine whether the firm is perfect for you, because you do not really know what the firm is looking for. Therefore, when a firm interviews and rejects you, remind yourself that there is probably more going on than you realize; and that they are simply looking for some skill that you don't happen to have, or don't have enough of.

2.    Understand that you don't know what other factors came into play in the firm's decision.

Many times, attorney shave returned hopeful and exhilarated after a fantastic interview, only to be rejected without explanation. This can be devastating for the attorney. Keep in mind that any of the following factors, which have nothing to do with you, could have arisen, leading the firm to reject you. For example, the firm may have learned that a partner or group is leaving, and taking business. This changes the firm's fiscal landscape significantly, and also alters the sources of the firm's work, leading them to decide to wait before hiring, or not to hire at all. However, firms learn of these changes before they disclose them to the public, and that includes you (and me, your recruiter). This is one example of why a firm may reject you without providing a reason; although there is a reason, the firm is not a position to share it. A similar example would be when the firm either loses a client or fears that it may lose a client. Even if it isn't a client that you might work with, any change that affects the firm's bottom line may keep that firm from bringing on another attorney. Or, the firm might have entered into merger discussions, which may limit its ability to bring anyone else on. All of these situations will not be made public, so you will probably never know what really happened.

3.    Move on, and prepare for more great interviews.

No matter what the real reason for your mysterious rejection from a firm you were excited about joining, you need to not take it personally, and you need to move on. You are just as valuable as you were before, and a rejection likely has nothing to do with you being great at what you do. Instead, either there simply wasn't a match between your skill set and the firm's needs, or something internal happened in the firm that you are not privy to. Take the opportunity to use the interview as practice. Think about answers that you could have given more effectively, and practice giving them out loud. Talk to your recruiter about any interview concerns. But most of all, stay positive, and remember what you're worth going into each interview. If you keep at it and remember that you are a valuable addition to the right firm, an excellent match will come up and you will be prepared.

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.