She had graduated from a top 50 law school - not top 14 - and she was at, as noted, a very well regarded firm in her regional market. She was also NOT barred in NYC, which can often be an issue. However, she was eligible to waive into the market, and with my advice, she started that application process so firms were aware this was a serious move for her.
This candidate had very high ambitions - which I respected -- she wanted to land at the best of the best in NYC and despite being from a regional market, felt that she could do it. However, at the same time, she understood the need to approve many firms and to get herself out there, since it takes a broad approach for any practice in NYC to land a few interviews. She reviewed every job and me and her were on the phone often discussing the job search, and how to get her to break into this difficult market. She was very good at getting back to me quickly and marketing herself in this way -- which can make a huge difference. Candidates who jump at the job opportunities and approve things faster than others are more likely to land the interviews, and she understood this and was responsive and wonderful.
The interviews started to roll in for this candidate - certainly helped by her niche market. However, at her current firm, her finance practice was even more niche, so any firm that hired her would have to significantly train her. Helping her, though, is she was only a second year, so she had a lot of room to grow and it was an excellent time for her to make this career jump and move. We spoke often about all her interviews and BCG gave her significant insight into the firms that might be a good fit for her. She got interviews across the gambit from Am Law Top 50-100 firms as high as Vault Top 5 firms, which was really incredible.
She ended up narrowing her search down to two firms - both in the Vault Top 10. One firm was taking a long time to make a decision, which was frustrating for the candidate since she was really interested in them. The other firm, however, went to bat for this candidate and made her an offer quickly. She had to face the decision about whether to take the offer or wait to see if the other firm comes through - however, in this case she was equally excited about both firms. So for her the choice was easy and she accepted the offer she had in front of her. Ultimately, the other firm ended up passing, so this is really a lesson for candidates who are waiting for a second offer to come through, despite how positive the firm might be seeming, that it is extremely risky, and when there is a delay, there is usually a reason. She made the right decision here. The decision can certainly be harder when the second firm is your first choice and the one with the offer is significantly below the firm who has not given the offer yet, but even in these cases, the risks are very very high and often we find that other offer never ends up coming to fruition.
She is currently at her new firm and LOVES IT. WE ARE SO happy we could help in her move to NYC from a regional market! And not just to NYC but to the top of the top.
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.
