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I need to make a decision between two firms, A and B.

Both are highly regarded and neither are known to have conducted layoffs (overt or stealth) or deferred associates, but firm A appears to be somewhat busy while firm B is a little slow (associates indicated work was starting to pickup, but there seemed to be a consensus that currently there's not quite enough to feel comfortable).

In the practice area I'm interested in, firm A is in the first band on chambers while B is in the second band.

The people at firm A, however, are not quite as relaxed as the people at B. Based on my conversations with partners and associates, I feel like I'll have to push myself a little more to get feedback/informal training at firm A. I also feel I'd generally be a little more comfortable with the people at B.

Recommendations?

In my opinion, I'd go with the firm you feel more comfortable with. You'll probably produce better work and make more meaningful connections with the partners if you are happy and click with the people. Being a superstar at a slightly worse firm is definitely better career-wise (and likely in terms of your happiness) than being mediocre at a better firm. These partners will be the ones recommending you if you choose to lateral out, go in-house, etc. or if you are coming up for partner. Fit is very important.

B