This particular patent agent earned his Masters in Organic Chemistry, his B.S., cum laude, in Chemistry, and had over 5 years of experience at the USPTO in organic chemistry and small molecules, pharma (dealing with brand new chemical structures and new formulations of old drugs), lotions and shampoos, medical implant and device cases, and diseases such as cancer, MS, and arthritis.
There was a steep learning curve when he initially started at the USPTO, but this candidate tackled it with ease. He had received two accelerated promotions within the last year and a half, and had always received very positive reviews during his 5+ years at the USPTO.
This candidate reached out to us because he wanted to continue to grow and develop his craft at an accelerated pace and felt that a large prestigious law firm would be the best environment in which to do so. And I agreed.
Although this candidate was based in D.C., he was extremely ambitious and open to working anywhere. He really just wanted to end up at the best possible law firm, regardless of where it was located. Therefore, I looped in other BCG recruiters who focused on the West Coast, South, and Midwest to assist us, and I focused on his East Coast search.
This candidate approved numerous firms and it took a while for us to hear back. In fact, this candidate received his Venable interview over two months after I initially submitted him there! In the meantime, I continued to follow up with the firm to ensure that this candidate remained on their radar.
Eventually, this candidate received an initial in person screening interview with two partners in Venable's D.C. office. Because this candidate had not attended law school and had never interviewed with a law firm before, we had an extremely extensive interview prep session beforehand, during which I explained how BigLaw firms work and things that I typically would not have to explain to our usual candidates who are more familiar with BigLaw.
After our interview prep, I was fairly confident that this candidate's interview would go well and it did. Four days after his screening interview, this candidate received a callback - a full round in person interview with 6 patent attorneys and agents. We had another interview prep session and, again, I had a good feeling about this candidate's chances due to his extensive preparation and eagerness to join a large, prestigious law firm.
Unfortunately, it took quite a long time to hear back from the firm! Apparently, the firm had a few other qualified candidates apply and while my candidate was at "the top of [their] list", the partners wanted to speak with a few other candidates before making a final decision.
After a few weeks, the firm requested this candidate's references (a great sign!). Almost two months after his callback, this candidate finally received an excellent offer from Venable! I'm sure he'll be extremely successful there and wish him the best of luck!
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.
