In recruitment, the pursuit of the “perfect candidate” is a familiar challenge. Employers often seek someone who ticks every box from qualifications and experience to industry knowledge and cultural fit. But in a fast-moving and talent-scarce market, that approach could be limiting your options more than you realise.
The Reality of Recruitment Today
According to UK hiring data:
- Only 25-30% of hires are considered a perfect match by hiring managers.
- Most successful hires meet 70-80% of the criteria and grow into the role with the right support.
- 76% of UK employers report talent shortages, making flexibility in hiring more important than ever.
Holding out for perfection can lead to longer hiring times, increased costs, and missed opportunities to bring in adaptable, high-potential talent.
Why Hiring for Potential Works
Candidates who don’t tick every box on paper may still bring:
- Transferable skills from other industries
- A growth mindset and eagerness to learn
- Fresh perspectives that challenge the status quo
- Strong cultural alignment and team fit
These qualities often lead to better long-term retention, stronger engagement, and faster development once in role.
Rethinking Your Hiring Strategy
Here are a few ways to shift your approach:
- Focus on Core Competencies
Identify the must-have skills vs. nice-to-haves. What can be trained on the job?
- Assess for Adaptability
Use behavioural interviews to explore how candidates handle change, feedback, and learning.
- Look Beyond the CV
Consider personality, values, and potential, not just past job titles.
- Invest in Onboarding & Development
Support new hires with structured onboarding and growth plans to help them succeed.
How Bond Williams Can Help
At Bond Williams, we specialise in uncovering hidden talent across:
- Office & Commercial
- Accounting & Finance
- IT & Digital
- HR
- Engineering, Science & Space
- Executive Search & Senior Appointments
We help employers look beyond the checklist to find candidates who can deliver, evolve, and thrive even if they don’t tick every box from day one.
Sometimes, the best hire isn’t the one who’s “ready-made” it’s the one who’s ready to grow.
Get in touch to explore how we can help you build a more flexible, future-ready hiring strategy.
