This leads to the next issue in that she was unemployed. She had left her firm on her own accord during COVID since she was not in the niche area, and she had moved back to be with her family to ride out COVID. Thus, once the pandemic hit and she returned home to quarantine with her family, she realized this was where she wanted to remain, so felt the right thing to do was to let her firm know she did not plan to come back to the area and would be looking for a new opportunity in her home town once hiring had picked up in the area. They completely understood and she left on excellent terms on her own accord, and it helped that she could get glowing reviews from her time there.
However, the hard part is that although this was the truth, there is always a skepticism that someone really left a firm on their own accord, since the idea is that most rationally people will not do so. Here, this candidate was trying to do the right thing, but it could make it harder for her to find a job.
One thing going for her though was her niche practice area. Her real estate experience is amazing -- she started in-house in a regulatory affairs position with a real estate focus where she had the opportunity to draft real estate documents related to new resorts with regulatory agencies and worked with both internal and external counsel. She maintained regulatory filings related to relevant laws with respect to ownership vacation interests and marketing. Desiring to transition to a firm, she made a move to a top boutique in that area where she worked in real estate including purchase and sale transactions, financing and zoning issues. She also drafted real estate documents from said agreements to lease agreements and restrictive convenants. This type of niche experience can make a difference when looking for a job.
The fact she was in her home town was a plus for her, since it showed a real connection to the area that is hard to come by sometimes. Also, less people are looking in the market, which makes the competition not as stiff. This candidate would not have landed a job in a major market. However, this also leads to the other side of the coin in that there are not as many opportunities in the area as a result. She handled her search beautifully, and really put her trust in me. She allowed me to apply broadly, and to firms without openings, since in a niche market, that is how hiring happens. And she executed this fantastically.
She ended up landed two interviews, and ultimately getting two competing offers, which is pretty incredible. She got the first interview at a boutique firm that actually wanted to hire her outside her practice area, which is pretty cool. The other firm had a practice exactly in line with what she did. She had to juggle the two opportunities, and ultimately she got one offer well before the other and she had to be honest with the first firm that she was waiting to hear from a second, and they gave her the typically two weeks to decide. Two interviews is amazing for any candidate in a small market, and to land both is even more surreal.
She ultimately went with the real estate position, and is so excited to be starting at the firm. I think it is truly a perfect fit for her, and I am so so so so so excited for her to start her career there! They do exactly the type of work she is looking for, they are a top boutique firm in the market, and she found the people to be absolutely wonderful. She can not wait to start!
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.
