Relocating During a Tough Economic Times

When the economy takes a downturn, as we are currently experiencing, many candidates who are looking for work will consider relocating in order to find a job. This is often a very necessary and successful means of finding work in a down economy. Still, there are important factors one must consider before making the decision to broaden a job search to include multiple regions.


Some factors to consider include:

• The Bar Exam. In a down economy, law firms often find themselves with more qualified candidates than they can handle. Thus, one of the easiest ways to "weed out" candidates is to exclude those who are not licensed in the relevant jurisdiction. Whether this occurs will depend greatly on the candidate's specific practice area and/or expertise but, it definitely happens and it is something of which all candidates should be mindful. This is especially true if your search stretches out over the time period in which the bar exam is offered. At that point, law firms often say, "If this candidate is truly interested in relocating, why didn't s/he take the bar exam last month?"


• Travel Expenses. Ordinarily, law firms do not cover travel expenses for a screening interview. However, when there is a high demand but low supply of candidates, the firms will often accomodate requests to conduct a screening interview by phone and then cover the cost if they do decide to fly the candidate out for a full round. In a market of high supply and low demand, on the other hand, this often is not the case. Instead, firms will fully expect candidates to travel at their own expense even if it is only for a screening interview. The best plan of attack in this case is to try to get more than one meeting while you are in town. But since interviews may be hard to come by (depending on your practice area and the market you are considering), be prepared to demonstrate your level of interest and commitment to relocating by accomodating the firm's request to fly out at your own expense. The good news is that the firm may decide to go ahead and give you a full round of interviews once you agree to travel. Or, if they decide to bring you back for a full round, they will cover those costs.


• Logistics. If you are considering relocation in order to find a job, don't forget to think about logistics. Do you have a home to sell? What are the job prospects for your spouse? How quickly will you be available to start a new position? Are you in a position to meet with firms in multiple regions? While all of these issues come into play regardless of the market, they can be absolute "deal killers" during tough economic times. Thus, be sure to give thought to such issues before you undertake the time and expense of expanding your job search into multiple regions.


 

These are just some of the issues that may arise as you consider relocation. But, remember, a good recruiter should be able to counsel you and provide job advice in addition to job openings. So if you are considering relocation, contact a local recruiter to discuss the job market and whether there are special factors you should consider in the relevant jurisdiction.

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.