Whether it is an employers’ or employees’ market, there is always competition for the strongest candidates in the job market. In a tight labor market, it is even more critical to have a candidate-friendly hiring process.

Stephen Porter told his partners at Barrett Daffin last fall that he planned to retire at the end of the year after 23 years at the Addison-based law firm, but the retirement only lasted a few days. Porter discusses his first six months as general counsel at Mortgage Contracting Services and what he is seeking in outside counsel.