He has great undergraduate credentials as well and you can tell that he is a strong candidate who was wicked smart and determined.
Like many people who start in boutique firms, they later regret not getting the big law experience. Often the best path is to actually start in big law rather than get experience at a smaller firm, as big law provides a lot of training and prestige that firms care about later on, and in-house positions, and it can be difficult to land the big law jobs after the fact.
This candidate, however, had chosen insurance coverage, which is also not an area many big law firms do - but some do. For the ones that do, having a candidate with insurance coverage experience at a strong boutique firm could actually be a real plus. He was able to successfully transfer to a top firm in this practice group, and was so happy to do so. The firm promised a strong practice with a lot of support and training and to be a really great place to work.
A lot of times when people join firms, they do not turn out to be as the attorney thought. The biggest mistake an attorney can make, however, is to start a job search immediately. We suggest a minimum of 6 months, but to stay closer to a year depending on the situation and the firm. This candidate, however, was not happy at his firm. It was simply not a nice place to work, and he contacted us after about 4 months to ask for help. As much as we want to work with everyone, 4 months was too little time, but we asked him to recontact us at 6 months if he was still unhappy, which he did.
At that point, 6 months was the earliest we felt comfortable trying - but it can be difficult since when you have a short tenure other firms are concerned you will do the same to them. We do not see a lot of attorneys successfully transition from their firm after such a short tenure. This candidate also realized the value of using a well respected legal recruiter- sending your resume on your own even with a cover will be difficult to get much traction, and having a recruiter go to bat for you and explain the situation and what is happening is very important.
He ended up getting an interview with our help at another top firm - which was amazing after only a short time at his firm, and they LOVED him. He sailed through the interviews, and the firms understood that sometimes the first firm just is not the right fit. He accepted the offer on the spot, and was thrilled to start at this new position! We have touched base with him and he is extremely happy there!
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.
