I began conducting research using the BCG database on all the Dallas and Houston firms and began emailing the firms to the candidate to approve. She was terrific because she reviewed her emails each day and approved the list of firms each day. That enabled me to submit her to multiple firms each day. This was one of the keys to her success and she understood that the more firms she was submitted to, the more chance she had of being placed at a firm.
It is important to note that this candidate was a 2018 law school graduate who had been clerking for two years in her federal clerkship. She had no law firm experience other than a Summer Associate position at an AmLaw 100 firm. Many of the larger law firms look highly upon a federal clerkship. However, some firms would rather have law firm experience. It completely depends on the firm and the best way to find out is to submit the candidates to as many firms as possible.
This candidate received an interview request from a reputable Houston firm and she was able to conduct the interview via Zoom. I held an interview preparation session with this candidate before the interview. This was helpful because I was able to guide her on appropriate questions to ask during the interview. She had mentioned that in her previous interviews that she asked about clerkship bonuses, benefits, billable hour requirements, and bar exam review classes. I advised waiting until the second or third round interviews to bring up specifics on benefits, salary, and billable hours. I also gave her interview tips, and we practiced answering some mock questions. She had a great interview with the firm and they had her meet with several attorneys back to back. It was several hours of interviews in a row instead of having a second or third round interview. This firm took several weeks to make a decision. I received news that an offer letter was forthcoming and was delighted to share the great news with this candidate.
This candidate is a great example of how it is possible to place a candidate moving to a new state. I know many firms are wary of hiring attorneys who do not have ties to an area but I would recommend trying nonetheless. There are some firms that are willing to take a chance and hire someone who is new to the area. This candidate was even able to negotiate a moving stipend to help with the moving costs.
This candidate was easy to work with. It is always easier to place a candidate who reviews and approves firms quickly so the recruiter can make more submissions. It is also great to have a candidate who is willing to hear advice on how to handle interviews. Lastly, it was helpful that this candidate was open to several major job markets. This increased her chances of getting placed. I would recommend that if you are able, you should expand your job search to as many different cities as possible. I have seen candidates get more interviews when they include multiple cities in their job searches.
Also, many attorneys who have full-time jobs do not have time to scour the job listings in multiple job markets for openings. That is when a recruiter is incredibly useful to have at your disposal. The recruiters at BCG have amazing resources and the ability to look at openings and firms in many cities. BCG also has contacts at firms that do not advertise their openings that candidates would not know about otherwise. The BCG recruiters save the candidates multiple hours each week. It definitely makes sense to use a recruiter when applying to jobs in multiple cities.
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.
