Details
Dan Binstock is the Managing Director of BCG's Washington, DC, office, and is responsible for placing attorneys throughout the Washington, DC, region. Dan earned his J.D., magna cum laude, from American University's Washington College of Law, served as Business and Development Editor on the American University International Law Review, and was elected President of his law school class. Dan went on to spend four years with Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner, LLP in Washington, D.C. As an undergraduate, Dan studied counseling psychology and moonlighted as a pianist for the D.C.-based musical political satire troupe ''The Capitol Steps.''
PRACTICE FOCUS
Dan's practice focuses primarily on recruiting and placing partners in Washington, D.C. law firms.
RELATIONSHIPS WITH FIRMS/BENEFITS TO CANDIDATES
Dan has established close, trusting relationships with a uniquely high number of the region's law firms. His clients run the gamut, ranging from large ''BIGLAW'' firms to satellite offices of national firms, to smaller specialty boutiques. As a result of these many connections, his candidates have either been placed at, interviewed with, or received offers from a large majority of the area's leading law firms.
Dan's reputation and tight relationships in the D.C. legal market benefit his candidates because law firms trust his judgment and appreciate his working style. For example, as one recruiting manger from a large firm commented, ''Your candidates are fortunate - when I see a candidate from you, I pay closer attention because I really trust your judgment.'' And another recruiting manager shared, ''You make working with search firms very easy and I appreciate the attention you give us without being over the top.''
ACKNOWLEDGED EXPERTISE IN THE INDUSTRY
Dan's articles and viewpoints on the legal market have routinely appeared in The Legal Times, The Legal Intelligencer, The National Law Journal, The American Lawyer, and other leading publications.
In terms of speaking, Dan has been invited to lecture on the legal market at law schools around the country, including Harvard Law School, the University of Michigan Law School, Northwestern University School of Law, The George Washington Law School, the American University's Washington College of Law, the Washington & Lee School of Law, the University of Maryland School of Law, the University of Wisconsin School of Law, the University of Indiana School of Law, and the Ohio State University Law School, among others. Further, in 2006, the National Association of Legal Placement (NALP) selected Dan to be one of three featured speakers at the annual 2006 NALP Conference, where he served on an expert panel discussing how law firms can most effectively work with legal search firms. And in early 2007, the Washington Area Legal Recruitment Administrators Association (WALRAA) selected Dan to be on a similar panel of three leading D.C. search consultants, which was attended by a large number of Washington, D.C. law firm recruiting managers and recruiting coordinators.
THE SUPPORT, EXPERTISE, RESOURCES, AND ATTENTION YOU WILL RECEIVE
Taking an integrated and coaching-based approach to recruiting, Dan goes far beyond merely sending out resumes (the testimonials below provide first-hand accounts of his approach in more detail). If he is able to assist you with your search, you will receive his support and expertise on multiple levels. During the entire process, Dan will be there to facilitate your interactions with the firm, work with you on potential sticking points and challenges (which every candidate, no matter how impressive on paper, has), and provide support and insight throughout the whole process. Whether it's sharing his wealth of knowledge on different firms, assisting with business plans, interview preparation, guiding you through lateral partner questionnaires, negotiating salary, or choosing between competing offers, Dan's experience and expertise will greatly benefit you throughout the process and give you an advantage you would not otherwise have.
Speaker, ''How to Create Compelling Job Listings'' (Washington Area Legal Recruiting Administrators Association Conference, Spring 2008)
Panelist, Asian Pacific American Bar Association Educational Fund's Career Planning Seminar in Washington, D.C. (Winter 2008)
Panelist, ''Understanding Your Value: How to Get the Premium Experience and Pay'' (CYOC Annual Conference for IP Attorneys, Fall 2007)
Panelist, ''Interview Success During Fall Recruiting'' (American University Washington College of Law, Fall 2007)
Speaker, ''Building a Winning Team: Meeting the Challenges of Lateral Integration'' (ALI-ABA/NALP Career Development Institute 2007, Summer 2007)
Speaker, ''Working with Search Firms'' (Harvard Law School, Winter 2007)
Speaker, ''Long-Distance Job Search Strategies'' (American University Washington College of Law, Winter 2007)
Speaker, ''Guide to the D.C. Legal Market'' (University of Michigan School of Law, Winter 2007)
Speaker, ''Guide to the D.C. Legal Market'' (Ohio State University Law School, Winter 2007)
Speaker, ''Guide to the D.C. Legal Market'' (University of Maryland School of Law, Winter 2007)
Speaker, ''Guide to the D.C. Legal Market'' (University of Wisconsin School of Law, Winter 2007)
Speaker, ''Guide to the D.C. Legal Market'' (Northwestern University School of Law, Winter 2007)
Speaker, ''Small Firm Success'' (Washington & Lee University School of Law, Winter 2007)
Speaker, ''What's Hot/What's Not in the D.C. Legal Market'' (American University Washington College of Law, Winter 2007)
Speaker, ''Guide to the D.C. Legal Market'' (Indiana University School of Law, Winter 2007)
Panelist, ''Working Effectively with Search Firms'' (Washington Area Legal Recruitment Administrators Association's monthly seminar, Winter 2007, Winter 2007)
Speaker, ''Insider's Guide to the D.C. Job Market'' (American University Washington College of Law, Fall 2006)
Speaker, ''Law Firms 101 - What Experienced Attorneys Wish They Learned in Law School'' (George Washington University Law School, Fall 2006)
Speaker, ''Secrets to Successful Callback Interviews'' (American University Washington College of Law, Fall 2006)
Speaker, ''Market Trends in the Washington, D.C. Legal Market'' (George Washington University Law School, Summer 2006)
Panelist, ''Y Law - Advising the Next Generation of Lawyers'' (Annual Conference for the Northeast Association of Pre-Law Advisors, Summer 2006)
Speaker, ''Market Series: Washington, D.C. Legal Market'' (University of Michigan Law School, Spring 2006)
Speaker, ''Washington, D.C. Legal Market Overview'' (Northwestern University School of Law, Spring 2006)
Panelist, ''Dealing Effectively with Legal Search Consultants'' (Annual Conference for the National Association for Law Placement (NALP), Spring 2006)
Co-Speaker, ''Legal Recruiters: Can't Live with 'Em, Can't Shoot 'Em!'' (Annual Conference for the National Association for Law Placement (NALP), Spring 2005)
Speaker, ''Long Distance Job Searching'' (American University Washington College of Law, Spring 2005)
Quoted in ''Billable Isn't Everything: Kirkpatrick Creates Work-Life Program'' (Pittsburgh Business Times, December 12, 2005)
Quoted in ''IP Firm Raises Associates' Salaries by $5K-10K'' (Legal Times, December 6, 2005)
Quoted in ''Summer Numbers on the Rise'' (Legal Times, June 6, 2005)
Quoted in ''Burns, Doane Acquired By Buchanan; IP firm was hit by defections'' (Legal Times, May 30, 2005)
Quoted in ''Piper Merger: Is Bigger Really Better'' (Legal Times, October 26, 2004)
Testimonials (Please note that the names of candidates providing testimonials have been removed to protect confidentiality. If you would like to speak any of the candidates who provided one of the below testimonials, please contact Dan and he will be happy to provide names and contact information.)
''I had a tremendously positive experience working with Dan Binstock. Using a method that distinguishes him from peers, Dan worked diligently to find the right firm for my experience, skill set, personality, and education. First, Dan meticulously studied my individuality. By doing this intensive background work, he encouraged me to reflect thoughtfully about my own experience and education so that he could appropriately spotlight this information for prospective firms. Second, Dan personifies ingenuity - and no single trait is more effective in placing clients. Looking beyond the resume, Dan utilized all of my strengths - as a lawyer and as a person - to pair me with a firm that shares similar values and covets similar attributes. Finally, and most importantly, Dan is honest and responsive. Instead of feeding me meaningless platitudes and hyperbole, he pragmatically guided me through the process, provided helpful advice and counsel at every turn, and kept me informed of all developments. I highly recommend Dan and I'm grateful for his hard work and dedication.''
''Dan Binstock is an absolute professional. He places your career first-regardless of whether he makes a placement. He wants to do what is in your best interest, something that I can't say about other recruiters I have spoken with. Upon meeting Dan for the first time, he provided insight as to how to make my resume better, and provided an artfully worded cover letter that helped me get several interviews. Dan worked hard with me to research potential employers, always keeping in mind what I had told him I was looking for. He didn't want to waste my time by sending me to an employer that we knew would not offer me the position I was looking for. Even though Dan got me several interviews in one city, I had located a position in another city that was very attractive to me. When I asked Dan for his opinion, Dan told me that he thought that the opportunity in the other city was one that would be difficult to find anywhere else. I appreciate that, and appreciate Dan's honesty and candor. Dan easily could have told me that he thought that the position that would earn him a placement was better for me; he didn't. Now I am extremely happy in my new position, and, even though he didn't make the placement, I feel that Dan is partly responsible for getting me here. I recommend Dan wholeheartedly, and hope to have him send some placements my way.''
''I highly recommend Dan Binstock. I've worked with several recruiters and found Dan to be by far the best. He is extremely knowledgeable about the DC legal market and was willing to spend a great deal of time helping me search for a new job. Unlike some recruiters who don't send cover letters or use ''canned letters,'' Dan wrote excellent cover letters that really emphasized my skills. He was also very responsive when I contacted him about potential openings or the status of my applications. In addition, Dan gave honest, helpful advice about firms even when it wasn't a firm where he had sent my resume. This made me feel as though he genuinely cared about helping me find the best position rather than just earning a recruiting fee. In addition, the office manager at a large firm who has worked with many recruiters said that Dan is the only one she would recommend. I think this shows that he is also well regarded by those in a hiring position and stands out among legal recruiters.''
[Letter from Robert Spagnoletti, former Attorney General for the District of Columbia and President of the D.C. Bar] (click here to read letter)
''Several things impressed me about Dan as I went through the job search process with him. First, at our initial meeting he carefully listened to me talk about my interests, experiences, and my long term career goals. I appreciated the fact that he was honest with me about some of the challenges I might face given the market conditions at that time. Second, Dan looked for positions where the chance of mutual interest was high. This is opposed to other headhunters who take a scattershot approach or send all of their candidates to a few favorite firms. Third, Dan took the time to talk about the types of questions I would face and helped me prepare for them. He also made sure to get feedback from firms I had interviewed with and helped me improve my performance during subsequent interviews. His help in this area was vital in helping me secure the exact type of position I was looking for. Finally, Dan's level of professionalism, organization, and responsiveness give his candidates an advantage over those using other headhunters. I was told by hiring attorneys and legal recruiters that Dan is their favorite headhunter because of these qualities.''
''Dan proved himself to be not only an excellent recruiter, but also a good friend. At every stage of the process, Dan did everything possible to make clear that he was looking out for my best interests. He is diligent, wise, savvy, and friendly. Dan could not have done more for me, and I can't thank him enough.''
''By the way, your summaries are incredibly helpful - much better than I get from a lot of recruiters.''
[Hiring Manager from AmLaw 50 firm]
''I would like to share wtih you how pleased (pleased is an understatement) and Impressed I am with Dan Binstock. He enabled me to secure FIVE amazingly top dollar offers from some of the top firms in the nation, but the way in which he handled the process and our relationship from the first day I walked in and met him is a testament to the business model he has built.... Not only did he help me obtain amazing offers and possibilities, he also helped me sort through which firm would make the best fit. I am going to very much miss our daily (several times a day) phone conversations. All I can say is that if Dan treats all his clients the way he treated me, the ''good will'' portion of his reputation and business is more priceless than gold. I could go on and on and still not be able to adequately describe all the amazing services and resources Dan provided me during my recent search. Of course, I know Dan will be there when I next need to hire legal talent and of course he is clearly the ''go to'' person for any of my colleagues in DC looking to move on.''
''Simple words on paper don't do justice to understanding and appreciating Dan Binstock. You have to speak to Dan to fully appreciate the kind of professional, mentor, and friend that he can become. I could not believe my good fortune in finding Dan after I responded to a BCG Search inquiry. I had been previously contacted by a few other recruiting services and had not realized that there are recruiting companies who may not have your best interest in mind. Dan was nothing like that. In fact, Dan's compassion and commitment to finding you a job where you are happy and fulfilled is unparalleled. In my first conversation with Dan, he was very open and upfront with me about the whole process, which was only the beginning of Dan's open and honest communication throughout the entire process.''
''I was planning to relocate to the Washington, DC market and was forced to confront innumerable issues about my move both in terms of my job and lifestyle. Dan's patience with your doubts, concerns, and fears is unparalleled. Dan spent countless phone conversations and emails providing me with his expertise about the DC legal market as a professional, instructing me about practical tips and skills during the interview cycle as a mentor, and helping me realize my potential as a lawyer in the DC market as my friend. When I began the process I was skeptical of even being offered an interview from some of the firms Dan and I discussed. In the end, I had the opportunity to evaluate offers from several different firms and am now in a position that I would never have considered if not for Dan. I would highly recommend Dan's services to anyone who has an interest in relocating to the Washington, DC market because Dan knows damn well what he's doing in this business!''
''Three months into my new job, I can't quite think how to express this except to say that Dan so completely eclipsed every expectation I had regarding a legal recruiter that I still honestly cannot believe my good fortune in running across him. I was in an unusual situation - heading into the legal market in a D.C. after being in another field in L.A. for a couple of years - and had no plans to use a recruiter at all.''
''I met Dan just by responding to a job posting that looked interesting, and I figured it couldn't hurt to set up a meeting. Despite the stories I'd heard about recruiters not necessarily warming to non-traditional candidates, Dan seemed to relish the challenges that my background presented. He provided interview and resume advice, steered me towards firms that he thought would appreciate my diverse experiences rather than look skeptically on my commitment to a legal career, and respected my fairly particular requirements for prospective employers. He advised me throughout the process, was always available to talk, and consistently asked good, probing questions before and after interviews that helped me make the most of them. Working at a modest but deliberate pace - entirely of my own choosing - Dan found multiple opportunities for me at places I could really envision working. And soon enough, we found one place that met all my criteria, and where I felt as comfortable with the people as I felt with Dan. I am truly grateful - and feel truly lucky - to have been able to work with Dan. Put simply, I cannot recommend him highly enough.''
''There is no way that a simple ''thank you'' can express my gratitude for your efforts. I am not certain I can string enough superlatives together to adequately capture the quality of your work and the strength of your character. You took more time meeting with me, expended more effort placing me, and worked harder to make sure I was happy than I ever could have expected. You went farther than ''the extra mile.'' You earned my trust at our first meeting, and you earned my undying gratitude with your work from that date through my placement. You did not push me into anything; instead, you listened. You asked questions. You made sure I was happy with the ''right fit'' rather than just ''any fit.'' I felt, at all times, as though I was your only client, though I know you are very busy. I have referred friends to you, and I will continue to do so. And I expect we will be in touch for years-not because I expect to be in the market for a new job, but because you have become a good friend throughout this process.''
''Thanks a million for helping me transition to a new position. I cannot begin to tell you how much I appreciate not only you listening to me drone on about my situation, but giving me steady encouragement along with practical and useful advice. Perhaps a bit dramatic, but in some respects ''you saved my life.'' Thanks for doing what you do! You're the
best ....''
''I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed working with you during this process. As you know, I was working with a couple of recruiters. There was a stark difference in my experiences with you and the other recruiter. Your knowledge of the marketplace and your advice helped keep a daunting process manageable. I also appreciated that you were always available- nights or weekends-for a quick question or update. In short, if any colleagues ask if I know of a recruiter, I will be sending them your way. Again, thanks for all of your help.''
''I had heard great things about Dan from a friend of mine who had used him previously and raved about him. Dan took steps that other headhunters don't. First, Dan sat me down for an interview to figure out what kind of firm I was looking for. After he had a better idea, he actually told me not to interview at certain firms where I would not fit in. Other headhunters that I have used could care less about where I landed as long as they got their money. Dan gave me the inside scoop at the firms, including background on the associates and the partners, and even questions that I would be asked on the interview. And he was right! All I can say is that I received two offers from very prestigious firms in an area in which I had little experience. Needless to say, I have recommended Dan to all of my lawyer friends.''
''I tell my friends thinking about making a career change to talk to Dan Binstock for two reasons. First, working with Dan is not like dealing with other recruiters I have dealt with, in that once you call Dan, you will not be bombarded with annoying calls and pressure to make a move. Second, if you are ready to explore the options, Dan will take the burden of the search out of your hands and do a more thoughtful job than you probably have time to do.''
''Dan and I started talking several months before I was ready to make a change, during which time he learned about my interests and current experience but did not pressure me to apply elsewhere. By the time I called Dan a few months later and said, ''I've got to get out,'' he knew me well enough to get the ball rolling right away. I felt like Dan approached the process as if he were me, rather than my recruiter, by steering me away from those firms where I could have applied, but likely would not have been happy. To start, we narrowed down the list of firms to only those that seemed like an ideal fit. This prevented me from doing needless interviews, something which my schedule would not have allowed. As it turned out, I applied at only two places and liked the first one so much that I accepted their offer. During the interview, I was told by a partner that Dan's cover letter was so insightful that this partner was able to determine that I had worked for a friend of his at a previous firm, even though that friend was not named. My new firm has been, so far, everything I thought it would be during the job search process.Dan was a support system from the initial stages of my search through the transition out of my old firm and into the new one. Working with Dan never felt like working with a headhunter, but instead like working with a friend and an advocate.''
''I wanted to share my experience with others who may be considering working with Dan. I was looking to move from Orange County, California, to Washington, DC, and didn't know how to proceed. One one hand, I had developed a lot of contacts with friends and colleagues on the East Coast at my current firm and other prestigious firms, and I thought it might be a good idea to submit a resume through them. Although this ostensibly seemed like a good idea, since my friends would benefit from a referral bonus, the downsides of such an approach made me hesitate. For example, for colleagues who I did not know well, or whose unfavorable traits I knew all too well, would my professional image at the new firm be painted with the same brush as my friends, perhaps besmirching my clean slate? Would my friend's active solicitation on my behalf make them appear self-serving and void their recommendation? What would happen to my friendship if I did not get an offer, or if I turned down the offer? Furthermore, although I might be keenly aware of the reputation of a firm in Southern California, how would I know if an East Coast branch had the same reputation? Would I know if there was a mass defection from a firm six weeks or six months before? In any regard, I had more questions than answers. Although I might be perfectly capable or qualified, and just as I would not sell my own house or change my own brakes, I decided to call in a job transitioning expert.
Like most IP attorneys, I had frequent contact with headhunters, so choosing the right headhunter was the first of many important decisions. I've spoken with recruiters who seem willing to tell you everything within seconds of speaking with you and those who won't tell you anything unless you send a resume - but how was I to know which approach was appropriate? After discussing the issue with several people, many responded that BCG was the way to go, since they were the most selective, with many of my friends lamenting that they were not not able to get representation from BCG in the past. I reasoned that, if BCG had a reputation among lawyers for being selective in picking candidates, they would probably have the same reputation among recruiting coordinators as well. So I decided to go with BCG, and did something that felt unusual - I cold-called a recruiter.
In the beginning of our interaction, it felt to me like Dan was in 'investigate' and 'listen' mode, and not selling anything. To me, this seemed like he was making a determination of whether I would be a good candidate for representation, and also trying to gauge my compatibility for law firm life in DC. This was somewhat refreshing, since most recruiters seemed to switch right into hard-sell mode knowing little more than the fact that you are or were employed by a firm and your firm bio. In any regard, Dan listened to my reasons for relocating and suggested what he thought the best transition schedule would be. Over the next few weeks, we spoke in more detail about types of firms or particular firms that might be the best to apply to, and we developed an attention-grabbing resume and cover letter together. On a visit to DC, Dan took the time to speak with me and my spouse in person and to allay any of our concerns.
At some point, I prepared a highly selective list of law firms to apply to, despite Dan's recommendations that we cast a wide net at first and select down at a later time. Although we disagreed somewhat upon the approach, Dan executed the plan that I laid out. After realizing a few weeks later that the job market was not as 'hot' as I had initially hoped, I took Dan's recommendation and cast the net somewhat wider. I suppose I should have just listened to Dan in the first place.
Once the interviews started rolling in, Dan was very helpful preparing me for the question and answer sessions, and building upon my positive qualities and addressing the negatives. He taught me several strategies that others have used in the past to reduce anxiety and to make the interview more like a discussion rather than a question-and-answer session. Prior to and after each interview, Dan and I would conduct an 'intelligence briefing,' discussing individual personalities, firm goals and impressions, and next steps. Once the offers began rolling in, Dan's expertise in handling this part of the process was an exceptional service in itself.
As a mid-level candidate, I had a fair share of conflicts issues to deal with, and Dan was once again a lifesaver. On the issue of waivers, consents, and ethical walls, it was very difficult to tell if the firms I was applying to were using conflicts issues as a negotiation strategy, or if they were being unnecessarily self-serving or over-protective. Dan was able to harness the knowledge of several BCG recruiters and staff to get me through the conflicts minefield as efficiently as possible.
''After my initial conversation with Dan, I knew I had made the right decision in deciding to work with him. Dan asked me a series of questions about my practice, my career interests, and my long terms goals. From this conversation, Dan identified several firms that he thought would be a good match for me. Dan prepared a comprehensive, five-page cover letter and attached my resume to distribute to various law firms. One of the firms, my current firm, shared with me how impressed they were with the cover letter. During the interview, the practice group leader stated that he didn't have any substantive questions about my background or reasons why I was interviewing because they were provided in the cover letter. Dan is truly phenomenal, not only because he has great attention to detail, but also because he really cares about each of his candidates. He is a personal cheerleader, a therapist and a great listener. Dan coached me through the entire process from the initial interview through the final acceptance phase. I appreciate all of the time and effort (and countless phone calls) Dan spent helping me to find my current position. I would highly recommend Dan to anyone who is really interested in finding their career purpose. Working with Dan is not just about finding a new job but it is more about doing a self-evaluation about who you are and who you want to be. Thanks Dan!''
''I deeply appreciate the time that you spent helping me with my job hunting-revising my resume, coaching me before the interview, providing advice on handling the offer. I was especially impressed with your advice on how to handle the job offer with [law firm]-it was excellent. And throughout the process, you were never overbearing or pushy-you were supportive and patient, and you let me make my own decisions at my own pace. Usually I feel quite alone when I'm interviewing, but not so when you were working with me. (Sorry, I don't mean to gush, but I'm being sincere.) Whenever any of my colleagues are looking for a new position, I always recommend you, telling them that you are the best recruiter I have ever worked with.''
''Dan has been extremely helpful with my career move. He provided very insightful guidance to both the general direction and specific details of my job search. What impressed me most was his ultimate professionalism. I could tell that he genuinely cared about my career and he always put my interests first. I would highly recommend him to any of my friends considering a career move.''
''You were an outstanding recruiter-the best I have ever worked with-and I will recommend you to the skies to anyone who is in need of your services.''
''I had a wonderful experience working with Dan Binstock at BCG. Dan was extremely helpful from the very first stage of my job search. He began working on my behalf immediately after I first contacted him, offering useful suggestions on my resume and cover letter, and helping refine my presentation for maximum effectiveness. Dan was also quick to respond to the questions and concerns I had about various firms in the D.C. area, both before and after my interviews. He was always willing to research a question to make sure he had an accurate answer, and was always prompt in replying. Perhaps what I appreciate most is Dan's friendly and amicable nature, which helped relieve much of the anxiety of a cross-country job search. I have thoroughly enjoyed interacting with Dan, professionally and socially. I consider Dan to be a great counselor and a friend. I would highly recommend Dan to anyone looking for help finding a legal job in the D.C. area.''
''Dan, I have been truly impressed by your professionalism and your courtesy. I assure you that I will refer everyone I know to you, and that I'll be in touch should I need to make a move. (But for my sake, I hope it's a while before I need your services.) Thanks again for your kindness, and your efforts on my behalf. I wish you the best.''
''I just wanted to thank you for all your help (not to mention your psychological coaching) in this process. It was a real pleasure working with someone of your caliber (finally, someone who knows what he is doing!) and spirit. I will refer all of my friends down your way.''
''I wanted to thank you again for your help throughout the process. Not being from the area, your insight and knowledge of the local market was a tremendous help. I also appreciated your candor and advice when I was evaluating the various opportunities presented to me. Most of all, I am grateful you helped steer me towards the opportunity that was best for me. I would be glad to recommend you to any colleague considering making a professional change in the D.C./No. VA market.''
''I only wanted to approach two firms when I approached BCG. My recruiter spent a couple of hours on the phone with me and really took the time to understand exactly what my needs were. I did not have the highest GPA, but my recruiter gave me great advice about how to make me more marketable on my resume. Within two weeks, I had an offer from one of the firms I wanted to join. It has worked out very well.''
''I contacted BCG in the spring of 2004 as I began my search for a mid-level associate position in Washington, DC. Having never worked with a recruiter, I was unsure what to expect. In Daniel Binstock, I found a knowledgeable, candid, and straightforward resource who could help me to understand the local job market without feeling pressured to accept the first position that came along. Dan spent extensive time talking with me about my career choices and objectives and, more important, actually listened to what I had to say. He arranged for me to speak with a number of leading firms in the Washington, DC, area, and in the end, I walked away with a number of attractive offers. In addition to Dan's knowledge of and experience with the local job market, it was nice to have a friendly and supportive voice with which to discuss my career move. I would highly recommend Dan's services to anyone looking to find a legal position in the Washington, DC, area.''
''I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed working with you during this process. As you know, I was working with a couple of recruiters. There was a stark difference in my experiences with you and the other recruiter. Your knowledge of the marketplace and your advice helped keep a daunting process manageable. I also appreciated that you were always available- nights or weekends-for a quick question or update. In short, if any colleagues ask if I know of a recruiter, I will be sending them your way. Again, thanks for all of your help.''
''Now that I am settled into my new job, I wanted to write and express my enormous thanks to you for being such a wonderful headhunter. While no one in their right mind would ever say that their search for a new job was effortless, I must say that with your assistance, advice, and support, it came pretty close! Thank you so much for your critical advice regarding my resume, for practicing tough interview questions with me, for meeting me on the morning of my interview to give me moral support, and for calling me every couple weeks since my new job started to make sure that all was going well. I am truly grateful for everything you have done. Thank you again.''
''I have never had such a positive experience with a search firm. You were a pleasure to work with. You had some very constructive advice, and I always enjoyed talking with you. I would, without hesitation, refer people to you.''
''I want you to know you have been absolutely superb. I should have come to you from the very beginning, and perhaps this process would not have taken so long. I will definitely keep you in mind should I wish to make any transition in the future.''
''Now that I'm all settled in, I wanted to drop you a quick line to let you know how much I appreciate all of your help. When I started this process, I didn't know what to expect. I spoke with several recruiters, and I knew from our first conversation that you were different, which is why I decided to work with you. You exceeded my expectations on many levels. Aside from being very knowledgeable about the market and arranging several great opportunities, you were incredibly easy to talk to, and I genuinely believed that you had my best interest at heart. You were always there to speak with me (even on nights and weekends) and to ease my anxieties, and I'm eternally grateful that you made this process so manageable. I consider myself very lucky to have worked with you and attribute much of my success in this job search to your assistance. If you ever need me to serve as a reference for other lawyers, feel absolutely free to call on me. It's the least I can do to thank you. You're the best!''
''I would like to extend my sincere appreciation and thanks for the great efforts that you put into finding me a job. I felt that you thoroughly explored the market and provided me with accurate advice. Also, I appreciated your career advice. I never felt that you were trying to push me into just ''any'' job, but were constantly looking for the right fit. I also appreciated the personalized time and attention you provided me with. I don't think I could have found a better recruiter. I always had complete confidence in your skills. Again, many thanks for the great job.''
''I wish I could do more than just say thank you for all that you did for me. You are a wonderful person, and I will be sure to refer everyone I know who's looking for placement to you. You were more than a headhunter to me, you were a good listener, a therapist, and, most of all, became a good friend. I can definitely say that you are very knowledgeable, patient, and very easy to talk to. You always had time to listen to me and give me inspiration and excellent advice; I am so glad I came to you when I did. Again, I wish there was something I could do or say, other than a big thank you to show my appreciation. I had such a positive experience with you, and for the first time, I really enjoyed working with a headhunter. Thus, if I had to do it again, I would definitely give you a call. You are a wonderful person and an excellent headhunter. THANK YOU so much for all that you did for me. If there's any thing I can do for you to show my sincere gratitude, please let me know, and I'd be more than happy to do it.''
''I was very impressed with Dan's professionalism and resourcefulness when it came to my career transition. In particular, I wanted to work with Dan based on his expertise and practical knowledge of the DC legal market, which turned out to be invaluable. Dan's judgement was excellent and his concern for my interests apparent. I would recommend him to anyone considering a career move.''
Testimonials - Attorneys Love BCG Attorney Search!
I worked with a different recruiter before I worked with James, and the difference was like night and day. James was very responsive to any questions I had, always calling me back within hours if I left a voicemail. Moreover, his knowledge of the mar [...]
- J.S.I can't thank Jamie enough for her assistance in my transition. Jamie clearly had information about the firms which was more than that publicly available. It made a difficult process for me considerably less so.
