As a result, this candidate could not receive a big law offer upon graduation, and instead took a position at a small-mid-sized firm in the New York area in the corporate work. This candidate also graduated from law school during the heyday of the Lehman crash, which also made landing a position that much more difficult. The candidate was smart, and took what she could at the time, and was able to find a firm that did not lay off or fire, which is not the case for many other attorneys.
While there, she got fantastic experience in the corporate practice group, where she had a really generalist background. Knowing it would make sense to leave that firm, she was able after the market started moving again in the corporate world to land a position at a strong mid-sized firm, which was a crucial step in her career. She remained with the firm for four years, and was even moved to the Counsel title given her seniority. While there, she had a large focus on M&A, however, she also did corporate finance including capital markets, making her a well rounded corporate generalist in a continued manner. The firm allowed her to really delve into her experiences, although the firm was not paying market and it was often a difficult place to be.
She then made a third lateral move to another mid-sized firm at a Counsel title again, where she focused more generally on corporate contract work. While there, she negotiated numerous agreements and helped work on large REIT transactions, among other matters.
This candidate came to BCG, as a result, with three moves under her belt, and a senior class year and corporate title, and she had never worked in big law, although she made smart moves in her career and managed to stay in sophisticated corporate work despite the realities of the market at the time. She was ready and excited to make a move to big law after all this time, and she approached BCG and one of our recruiters to see if she could make that a reality. On her own, she was not having any luck, which is often the case. BCG saw a lot of potential in this candidate, and were very impressed with her corporate background. We helped her put together a killer deal sheet to really show her experience.
We also had a lot of long conversations about title and class year flexibility. Big law would be unlikely to bring her in as Counsel and certainly at her class year there is little needs. The candidate understood this perfectly, and realized the importance of getting in the door at big law. Even with class year flexibility and class title flexibility, it is still a difficult move at her seniority, and that is where we at BCG can be a strong help for her. Without BCG, if she sent her resume into firms, they would pass, but we use our resources to show firms what is special about her and to convince them that she is open and flexible for what makes sense for their firm.
This candidate ultimately received two interviews at top big law firms in a very competitive market space. She eventually received an offer to join as an Associate at a senior associate level, which for her was a significant huge pay raise and got her in the door at one of the top firms in the country, which was always her goal from graduation, but one that took time to work towards. The candidate was able to do this despite it being her 4th move, which can also be difficult for firms when hiring. We at BCG helped get her these fantastic interviews and opportunities, and she blew them away once she got in the door at the firm for the interviews. She is now happily at the firm and has been extremely successful there!
We feel honored at BCG to have helped her realize her dream and land somewhere great!!
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.
