The candidate had work experience at several small firms in California, and she was currently a labor and employment associate at a Southern California office of a firm at the bottom of the AmLaw 100. For personal reasons, the candidate was looking to move to Northern California. Although her current firm has a NorCal office, the candidate was ready for a jump up in the quality and sophistication of her work and clients, and she reached out to BCG for help.
The candidate was fairly selective about the firms to which she allowed me to submit her, which isn't always the best approach. I usually advise candidates to cast their nets widely, but this candidate had the option of the NorCal office of her current firm to fall back on. Also, labor and employment is often a fairly desirable practice area, and the candidate had great L&E experience. And I knew from our extensive conversations that this candidate would be absolutely stellar in an interview setting: she is well-spoken, charming, and thoughtful. In the end, I submitted her to only 9 firms, over the course of one month.
One of those 9 firms was a Vault-ranked firm with a top-of-the-top labor and employment practice group; the firm was one of the candidate's top choices. The firm asked me if the candidate would be willing to take a reduction in class year - not because of anything in the candidate's profile, but because they were looking for a slightly more junior labor and employment associate. The candidate and I had a long conversation about it, and I advised her to be flexible with class year. The jump between her current firm and this potential firm was vast, in terms of prestige, salary, and sophistication of work and clients. I knew the candidate was extremely well qualified, and that if she made the jump to this firm, she would quickly distinguish herself and do well. Ultimately, the candidate agreed with me. She loved the group when she interviewed with them, and both she and I were delighted when she received an offer.
This candidate's experience highlights that there so many factors that go into an individual's job search, and that a candidate does not have to be defined by their current employer. To be sure, not many people at this candidate's current firm would have been able to make the transition to her new firm. But this candidate had so many special qualities, and they were qualities that I was able to highlight in her application and she was able to underscore in her interviews. To me, this candidate exemplifies why it's so important to work with a recruiter who really gets to know you, so they can be sure to present you in your best light and advocate for the sort of position you deserve.
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.
