The BCG Difference
For over 25 years, BCG Attorney Search has been at the forefront of the legal recruiting industry. While many legal recruiting firms focus on filling specific positions at top firms, BCG takes a broader, more personalized approach. Our firm isn’t just about placing attorneys in jobs; it’s about creating opportunities where none exist, helping candidates find the right fit for their careers, and providing a level of service unmatched by any other recruiting firm. This article will highlight what makes BCG different, from our proprietary database to our unique market-making approach, and why we are the go-to firm for legal professionals seeking life-changing opportunities.
1. No Cold Calling – A True Candidate-Driven Model
One of the biggest differences between BCG Attorney Search and other legal recruiting firms is that we have never relied on cold calling. Unlike most recruiters who spend their days reaching out to candidates and firms that may not be actively seeking to hire or be hired, BCG attracts talent through a massive online presence. Our website sees over 170,000 visitors every month, generating a steady stream of highly qualified candidates.
This candidate-driven model allows us to focus on building meaningful relationships with attorneys rather than spending our time cold calling and trying to drum up interest. As a result, we have more candidates than we can handle—an enviable position for any recruiting firm—and we never have to resort to outdated methods to find talent.
2. A Database Unlike Any Other
Most legal recruiting firms rely on subscription services like Leopard List to access job listings. These firms are often limited by region or the size of the law firms they can work with. At BCG, we’ve invested more than $100 million in developing our own proprietary database. This database tracks every job opening at law firms across the country, from the largest firms in major cities to small and mid-sized firms in smaller markets.
Our database covers far more than the top 100 law firms; it includes opportunities in mid-sized and small firms that other recruiting firms overlook. This gives our candidates a distinct advantage because they are not limited to the same narrow pool of opportunities that other recruiters offer.
Even more impressive is that our database allows us to create opportunities where none exist. We frequently place candidates in firms that don’t have publicly advertised openings. By identifying firms that may not have realized they need a new attorney, we can help them see the value in the candidates we present, making placements that other recruiters would never even consider.
See Related Articles:
- My Journey into Legal Recruiting: Why I Love This Profession and What Makes BCG Attorney Search Different
- What Makes BCG Attorney Search the Greatest Legal Recruiting Firm in the World
- The Fastest Way to Benefit with BCG Attorney Search's Expert Legal Recruiting Services
- The Story of BCG Attorney Search and What We Do for You that No One Ever Will in Your Legal Career
3. Nationwide Reach – No Geographic Limitations
Another unique aspect of BCG Attorney Search is that we don’t limit our recruiting efforts to specific regions. While many legal recruiting firms focus on one or two markets, BCG covers the entire United States and even has international reach. Our recruiters aren’t tied to one city or region, which means they can offer candidates opportunities across the country.
This national reach is particularly beneficial for candidates who are open to relocating or want to explore job opportunities in different markets. Whether it’s a major market like New York or Los Angeles or a smaller market like Salt Lake City or Boise, BCG has the resources and connections to place candidates in the right roles, regardless of geography.
4. Creating Opportunities Where None Exist
At BCG, we don’t just wait for firms to post job openings and then scramble to fill them. We take a proactive approach by creating opportunities where they don’t currently exist. Many of our placements occur at firms that aren’t actively advertising for new hires. We identify firms that may have unarticulated needs and introduce them to candidates who can fulfill those needs, even if the firm hadn’t realized they were looking for someone.
This market-making approach is a key reason why BCG is so successful. We’re not just filling open positions; we’re helping firms see the value in candidates they may not have considered otherwise. For example, I once worked with a trust and estates attorney who wasn’t finding success through traditional job boards. We identified about 20 firms that weren’t actively hiring but could benefit from her expertise. She ended up getting interviews with 10 of those firms and landed a job that was a perfect fit.
This type of result is common at BCG. We’re able to place candidates in roles that other recruiters don’t even know exist because we’re not just relying on posted job openings. We’re creating opportunities by matching the right candidates with the right firms, even when those firms aren’t actively seeking new hires.
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- Tens of Thousands of Attorneys Have Found Positions with BCG Attorney Search, and You Can Too!
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5. A Truly Data-Driven Approach
BCG Attorney Search is driven by data. With over $100 million invested in our proprietary database, we have access to information that no other recruiting firm can match. Our database tracks every job opening at law firms, as well as every placement we’ve made over the past two decades. This allows us to see patterns, identify trends, and provide our candidates with the best possible chance of finding the right job.
For example, we can track firms that have hired similar candidates in the past, giving us insight into which firms might be a good fit for a particular attorney. We can also see which practice areas are in high demand in specific regions, allowing us to make strategic placements that align with the needs of the market. This data-driven approach ensures that our candidates are always positioned for success.
6. The Personal Connection – Building Relationships, Not Just Filling Jobs
At BCG, we don’t just place candidates in jobs; we build relationships that last. Many of the attorneys we work with come to us feeling discouraged after facing multiple rejections or being ghosted by other recruiters. They may feel like they don’t fit the traditional mold or that their background isn’t strong enough to land a top-tier position.
Our recruiters take the time to get to know each candidate personally. We learn about their goals, motivations, and what they’re truly looking for in their careers. This personal connection allows us to match candidates with firms that align with their values and career aspirations, rather than just filling open positions.
There’s nothing more rewarding than helping someone find the perfect job after they’ve been struggling on their own. Legal recruiting at BCG isn’t just about making placements; it’s about changing lives. We see it every day—attorneys who were ready to give up on their careers finding new opportunities that reignite their passion for the law.
See Related Articles:
- Why BCG Attorney Search Outperforms Job Sites Like LinkedIn and Indeed for Legal Careers
- BCG Attorney Search Q&A: Enhancing Your Legal Career Prospects
- Why You Are Smart Using BCG Attorney Search as Your Agent
Conclusion: Why BCG Attorney Search Stands Out
BCG Attorney Search is more than just a legal recruiting firm. We’re a placement firm that goes beyond the traditional recruiting model. We don’t rely on cold calls or subscription services to find candidates and firms. Instead, we’ve built a proprietary system that allows us to create opportunities for our candidates, match them with firms that need their skills, and place them in roles that they might never have found otherwise.
Our national reach, data-driven approach, and commitment to building personal relationships make us the go-to recruiting firm for attorneys who want more than just another job—they want a career that fits their values and goals.
At BCG, we’re proud of the work we do, and we’re excited to continue helping attorneys find opportunities that change their lives. That’s what makes BCG Attorney Search different, and that’s what makes us the best at what we do.
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.