One of the benefits of attorneys that specialize early in their careers is that the specialization will often enable them to move to large law firms with which they normally would not be able to get a position. Large law firms love specialist, and this is especially so in practice areas like healthcare. Healthcare laws have been changing for some time and clients of large law firms need people that understand the work.
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| Harrison Barnes |
I started out working with my candidate, and for the first several months I was not able to get him any interviews. Many of the law firms balked at the quality of his law school and others his grades. Nevertheless, I was persistent and continued presenting his opportunities as they become available. At least twice, my candidate became frustrated and wanted to stop the search because he thought that it was going nowhere. It is difficult for attorneys when they are rejected by firms and are not receiving any interest. In fact, many attorneys believe this process will indefinitely continue. With constant rejection and no positive feedback, many attorneys often give up.
I see attorneys give up all the time when they are not getting the sort of reception from the market that they want. The issue with selling anything—whether it’s a house, a car, or even an attorney—is that all it takes is one buyer. Part of the job of a recruiter is to find a buyer for the candidate and to keep trying until the right firm comes along. I am constantly amazed at what is possible with persistence on behalf of candidates. Candidates that are persistent and continually allow themselves to explore the market tends to do much better than an attorney who gives up. Attorneys who give up do not get the benefit of finding the right buyer for their services. Just because a law firm does not have the work, or would rather hire someone else, does not mean that a person is not a good fit for the law firm.
The most important thing an attorney can do is stay in the game. I kept this attorney motivated and in the game despite months of setbacks with no interviews. Ultimately, several months into our work together, the attorney received an opportunity to interview with a major law firm. During the interview, the law firm indicated they liked him a great deal and would probably extend an offer. A few days later an offer arrived in his email inbox. The offer was for over 50% more money than he currently made with one of the most largest and prestigious law firms in the world. This is the type of law firm the attorney would never have received a position in during law school nor during our extensive and exhaustive legal job search.
While I wish I could take credit for doing something brilliant in the search for the attorney, in reality, the only thing that I did right was keep him motivated. I had faith in the attorney and knew with time he would succeed. I also knew that large law firms were consistently having more openings for healthcare attorneys and that few attorneys were able to do that sort of work. By keeping the attorney in the game, I was able to place them with a large law firm that he might have known about on his own but might have also been afraid to after so many previous rejections.
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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.
