I was contacted by an attorney who was clerking for a federal judge (not an appellate or district judge) in a relatively small legal market. The candidate did not go to a top law school and, in fact, had never worked with a major law firm.
When I first spoke with the candidate, they declared to me “I am going to work in New York City.” Since the candidate was in the Western part of the United States, working in a small(er) town, did not go to a top law school, was not clerking for a top judge and had never worked in a top law firm, I told the candidate that they would not have much luck getting a position. To top it off, the candidate was also in a very slow practice area (bankruptcy) that was not doing well at all in New York – there were just not a lot of positions. In fact, I told the candidate it would be a near impossibility for them to get a position in New York City with a major law firm.
“You have to look at it from the firm’s point of view,” I told the candidate. “They would much prefer to hire someone local, from a top law school and law firm. You do not have any of the characteristics a major law firm seeks—and you come with the added baggage of not coming from a large law firm.”
“I do not care,” the candidate told me. “I am relocating to New York City, and that is what I am going to do.”
The candidate filled out a candidate questionnaire with BCG Attorney Search, and the questionnaire was inspiring. They talked about how they were motivated, practicing law was their dream, how they had been a star athlete, how they loved helping others and volunteering and quoted reviews and other positive things that others had said about them. The candidate was enthused and someone excited about going after the things they wanted. They had even committed to memory their goal: By the end of this year, I will be an associate at a law firm in NYC working on corporate restructuring matters, commercial litigation, real estate, and private equity. This was something that they repeated to themselves daily.
Despite my reservations, I had rarely seen someone so motivated who wanted to work in a law firm, or go to New York, so badly. I also knew from experience that if someone is motivated enough to do something they usually succeed.
Since the candidate was a clerk, it was not essential that they apply only to firms with active openings. I researched firms with strong bankruptcy practices that had former bankruptcy clerks in them, that were national in scope and that had growing bankruptcy practices. I created a list of approximately 50 firms that were good targets and began calling and contacting these firms to tell them about my candidate.
Despite a very slow market, I was able to get a few of the firms to agree to speak with my candidate. Both firms did not have openings, and each agreed to speak with the candidate simply because she sounded so motivated, passionate and eager to succeed.
I drafted a cover letter for the interviewers that discussed the candidate’s strong motivation, desire to work in New York City and the historical pattern of achievement. One thing this candidate had, that law firms love, is they were trying to improve themselves. They wanted to rise, and moving was something that would fulfill this motivation. Law firms like this because it shows that a person will take their position seriously and work hard. It shows they want what the law firm has and will not be “jaded” when they arrive at the law firm.
Despite having a record that would never have indicated being able to work in a major New York City law firm, the candidate ultimately got an offer and moved to New York when their clerkship ended. The candidate impressed the interviewer who ultimately believed this person belonged in a major law firm. The law firm paid a clerkship bonus and moving expenses to the candidate. It surprised even me though I was glad for the candidate’s success.
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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.
