You have two final candidates.
Candidate A
– Hits every requirement on the job description
– Impressive resume, strong references
– Polished in the interview
– Has done this exact role before
Candidate B
– Meets 70% of the requirements
– F... moreYou have two final candidates.
Candidate A
– Hits every requirement on the job description
– Impressive resume, strong references
– Polished in the interview
– Has done this exact role before
Candidate B
– Meets 70% of the requirements
– Fewer years of experience
– But in every conversation — sharp, curious, asks the right questions
– Adapts fast, owns their gaps, and has a track record of figuring things out
Who do you hire?
Most hiring managers default to Candidate A.
And many will tell you 6 months later — they wish they'd picked B.
Candidate A knew the job. But the role evolved and they didn't move with it. Candidate B didn't know everything. But they never stopped learning.
The best hire isn't always the most qualified on paper.
It's the one most capable of growing into what the role actually becomes.
Skills can be developed. Drive, adaptability, and resourcefulness are much harder to teach.
Who do you hire — and why? Drop it in the comments.
