12 Reasons Why You Should Work With a (Good) Recruiter for Your Legal Job Search (Part I of III)

Part I

1. Recruiters are normally free.
2. “Good” recruiters are very low risk.
3. Recruiters have valuable expertise with regard to how the complex market works.
4. Recruiters provide objective advice and representation.

REASON 1 - A recruiter usually costs you nothing.  You do, however, need strong credentials for a recruiter to be of value to you in providing a key “edge” in today’s highly competitive market.  If your credentials are not strong enough to impress the market, however, then a recruiter will not be able to effectively assist you.

REASON 2 - There is very little risk that using a “good” recruiter will hurt your chances.  That is not the case with a “bad” recruiter, however.  Good recruiters can be distinguished by their ability to properly do the things identified in this list.  While attending a top law school and practicing at a top firm is not a requirement for a good recruiter, they are strong indicators of both knowledge and competence.  Experience is also key.  Because the issues involved are much more complex, experience with partners is very different from experience with associates.   The reputation of the recruiter and their firm is also important.  Although size does not necessarily equate with quality, like the big name law firms the big name recruiting firms (such as BCG Search) are more likely to have highly qualified recruiters.


REASON 3 - In my initial experiences as an attorney, first as a federal clerk and then as an associate at Kirkland, I had to start developing expertise in the highly complex system of litigation.   When I became a recruiter 8 years ago, I discovered that the market was also extremely complex and took years to master, especially for partners.  While some attorneys believe they already know everything about the market and therefore can handle everything on their own, they are often mistaken.  Attorneys, especially partners, are way too busy to put in the time and effort needed to really understand the complexity of the market and how it is best “played.”  Obtaining the advice of a recruiter who already has that expertise makes a lot more sense.  Finding the right job is extremely important.  Wouldn’t you want expert advice, just as clients seek the expert advice of attorneys?

REASON 4 – Some attorneys say it is better to go through “friends” at firms rather than recruiters. This is also usually mistaken.  Unlike one’s friends, recruiters can provide objective advice about the firm, in addition to all the other valuable advice concerning the market that the friends do not possess.  Second, using your friend as your advocate at puts them in a precarious position.  What if things end badly?  How far is your friend willing to stick their neck out for you?  Even if things go well, are they going to negotiate your offer for you?  If you go through a recruiter, on the other hand, you are better positioned regardless if things go well or badly.

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.