Rino’s perspective
Why we end up hiring the “best of the rest”… even when we know it’s not the right profile
There’s a situation I see often. A hiring process is launched.
Applications come in. Interviews move forward.
And quickly, a reality sets in.
Most profiles don’t truly match the need.
Not quite the right level. Not quite the right experience. Not quite the right fit.
But the process is already in motion.
And at some point, pressure builds.
The role needs to be filled. The team is waiting. The manager wants to move forward.
A reader recently asked me:
“Why do we feel compelled to choose… even when we know it’s not the right profile?”
That’s where the decision happens.
We look at the remaining candidates. We compare. We start adjusting our expectations.
And eventually, we make a choice.
Not the right profile. The best of the rest.
In the moment, the decision feels reasonable.
The person is capable. They can “do the job.” They’re the best available option.
And most importantly… they allow things to move forward.
But in reality, the impact shows up elsewhere.
A hire like this doesn’t solve the problem. It transforms it. The role is filled.
But the workload doesn’t disappear.
The manager compensates. The team adjusts.
Expectations are lowered.
And over time, the organization adapts.
To an “acceptable” level. To average performance. To slower progress.
Let’s be honest:
The cost of hiring the “best of the rest” isn’t immediate.
It builds over time.
It’s extra time.
Extra energy. Slower decisions.
Ongoing friction.
And above all… a missed opportunity.
Because the right hire would have changed the dynamic.
They would have reduced pressure.
Brought clarity.
Accelerated progress.
But that scenario never happens.
Understanding talent also means understanding this:
not making a decision is sometimes less risky than making the wrong one.
Because in the end,
it’s not waiting that costs you the most.
Discover the Talent Scout approach
Does this resonate with you?
If yes, tell us why.
If not, tell us what’s missing or what you experience differently.
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