“Buchanan understood my priorities from the outset and provided guidance and support throughout a complex process. Their advice helped me secure a role that aligned perfectly with my career goals and personal needs, including a reduced-hours arrangement. I always felt informed, confident, and supported at every stage.”
Summary:
We successfully placed an associate seeking a reduced-hours schedule into a leading law firm. By navigating a complex offer process and clarifying working arrangements, the candidate was able to secure a role that supported both his professional development and personal work-life balance.
The Challenge:
The candidate was looking to move for work-life balance reasons, including a reduced-hours arrangement, following a demanding period at his current firm. Initial discussions with a prospective firm did not progress due to concerns over accommodating his reduced schedule. Subsequent challenges included:
- The initial offer did not clearly address how the reduced-hours arrangement would operate in practice.
- There were concerns about integration with colleagues working a full schedule and maintaining class year parity.
- The candidate needed reassurance that his career progression and development would not be impacted.
The Approach:
We leveraged our strong relationship with the firm to reopen discussions and:
- Reintroduced the candidate and coordinated further conversations with partners.
- Advocated on behalf of the candidate to secure explicit clarity around the reduced-hours arrangement.
- Negotiated amendments to the offer letter, ensuring full integration into the team, ongoing support, and clear working arrangements aligned with his 80% schedule.
The Outcome:
Through careful negotiation and clarification, the candidate received a revised offer that fully reflected his requirements. The firm confirmed his reduced-hours schedule while ensuring career development and team integration were a priority.
The Result:
The candidate accepted the offer with confidence. This placement highlights the importance of strategic advocacy, clear communication, and attention to personal as well as professional priorities.
