The candidate's firm and academic credentials were top-notch. Her transactional practice - heavy in Finance - would make her marketable to most any sophisticated practice at any firm in New York. The only problem here was that her hometown was a much smaller market with only about three firms with strong transactional practices at a particular level, and none with as specialized niche practice groups within Finance and Corporate. While this sounded fine to the candidate - she really was prioritizing being home and she had thought this all through, she said, when deciding to purchase her home in South Carolina - I was worried that while firms would be impressed with her in SC, they simply could not really offer her what she needed or really make use of her skills. Compensation-wise, I did a great deal of research on market pay in South Carolina, and I spoke with the candidate a good bit about this, trying to prepare her for a reverse sticker shock. I often have candidates who tell me they are willing to take a pay cut but, when it comes to just how much of a pay cut, they assume it will not need to be so substantial.
I made sure to highlight to prospective firms that while the bulk of the candidate's work had been in doing banking-side financings, she had also gained significant experience in acquisition finance and corporate M&A work. I communicated that the candidate was ready and able to broaden her transactional practice as necessary to be able to contribute to a corporate practice in the Charleston area. We applied to every firm with a transactional practice in the area, which came to about 11 or 12. I received responses that communicated how impressive the candidate was along with regrets that there simply was not a need/not enough work to justify hiring an additional associate at the candidate's level. Only one firm requested an interview. I think that, in any larger market, this would have been shocking.
She should have rightly expected at least a handful of firms showing interest but, again, we were limited by the fact that only a certain number of firms did transactional work in this particular market and when they did, they were much smaller groups than the larger, specialized corporate departments for firms in New York. Even the firm that requested the interview - at the time, a national firm with strong South East roots - had a small transactional group in this city. The partner with whom my candidate would be working was very honest about her practice being very different from my candidate's and that the candidate would have to pick up a great deal of new knowledge. The partner expressed to my candidate that she had sort of hand-picked her to meet with, after seeing "many, many resumes come through for many years". We had not applied to an actual opening; rather, we had reached out proactively and this would be an opportunistic hire for the firm.
I think one additional factor that really helped this candidate with this firm is the fact that the candidate had already made the move physically and made the commitment to be in the city for the perceived long-term, as she and her husband had bought a home there. She appeared more "real and tangible, and accessible" to the firm than perhaps she would have had she been applying from New York. Sometimes candidates genuinely want to move but, then a spouse's job doesn't pan out in the new location, or the significant other changes his/her mind about the move. But, here, the candidate was able to meet with the firm twice rather quickly.
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.
