Let’s Talk About Hiring Challenges
We’ve all been there. You’re hiring for a critical role, and a candidate comes along who looks great on paper. Their resume checks all the boxes. Maybe they even have experience that makes you sit up and think, Wow, this could be a great fit. But then something happens, or doesn’t happen that makes you pause.
Let me share a story with you.
I recently posted a job ad that laid out exactly what we were looking for: someone dependable, detail-oriented, a lifelong learner, and someone who takes ownership of their work. As part of the application process, the candidates are asked to submit a short, 30-second video introducing themselves. Pretty simple, right?
Well, one candidate didn’t submit the video. Instead, they sent a note explaining they didn’t have access to a video camera on their phone or computer. I get it, life happens, and not everyone has access to the latest tech. So, I gave them another chance. I encouraged them to ask a friend or neighbor for help. I even reminded them why this step mattered: it wasn’t about the video itself—it was about showing they could deliver results without excuses.
Their response? “I want the job; that’s why I applied.” But instead of sending the video, the rest of the message said, “let’s meet in person, and I’ll tell you about my experience.”
And there it was—the red flag.
Why This Matters (and Why It Should Matter to You)
Here’s the thing: the hiring process isn’t just about checking off requirements. It’s about seeing how candidates show up, even when things aren’t convenient or easy. Think about it; if someone can’t follow a simple instruction during the application process, what does that say about how they’ll handle real challenges on the job?
In this case, the candidate missed two critical traits we were looking for:
Delivering results without excuses. Instead of finding a solution—borrowing a friend’s phone, using a library computer—they offered an excuse and a workaround. That’s not someone who’s going to thrive in a role that demands accountability.
Taking ownership and seeing challenges as opportunities. This was a chance to prove resourcefulness, creativity, and initiative. Instead, they shifted the responsibility back to me.
It’s not about the video. It’s about what the video represents: a willingness to follow through and find a way, no matter the obstacle.
But What If You’re Tempted to Make an Exception?
Let’s be real—it’s tempting to bend the rules sometimes. After all, you’re busy, the position needs to be filled, and this person seems almost perfect. But here’s what I’ve learned: compromising on your process almost always comes back to bite you.
Think about it:
Your process exists for a reason. It’s designed to identify the right people—the ones who align with your values and can actually do the job.
The wrong hire costs more than you think. One bad hire can disrupt your team, slow down progress, and even cost you good employees who get frustrated working with someone who’s not pulling their weight.
Sure, there are rare occasions when it might make sense to bend the rules—maybe someone has an extraordinary skill set or brings something unique to the table. But even then, you have to ask yourself: Am I solving a short-term problem at the expense of long-term success?
The Bigger Picture: What Your Process Says About You
Your hiring process isn’t just about finding the right candidate. It’s also about setting the tone for your company. It tells candidates and your current team…what matters to you.
By sticking to your process, you’re saying:
“We value people who take ownership.”
“We expect results, not excuses.”
“We don’t cut corners, and we don’t hire people who do.”
And here’s the best part: when you hold the line, you attract the people who get it. The ones who see your high standards and think, This is exactly the kind of place I want to work.
So, What’s the Takeaway?
Let me leave you with this: hiring isn’t just about filling a seat. It’s about building a team of people who will help your business grow and thrive. And that starts with sticking to your process—even when it’s tempting to make exceptions.
The next time you’re faced with a candidate who almost checks all the boxes, ask yourself: Am I willing to compromise my standards? Because every compromise you make today is a decision you’ll have to live with tomorrow.
Over to You
Are you finding it hard to stick to your hiring process? Or maybe you’re not sure if your process is doing its job in filtering the right candidates. Let’s talk. At Business Think, we specialize in helping businesses like yours find and hire A-players who deliver results…without excuses.
Reach out today, and let’s build the team your business deserves.
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