Recruiter Series: Lorraine Connally

From your experience working within a firm’s recruiting organization: does working with a recruiter give associates an edge in the hiring process? If so, what are some of the advantages? How do associates benefit from the relationships recruiting firms have and maintain with recruiting teams at law firms?

The relationships recruiters have with recruiting firms is invaluable, which in turn benefits the candidate. Oftentimes we have more detailed information about the position, which cannot be uncovered by the firm’s job posting, who the players are, the characteristics of who will succeed, etc. Firms take the time to speak with recruiters that they trust as they understand the benefits of working with recruiters, and it’s important that we present them with solid candidates. When we advocate for our candidates, firms listen.

Candidates do not have to wonder what happened to their submission, whether it’s just sitting in a firm’s application portal; we get answers. The relationships recruiters have with firms give us an advantage of being able to contact them directly. And during the offer stage, the relationship recruiters have with firms is also advantageous for a candidate. We know what the appetite might be for salary negotiation and can set expectations, and this goes both ways.  

Having a knowledgeable recruiter is key for a candidate and the firm – we make things a bit easier on both sides.

Being able to place yourself in the firms’ shoes is a huge advantage to every candidate you partner with. What do firms care about during the interview process, and speaking from the firm’s perspective: what advice do you like to give to candidates?

Be prepared! Be yourself!

Firms make the investment to interview candidates, and they expect candidates to be prepared, showcase their talents, and discuss why they want to join their firm, etc. We provide our candidates with tons of information to prepare, whether that’s with interviewing tips, firm stats, NALP forms, Vault data, firm/attorney bios, or prepping them over a call or mock interview.

Firms are looking for candidates who will fit in well with their culture and values. This includes factors such as teamwork, communication skills, strong client service orientation, and professionalism. Firms also want to see that candidates are genuinely interested in the position and the firm. They look for candidates who are committed to their career development and motivated to succeed.

While it’s important to be prepared, it’s equally important to be yourself. Firms are looking for authenticity.

What do you enjoy most about being a recruiter, and about working for Swan Legal Search?

When I was a law firm professional, I loved working with search firm recruiters—those that I trusted to bring me solid candidates. I always knew I would end up on this side of the fence. Now, I get to do that!

I love being on the search firm side – it’s right up my alley. As a recruiter, one of the most rewarding aspects of my job is being able to help candidates find opportunities that align with their career goals and aspirations. It's incredibly fulfilling to see candidates succeed and thrive in their new roles.  I’m now seeing some of the associates I placed a few years ago become partners at the firm where I placed them. This is so gratifying!

The contributions I made while being a law firm professional gave me the insights to be successful as a recruiter. Firms trust that I'm presenting a candidate that I would want to hire if I were still in the law firm setting. 

At SLS, I get to work with a group of amazing professionals, where we have a collaborative and supportive environment. The entire team is dedicated to providing personalized attention and guidance to both our candidates and firm clients, ensuring that everyone receives the highest level of service. I learn from them every day, all while having fun! Fun was my number one driver when selecting which search firm to join. SLS did not disappoint.

Outside of SLS, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?

In my free time, I enjoy spending time outdoors, which helps me recharge and stay grounded.

Read Lorraine’s full bio and get in touch with her here.