Career Agents

After the election, I’ve spoken with people feeling everything from joy to deep despair. It reminds me that, despite our differences, we live in an incredible nation. Reflecting on those memories of riding with my dad—caring for my Foxtrotter, Skeeter, and my dad’s Tennessee Walkers, Major and Rattler—I find peace in the simple, grounding moments. Todd Pierce of Riding High Ministries captures this beautifully. Through his bond with horses, he shares the gospel in a way that goes beyond words, showing how trust and surrender can bring connection and purpose. For anyone who’s experienced the peace of being with horses, it’s a powerful reminder that faith can be a true source of freedom. https://lnkd.in/eXRnjEcr

Law Firm Profits Surge in Q3 2024 Law firms saw near-record profits in Q3 2024, with an 11.2% increase over last year, per the Thomson Reuters Institute. Key drivers include higher lawyer productivity, strong billing rates, and modest expense growth. The Law Firm Financial Index recorded a score of 71, the second-highest in its history, indicating broad-based demand across litigation, corporate, real estate, labor, and bankruptcy practices. With stable economic conditions and regulatory changes on the horizon, Q1 2025 could bring new opportunities for growth. https://lnkd.in/e-Ca6YBj

"Success is not final; failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts." Winston S. Churchill Midweek reminder: Every step forward, no matter how big or small, brings you closer to your goals. Keep pushing forward with resilience and determination. You've got this!

Tales from a Legal Recruiter: The Power of Storytelling and Mindset! I worked with a top attorney in the past, a graduate of a top 5 law school, specializing in emerging companies. Despite his impressive background, he had struggled to land an offer after several interviews. When I met him, I knew his experience and skills were a perfect match for the right firm. I coached him on how to frame his story, highlighting his unique value proposition, the impact he wanted to make, and his drive to succeed. The result? He received two offer letters after just two interviews, both with significant sign-on bonuses! One of the firms even told me he was the best interviewer they had ever had. It was clear that the difference came down to mindset and the ability to tell a compelling story. It’s a powerful reminder: the right mindset and effective storytelling can open doors and create opportunities that would otherwise be out of rea

Forerunner Ventures' $500M Fund and the Growing Opportunity in Consumer Tech Kirsten Green’s Forerunner Ventures, known for its early investments in Warby Parker, Away, and Glossier, has closed its latest $500 million fund, signaling strong confidence in the consumer tech sector despite the challenges of the past two years. With a focus on seed to Series A investments, the firm will write checks between $1 million and $20 million, raising its total assets under management to nearly $3 billion. Despite a tough market, Green remains bullish, stating that AI’s rise is driving consumer expectations for more personalized, high-quality products and services. Recent investments include AI-driven startups like Daydream and MindTrip, indicating Forerunner’s commitment to evolving with emerging tech trends. Implications for Hiring: As consumer tech heats back up, law firms need to start strategically hiring emerging companies associates and partners. With the return of investor confidence in this sector, especially in AI-enabled startups, firms need talent that can navigate early-stage investments, growth, and complex IP issues. Being ahead of the curve in these areas can position your firm as a key player in the evolving landscape. The Implication of Doing Nothing: Failing to act now means missing out on the next wave of high-growth consumer tech companies. As the market warms up, firms that aren't proactive in securing top talent could fall behind, missing valuable opportunities to work with the startups and investors leading the charge in this space. https://lnkd.in/eyzmkitb

"Life Lessons from My Dad – The Cowboy Spirit Beyond the Saddle" Growing up, my dad was my role model—a true cowboy from Hemphill, Texas, with a work ethic and presence that left a lasting impact on me. From long shifts at the GM auto plant in Fremont to working around the ranch, he was always there, teaching me life lessons that I carry forward each day. Here are some of those invaluable lessons that have shaped who I am, both personally and professionally: Resilience: Whether on horseback or facing challenges in life, resilience is everything. My dad taught me that you don’t let one fall define you; you get back up and keep going. In life, setbacks are inevitable, but pushing forward is what makes growth and success possible. It’s a reminder to meet challenges with strength and courage, regardless of how many times you may fall. Responsibility: Working with horses taught me the dedication that comes with responsibility—from stacking hay bales to grooming them daily. My dad showed me that true care requires commitment, whether that’s for people, projects, or personal goals. It’s a value I bring into everything I do, understanding that real investment and effort are what yield meaningful results. Trust-Building: My dad had a unique way of earning trust—with both animals and people alike. It’s a foundational skill that serves in any relationship. Building genuine connections, rooted in trust, is what makes interactions more meaningful and long-lasting, no matter where life takes you. As I reflect on these lessons, especially with my dad’s birthday tomorrow, I’m grateful for the legacy he left me. His cowboy spirit, resilience, and dedication to others are qualities I strive to honor daily, in life and in work.

Big Law Partner Hiring Surge Expected in 2025 With Trump’s re-election, Big Law lateral hiring will likely increase in corporate practices like private equity, M&A, and capital markets, boosted by optimism around a favorable deal market and lower regulatory hurdles. Life sciences, tech, and antitrust practices may also see an uptick, while restructuring and litigation demand could slow. Energy, trade, and regulatory practices may become especially active, as policy shifts bring new opportunities. Law firms are poised to hire top talent in these areas, although less prominent lawyers may face challenges. Increased competition and pay remain strong drivers for lateral moves. https://lnkd.in/ef63zmy2

Corporate Practice of the Year Finalists Announced! The American Lawyer has spotlighted the standout firms of 2024 in corporate law, with winners to be unveiled on November 13. Here’s a quick look at the impressive achievements from each finalist: Davis Polk: Over 38,000 deals valued at $2.8 trillion, including industry-shaping mergers and the Washington Commanders' $6B acquisition. Kirkland & Ellis: Powerhouse across markets and sectors, notable for Cineworld’s $4.53B restructuring. Latham & Watkins: With $4.8T in deals, the firm continues leading high-impact transactions, like the $21B WWE-Endeavor merger. Paul, Weiss: Over 200 deals totaling $367B, plus strategic growth by adding top private equity talent. Sidley Austin: Handling nearly 3,000 deals and making a mark in private equity, insurance, and sports. Simpson Thacher: From AI to alternative practice structures, their specialized expertise has reshaped industries. Sullivan & Cromwell: Leading in AI and crypto with OpenAI/Microsoft and FTX restructuring. Wachtell, Lipton: Known for high-value M&A, advising on the top transactions in multiple sectors. Each finalist has showcased unique strengths, from blockbuster mergers to complex restructuring. Exciting times ahead as we await the final results! https://lnkd.in/ehSS2sN9

Private Credit Boom Keeps U.S. Finance Lawyers Busy! The $2 trillion private credit market's growth is fueling demand for legal expertise. Top law firms like Mayer Brown, Kirkland & Ellis, and Paul Hastings are expanding their private credit teams, while traditional banks team up with investment firms to capture a share of this lucrative sector. Recent partnerships include Citigroup-Apollo and Wells Fargo-Centerbridge, with law firms like Cravath, Paul Weiss, and Sullivan & Cromwell advising. Private credit’s expansion into asset-backed financing means even more opportunities for lawyers, with finance-focused partner moves doubling in 2024. https://lnkd.in/gTDisTCF

Energy dealmaking is set to accelerate under the Trump administration, with regulatory relief anticipated for oil and gas M&A. Key players in Big Law, like Gibson Dunn and Kirkland & Ellis, are poised to handle the surge, as reduced antitrust scrutiny and fewer FTC delays could streamline transactions. IPOs may also gain traction, reviving exits in the sector. Meanwhile, clean energy projects face a possible dip. Concerns over reduced tax incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act could slow renewable investments. However, the IRA’s popularity—even in conservative states—may sustain support for renewables. The energy sector is heading into a dynamic period, with law firms adapting to both opportunities and regulatory shifts. https://lnkd.in/eyDFAjgW