Question 1: Converting Applications into Interviews
Q: How can I increase my chances of converting applications into interviews?
A: One powerful tactic is to mail your resume in a professional envelope, in addition to emailing your application materials. Law firms receive many emails, so a physical resume can stand out and grab attention. Reapplying is also effective—if you don't hear back after a month, send your application again. Persistence shows genuine interest and can increase your chances of being noticed. Additionally, consider visiting the firm in person or sending a follow-up message to make a lasting impression.
See Related Articles:
- Mastering the Interview Process: Insights from the BCG Attorney Search Interview Preparation Guide
- Off-the-Record Interview Tips from Law Firm Interviewers
- The Best Interview Tips For Your Law Firm Interview
- The Art of Interviewing: Tips for Converting Interviews Into Offers
Question 2: Tailoring Responses for Multiple Interviews
Q: How should I customize my responses when interviewing with multiple firms?
A: Research each firm beforehand to understand their specific needs and culture. Tailor your answers to align with what the firm values most. For example, emphasize how your experience and goals match the firm's practice areas and culture. Allow the firm to discuss their expectations, and respond by demonstrating your fit for the role. Customizing your approach shows that you’re genuinely interested and have taken the time to understand the firm.
Question 3: Managing Interview Nervousness
Q: How can I manage nervousness during interviews?
A: Visualization and breathing exercises can help reduce anxiety. Imagine the interviewers as children rather than authority figures to make the process less intimidating. If anxiety persists, consulting a professional might be beneficial. Remember, nervousness can sometimes work in your favor—it can show how much you want the job. Be honest about your nervousness and turn it into a positive by expressing your genuine interest in the position.
Question 4: Why Firms Might Not Hire Well-Qualified Candidates
Q: Why do some well-qualified candidates fail to secure job offers?
A: Often, it comes down to mistakes made during the interview, such as lack of enthusiasm or failure to connect with the interviewers. Law firms want candidates who are genuinely interested and enthusiastic about the role. Researching the firm, showing enthusiasm, and making yourself stand out are crucial. If you appear indifferent or lack a clear reason for wanting the job, it can be a major turnoff for firms.
See Related Articles:
- How Attorneys Can Answer the 'Do You Have Any Questions for Me?’ in Law Firm Interviews
- Acing Your Interview Starts with Assessing the Interviewer
- Top 10 Interview Questions During Your Law Firm Interview
- Most Common Large to Medium Law Firm Interview Questions
Question 5: Positioning Non-Traditional Backgrounds Effectively
Q: How can candidates with non-traditional backgrounds or solo practitioners position themselves effectively in interviews?
A: Emphasize your specialized expertise in a particular area that is hard to find in traditional law firms. For example, if you're an in-house attorney, highlight your specialized knowledge in areas like municipal law or environmental law. Focus is key—present yourself as a highly specialized candidate rather than a generalist. Specialization makes you more marketable, as firms value expertise in specific areas.
Question 6: Researching Salary and Preparing for Negotiations
Q: How should I approach salary research and negotiations when applying to smaller firms?
A: It’s best to wait until you receive a formal offer before discussing salary. Bringing up salary too early might hinder your chances of being hired. Research what others in similar positions at the firm are earning to guide your negotiations. Smaller firms may have lower rates due to their client base, so be prepared to negotiate based on the firm’s financial landscape.
Question 7: Handling a Failed Bar Exam
Q: What should I do if I’ve failed the bar exam and am having trouble finding a job?
A: Failing the bar exam is not uncommon and doesn’t disqualify you from getting a job. Be honest but casual about the situation when discussing it with potential employers. Often, starting with smaller firms or solo practices can help you gain experience while you work towards passing the bar. Persistence is key—many successful attorneys faced similar setbacks early in their careers.
Question 8: Entering the Legal Profession Later in Life
Q: Is it feasible to enter the legal profession at age 65?
A: Yes, it’s feasible, though it may present challenges such as mandatory retirement policies or reluctance to take orders from younger colleagues. Opportunities still exist, especially with smaller firms or as a solo practitioner. Starting your own practice is another viable option. Many attorneys, regardless of age, successfully open their own practices and thrive.
Question 9: Transitioning from a Non-Traditional Legal Role to a Law Firm
Q: How can I make my experience relevant when transitioning from a non-traditional legal role to a law firm?
A: Make your experience appear as focused and relevant as possible to the traditional law firm setting. Law firms prefer candidates who have specialized in a particular practice area. Highlight how your experience aligns with the firm's needs and practice areas. If you’re joining a larger firm, explain how its brand and resources will help you attract more clients, thereby benefiting the firm.
Question 10: Accessing Webinar Recordings
Q: I’m having trouble finding webinar recordings on the BCG website. How can I access them?
A: Webinar recordings are typically available a few days after the live event, often needing editing before being posted. If you can’t find the recordings, check back after a few days or contact BCG directly for assistance.
Question 11: Asking Insightful Questions During Interviews
Q: What specific questions should I ask during an interview to gain insights into the work environment?
A: After receiving an offer, it’s appropriate to ask more about the work environment and expectations. During the interview, focus on questions that show your interest in excelling, such as “What does success look like in this role?” or “What are the most important aspects of this job?” These questions demonstrate that you are interested in working hard and succeeding.
Question 12: Highlighting Relevant Experiences
Q: How should I highlight relevant experiences when transitioning from a non-traditional legal role to a law firm?
A: Emphasize your focus on a particular practice area to align with the firm’s expectations. If you don’t have a book of business, express your potential to bring in clients by highlighting your platform and how the firm’s resources will help you attract more business. Focus on how your experience is relevant and valuable to the firm’s practice areas.
See Also:
• The Fastest Way to Benefit with BCG Attorney Search's Expert Legal Recruiting Services
• Different Styles of Law Firm Recruiting
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.
Harrison Barnes does a weekly free webinar with live Q&A for attorneys and law students each Wednesday at 10:00 am PST. You can attend anonymously and ask questions about your career, this article, or any other legal career-related topics. You can sign up for the weekly webinar here: Register on Zoom
Harrison also does a weekly free webinar with live Q&A for law firms, companies, and others who hire attorneys each Wednesday at 10:00 am PST. You can sign up for the weekly webinar here: Register on Zoom
You can browse a list of past webinars here: Webinar Replays
You can also listen to Harrison Barnes Podcasts here: Attorney Career Advice Podcasts
You can also read Harrison Barnes' articles and books here: Harrison's Perspectives
Harrison Barnes is the legal profession's mentor and may be the only person in your legal career who will tell you why you are not reaching your full potential and what you really need to do to grow as an attorney--regardless of how much it hurts. If you prefer truth to stagnation, growth to comfort, and actionable ideas instead of fluffy concepts, you and Harrison will get along just fine. If, however, you want to stay where you are, talk about your past successes, and feel comfortable, Harrison is not for you.
Truly great mentors are like parents, doctors, therapists, spiritual figures, and others because in order to help you they need to expose you to pain and expose your weaknesses. But suppose you act on the advice and pain created by a mentor. In that case, you will become better: a better attorney, better employees, a better boss, know where you are going, and appreciate where you have been--you will hopefully also become a happier and better person. As you learn from Harrison, he hopes he will become your mentor.
To read more career and life advice articles visit Harrison's personal blog.
