Case History: How Eastridge Transformed a Law Firm's Search for Leadership Talent

The Challenge

When a mid-sized law firm faced the pressing need to fill a key position, they turned to Eastridge Workforce Solutions for help. The firm was on the lookout for a Director of Talent, someone who not only had extensive legal recruitment experience but also boasted a strong network at both the associate and partner levels. The firm’s challenge was to find a candidate familiar with major legal markets such as Dallas, San Francisco, and New York, while being headquartered in Los Angeles.

Despite an exhaustive search within Los Angeles, the firm struggled to find the right fit. The situation demanded a fresh perspective and innovative approach to talent acquisition, something they hoped Eastridge could provide.

The Solution

Eastridge Workforce Solutions took on the challenge with their unique approach to recruitment. Their strategy was different from other firms in several key ways:

1. Geographical Flexibility: Recognizing the saturation of suitable candidates in Los Angeles, Eastridge proposed expanding the search to other major legal hubs, specifically New York and Dallas. This strategic move was initially met with skepticism but ultimately accepted by the firm.
2. Detailed Opportunity Staging: Eastridge didn't just present the role; they meticulously outlined the opportunity, including potential structural changes within the firm. This thorough presentation helped in attracting high-caliber candidates.
3. Data-Driven and Solutions-Oriented Approach: Eastridge’s team, comprising experts with extensive legal recruitment backgrounds, utilized an evidence-based approach to propose solutions. They didn't merely say "yes" to the firm’s initial requests but instead suggested adjustments to optimize the search.
4. Detailed Salary Intel:   Eastridge provided the past 12 months of candidate network salary, bonus and title information to ensure the client’s package was aligned with the bigger law firms that they were competing for talent with.

By leveraging their network and expertise, Eastridge identified a candidate in New York who was a perfect fit for the role. This candidate not only met the firm’s criteria but also expressed interest in a more senior role, the Chief Growth Officer, which the firm had been considering internally but had not yet advertised.

The Results

The candidate’s qualifications and experience, including a JD and an MBA, were exceptional. Eastridge facilitated a shift in the recruitment process, steering it towards the Chief Growth Officer role. The candidate’s fit was so ideal that the firm extended an offer with a substantial compensation package.  This move not only filled the immediate talent gap but also allowed the firm to reconsider the necessity of hiring a Director of Talent, potentially saving $175,000 to $200,000 annually.

Eastridge's Unique Approach

Eastridge Workforce Solutions stands out in the competitive world of legal recruitment due to their innovative and client-focused methods:

• Expertise and Specialization: Eastridge's team members, such as Shelby, Cassie, and Mika, come from legal recruitment backgrounds, providing deep insights into what works in the legal industry.
• Creative and Persuasive Talent Engagement: Understanding that top-tier attorneys are frequently approached by recruiters, Eastridge uses creative and persistent strategies to engage potential candidates, making compelling cases for why they should consider new opportunities.
• Tailored Recruitment Strategies: Instead of following a one-size-fits-all approach, Eastridge customizes their strategies based on the client’s specific needs and challenges. They help firms adjust their search parameters to uncover talent that might otherwise be overlooked.
• Comprehensive Candidate Screening: Beyond finding candidates who look good on paper, Eastridge ensures that candidates are a good cultural and professional fit for the firm. This reduces turnover and ensures long-term satisfaction for both the candidate and the client.
  
  

Conclusion

The success story with this mid-sized law firm underscores Eastridge’s ability to tackle complex recruitment challenges with innovative and effective solutions. By thinking outside the box and leveraging their extensive industry expertise, Eastridge not only filled a critical role but also added significant value to the firm’s long-term strategic goals. This case highlights why Eastridge is a preferred partner for legal firms looking to navigate the competitive landscape of talent acquisition.