Should I Use My Network Instead of a Legal Recruiter for Job Applications?

Answer: We get this question – in one form or another – almost every week. It may seem like an obvious “yes” but, there are several reasons that, generally speaking, the answer is “no”:
 
First, when you work with a good recruiter, your complete application will be presented to the firm in the manner the firm prefers (as opposed to just floating a copy of your resume to your friend). The application will include a cover letter prepared by your recruiter that does more than merely restate your resume. A skilled recruiter will bring to life relevant information about you and your success at the firm that’s not reflected in your resume. Additionally, your resume and law school transcript will be included. When it comes to a writing sample, a good recruiter will know whether the prospective firm would like to see one at the beginning, how long it should be, and what experience it should demonstrate.
 
Second, your recruiter will also know the appropriate contact person within the recruiting department and can make sure that your application gets in front of the correct person. When resumes arrive in attorneys’ inboxes, they are sometimes agitated and tell candidates that they are not the recruiting department. Indeed, each firm has a recruiting department for a reason. The recruiting department knows each practice group’s needs, what each one values and seeks, and is supposed to vet each candidate prior to presenting the application to the hiring partner in each group.

Third, your recruiter’s job is to follow up on your submission and advocate for your candidacy and communicate with you. Your contact may pass along your resume to the hiring partner or another person in the firm, but is s/he prepared to call your contact multiple times to check the status, follow up and make sure it is still moving in the right direction? Even if your contact is comfortable doing so, they likely should not as they are busy working or need to appear to be to the partners. They are attorneys at the firm and not members of the recruiting staff. This is most true when it comes to the offer stage; your friend who works for a firm will not negotiate against his/her employer in the same manner your recruiter can.


Fourth, if you get an interview, your recruiter will help you prepare for that interview. A good recruiter will walk you through possible questions and scenarios and get you comfortable sharing your narrative and making your presentation. Your recruiter will also know what and how to present during your initial interview versus subsequent interviews.
 
Fifth, you want your search to be confidential, organized, and centralized. By working with one recruiter, you can ensure your resume is not being passed around unnecessarily; you can control who receives it and when.

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.