This candidate was pretty picky when it came to law firms. She only wanted BigLaw and was only interested in BigLaw firms that met a very long list of specific requirements. Although I usually advise candidates to apply as broadly as possible, this particular candidate had clearly thought things through and knew exactly what she wanted and, frankly, her credentials were so strong (top 6 law school/AmLaw 50 firm) and she was in such a busy practice area (M&A) and in such a great market for that particular practice area (New York City) that she could afford to be picky. Such candidates are rare.
Within ONE DAY of me reaching out to Gibson Dunn on her behalf, she received an initial screening interview! Receiving interviews from BigLaw firms so quickly is extremely rare because typically numerous partners need to sign off before granting any interviews.
This candidate and I had an interview prep session that went extremely well. While not particularly outgoing, this candidate was clearly going to be a great interviewer. She came across as thoughtful, intelligent, responsible, and hard working and had excellent answers for all of the questions I asked her. She really did not need much coaching at all, which is also rare. The only real advice I gave her was to have a coffee before her interview and to focus on being energetic and enthusiastic, as energy and enthusiasm are extremely important in any interview and she was not naturally the most outgoing.
Her in-person one hour screening interview with two partners went well and the next day(!) the firm asked her to come back in for a full round of interviews with a total of seven partners and associates.
Three days after her callback, Stefanie received an offer, which she promptly accepted! The firm was very similar to the one she was leaving, but would allow her to specialize in the field she was most interested in.
This candidate had a number of questions for me after she received her offer regarding the timing of next steps. Specifically, she wondered how a start date would be decided upon, when the firm would call her partner references, as she wanted to be sure they waited until after she gave the firm her notice, and how long conflicts would take. I receive these sorts of questions from candidates a lot!
I explained to her that once she accepts, we would go ahead and figure out a start date first. Gibson would obviously love for her to start ASAP, but understand that any candidate would like to leave their firm on as positive terms as possible, so they would defer to her on a reasonable start date. Around the same time, Gibson would initiate their conflicts check. Junior associates almost never have any serious conflicts issues arise out of the blue, so they typically clear within a week or so. Next (although not necessarily before conflicts clear), a candidate would put in their two weeks notice. If a candidate would like to wait until conflicts clear to put in their two weeks notice, firms will understand (although again, conflicts issues almost never become a serious issue for junior associates). Finally, after a candidate puts in their two weeks notice, the firm will call their references. Reference checks usually don't take more than a few days (a week max).
This candidates timeline proceeded as I predicted above and shortly thereafter she joined Gibson!
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.
