This has been my guiding principle and mantra since I started taking on leadership roles and recruiting – something I’ve been doing for over 20 years now. 😇 It’s such a powerful statement, and one that’s becoming increasingly important not just here in Switzerland, but also in the broader context of recruiting and the “War for Talent.” One of the most critical and extremely challenging tasks for management in today’s candidate-driven market is finding and attracting the right people. 🎯🧩
With traditional mindsets and outdated beliefs in recruitment – where the “best candidates” are those with a “consistent CV,” no job-hopping, no career detours, and no gaps, who also tick every box in terms of certificates, qualifications, and, of course, relevant industry experience – many will fail to meet this challenge. ⬇️🙈
The “best” candidates are those who are the best fit for the company, the team, the culture, and the role. To find them, we need to look closer and get to know the person behind the CV. This also means we need to stop inviting only those candidates who appear to have the “perfect” CVs. 🔎
📣 Because in an environment that demands constant change and innovation, skills can be learned.
📣 Because in a fast-changing and increasingly complex working world, employees have the right to evolve and adapt, too.
📣 Because unconventional career paths can bring valuable experiences and skills.
📣 Because industry experience is not essential for successful recruiting – in any field.
📣 Because job profiles are evolving, and new roles are emerging that require completely different skill sets.
📣 Because the right mindset, values, and character of a person cannot be seen on paper.
📣 Because the right mindset – team spirit, flexibility, agility, openness, curiosity, a proactive attitude, etc. – is invaluable, cannot be “taught,” and certainly cannot be validated with certificates.
I could go on, but I’m sure you can, too… I’m curious to hear your thoughts and additions. 💬😉
Of course, there are roles where specific qualifications and certifications are a non-negotiable must. I’m not questioning that at all.
However, for us, beyond the essential skills and experiences, the 𝗖𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗙𝗶𝘁, the mindset, the personality, and the chemistry are the decisive factors. We recruit with “𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘀,” which isn’t always easy, but it’s incredibly fulfilling and motivating. 💚😊