I recently interviewed a few candidates for a role. Not all of them ticked every box on paper. At the same time, the business was expanding, and there was a clear need to bring someone on board.

It made me reflect on something we don’t always talk about in hiring.
In many cases, we are looking for the “perfect fit”.

But in reality, the market doesn’t always present that perfect profile at the exact time we need it.

People move in and out of roles constantly.
The ideal candidate we have in mind may not be actively looking.
And by the time we continue searching, the business need is still there, sometimes even more urgent.

In situations like this, the conversation naturally shifts.
From “Is this the perfect candidate?”
To “Is this someone who can grow into the role and support where the business is heading?”

There isn’t a fixed answer.

In this case, I made the decision to move forward based on the needs of the business and the growth ahead.
Even though the candidate did not tick every box, there was clear potential, and sometimes that matters just as much.

It’s a balance that feels more relevant than ever, especially in a fast-moving market.