Thus, the beginning of his career started out on the normal trajectory, and he was an associate at a top firm focusing on corporate and securities. He did this job for about a year - which generally it is an early time to leave a firm after a year of experience - but he wanted to make a move out of his mid-western town to a more major market. He ended up deciding to leave for a government position at FINRA, which is an interesting choice and it could be a nice long term career.
He decided to move to the DC area for this role, and worked at FINRA as an attorney. FINRA is a very niche area of law, with very few firms focusing on this practice area, but the ones that do would value a FINRA employee. Even more interesting is that he did not have any prior FINRA experience, but was a corporate attorney and most FINRA positions are on the litigation side.
Then the candidate, however, made another move and decided to leave FINRA after two years. He enjoyed it, but did not want to stay there. So now he was unemployed with a small time at a top firm, which could be very difficult to come back from.
This is when he approached BCG to help with his search. He had been looking on the market himself for a long time and he really needed guidance and BCG's help and connections. I was excited to work with him, where many recruiters did not want to given his unemployed status and his short tenure at his jobs. However, I thought his credentials were impressive and he went to a very good law school and had started his career at a good firm. I thought the place he would be marketable, however, was in FINRA, given his time there and that we should focus on that practice area.
This can be difficult because it is so niche there are not as many opportunities in it but this candidate was smart and decided to be broad in his search, and was willing to relocate anywhere to land back at a great firm. He ended up getting an offer at a firm in a regional market, but near a major city. It was an AM LAW top 200 firm and they had a strong practice in FINRA litigation, which was the hook to get him the offer and the job!
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.
