Approaching boutique law firm

[Anonymous]

I'm a senior associate in a biglaw firm, and I'm thinking about my future options. There's a boutique firm that I'm very interested in - it's a good fit for me in terms of the work they do. I haven't done any recruiting since I was 1 or 2 years out of law school so I don't really know how to go about this. I don't know anyone at the firm. Should I just send a cover letter and resume to the general recruiting contact (they have a general statement on their website that they are interesting in hearing from "talented lawyers at any stage of their career") or should I try to connect with one of the partners via linkedin or something? I'd welcome any advice!

[Anonymous]

Do you know anyone there through any professional means? Any of them also an alum from your school?

[Anonymous]

Do the partners belong to a bar association? Can you meet them at any networking events? Is there someone who could introduce you?

[Anonymous]

I would submit via their website/HR system but also reach out to a partner there that looks like they do similar work to what you want to do, and ask if they have time for coffee or a phone call. These boutique firms are small.

[Anonymous]

I'd go on LinkedIn and see who you know that knows someone there. It's a small town in terms of lawyers knowing other lawyers - I guarantee you have some connections there. Then reach out to your connection and ask for an intro. Ask whoever you get connected to out to coffee/lunch to learn more about their practice and then subtly sell yourself.

Trust me - I am at a boutique firm. Random resumes, no matter how good, are usually overlooked. There just isn't a need for constant recruiting like in big law. You need to make the personal connection and then let them know that you are looking to make a move.