This candidate is a true subject matter expert. She spent her entire career in commercial real estate, representing clients in a broad range of sophisticated matters including the acquisition and disposition of commercial properties, retail, industrial, and office leasing, and real estate finance, and as the lead deal attorney in transactions of $100M+.
After practicing with this firm for several years, she moved with her mentor to another nationally recognized firm in the same city. She stayed with this firm for another seven years before considering a move. She was involved with many different types of real estate transactions, including in the leasing, sale-leaseback, acquisition, and disposition spaces.
She was well-known for her accomplishments and was named as a Rising Star in real estate for the past three years. She was a highly valued member of her firm and elected to non-equity partner after her eighth year of practice.
Although she was happy at her firm, she realized that she did not want to be non-equity partner long term, so she started to look for firms with a clearer path to equity partnership. She believed that with the right support she could continue to market and build her business over time to position herself to become an equity shareholder with another firm. She loves the practice area and was looking for a busy firm that could utilize her expertise and skill set.
She also saw the move as an opportunity to explore another city that she had always dreamed of relocating to. She targeted a city in the south where a good friend lives and that she visits often. She also liked the warmer climate and great hospitality of the southern city.
Because this was an experienced attorney, I reached out to every real estate practice in the city. For some, I sent feelers asking if they were looking for someone with her experience. For others, I sent a direct submission because they had looked in the past or expressed interest in other candidates of mine.
One firm we approached was a well-known real estate boutique with around 20 attorneys. We had never worked with them before and they did not have an active job posting. I sent a full submission anyway and they quickly responded. They were eager to utilize a recruiter to fill a need for a subject matter expert. They were very busy and needed someone who could take over some of the named partner's work and also supervise and mentor associates.
This firm also knew of the candidate's reputation and shared a client with her. We arranged a phone screen interview. They liked her right away and invited her for a callback the next week. The candidate paid for her own travel and stayed with her friend while she was in town. She took the trip as an opportunity to explore the city and look at places to live. The firm made her an offer quickly after the in-person interview. Though they were a smaller firm, they offered her more money than her current firm. They gave her a counsel title with the option of making equity partner after a short time with the firm. She was excited to receive the offer and joined the firm within a month.
A couple of take-aways from this case study: 1) Boutique firms are eager to hire subject matter experts that can help them with a busy caseload; 2) it is important to do your research and reach out to all of the firms who practice in the area; 3) firms do not always advertise when they are looking for new attorneys; 4) small firms pay competitive salaries and provide a better path to partnership; 5) never underestimate your reputation among colleagues and clients - it might get your foot in the door with your next firm.
This search demonstrates that firms will move quickly to hire subject matter experts whose practice compliments their firm.
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.
