I was really excited to work with this candidate since I thought his background was valuable - he had gone to a top 14 law school, but unfortunately could not land any summer associate position given the market at the time, and ended up doing short internships over the summer for different judges. With this, he got interested in the court and decided to apply for some long term staff positions, rather than law clerk positions. This is often not considered marketable by firms, but I was really impressed with the work he was doing, and felt that he had given himself a really solid and strong litigation background.
The other positive thing here is that he was very flexible on location and had connections to very regional markets others are not always willing to consider. This is very important and helped him to land the position he ultimately landed. Candidates - especially ones that will have a more difficult time landing a job especially if they want a large firm - do not always realize the value in starting in a more regional market, especially one in which they have connections to, and getting into a larger firm then they would otherwise. They could end up really liking it and the market and if not they have set themselves up for a solid move later on.
This candidate ended up applying to some top firms, but in a very regional market, and landed an interview at what would be considered a mid-sized firm elsewhere, but in this market was considered one of the best firms around. He also landed interviews in more major markets at small firms. He was open to anything with a really positive attitude. He also did a fantastic job convincing firms that he is a strong fit for their practice and that his experience as a staff clerk was not only valuable, but unusual.
He ended up being particularly interested in one firm in the more regional market, and went on three rounds of interviews, with my prep and assistance. He got the offer at the firm, for a very strong salary for the regional market he was in, and was so excited to accept! He knows that without BCG's help and backing he likely would not have been able to land such a strong interview, but also he was open minded, willing to consider smaller markets and smaller firms, and it served him well in this situation.
The firm was also really excited to get him since they did not have a lot of talent from top-14 law schools and found his clerkship experience to be a unique thing they could highlight on their website about the candidate.
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.
