Recruiting the X factor

So Autumn is upon us, the kids are back to school (yipeee) and normality can resume, in our house that means Saturday & Sunday night X Factor on the box in the corner of the room. As I sat watching some of the hopefulls (and downright loopers) on Saturday night it struck me, as a recruiter wouldn't it be liberating to be as honest as Gary Barlow and just tell people like it is that no 'sorry this role just isn't for you' or get super excited about someone as amazing as Sam Bailey because you can see the raw potential and natural talent.

As recruiters it is our job to spot those sparks of potential, our duty to our clients to encourage them to see past the image someone portrays when they walk into an interview situation. There were several gorgeous contestants on Saturday night who looked the part, full to enthusiasim and self confidence but couldn't sing a note, and then in walks Sam Bailey, shy, unasuming and clearly very nervous and BOOM she nails it, goose bumps all round.

We need to create situations where we can eliminate those who are full of ideas of grandeur but no have substance and elevate those who dispite initial appearances are full of promise and have the hunger and natural talent to suceed.

All too often I have sat on interview panels and seen candidates come and go, more often that not those who tell you everything you want to hear are very often not telling you everything at all. Those in the sharpest suits carrying the finest brief case are more worried about how they look and very often lack the depth of a true superstar. Look beyond the suit when hiring, ask the right questions, put them on the spot and give them a chance to show the real person, then you will make better hiring decisions and your business with prosper as a result.

The amazing Sam Bailey, beautiful lady & beautiful voice, good luck from team Epitome.