Stretch recruiting: revolutionising workforce diversity

In the fast-paced and ever-evolving landscape of modern business, the concept of recruiting has transcended its conventional boundaries.

It’s no longer just about matching qualifications to job descriptions; it’s about seeking individuals who possess the ability to stretch, adapt, and grow alongside the organisation. This transformative approach to recruitment is aptly named “recruiting for stretch,” and it’s redefining how companies identify and harness human potential.

Not only is this opening the talent landscape for businesses trying to fill roles, it’s also allowing them revolutionise workforce diversity.

What is recruiting for stretch?

At its core, recruiting for stretch is a strategic process that focuses on identifying candidates who possess not only the current skills required for a specific role but also the capacity and willingness to learn, adapt, and take on new challenges. It’s about looking beyond the resume and envisioning how an individual’s potential can be cultivated and maximised over time.

One of the key tenets of recruiting for stretch is the recognition that skills and roles are subject to change due to technological advancements, market shifts, and organisational evolution. A candidate’s ability to embrace and navigate these changes becomes paramount. When organisations recruit for stretch, they are essentially seeking employees who can be moulded into leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers.

Identifying candidates with a propensity for stretch involves an evaluation process. Rather than ticking off boxes on a checklist, recruiters delve into a candidate’s past experiences, their adaptability in unfamiliar situations, and their capacity to learn from setbacks. Behavioural interviews, case studies, and simulation exercises are some of the tools used to assess a candidate’s potential to stretch beyond their current capabilities.

Recruiting for stretch is also deeply aligned with the concept of a growth mindset, the belief that one’s abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort, learning, and persistence. By seeking candidates who inherently embrace this mindset, organisations ensure a workforce that thrives on challenges and sees setbacks as opportunities for growth.

Does recruiting for stretch result in better candidates?

Incorporating recruiting for stretch into an organisation’s talent acquisition strategy requires a shift in mindset for both recruiters and hiring managers. Instead of focusing solely on immediate job requirements, they must envision the future potential of candidates within the evolving framework of the company. This requires a long-term perspective that considers not only how candidates can contribute in the present but also how they can shape the organisation’s trajectory.

This extends beyond professional skills. It encompasses ‘soft skill’ qualities such as emotional intelligence, adaptability, and a thirst for learning. These traits are often the bedrock of successful leaders who can guide their teams through unpredictable circumstances and inspire innovation.

Emotional intelligence in particular is a key trait to look for in prospective candidates, particularly if the role you’re recruiting for is either a management position or could be a part of a pathway towards one. Many practical skills associated with roles can be taught through training and development, whereas softer skills are more difficult to teach.

The challenges of recruiting for stretch

Recruiting for stretch is not without its challenges. It demands a deeper understanding of an organisation’s goals and a keen anticipation of future industry trends. It requires a commitment to continuous learning and evolution, as organisations must remain agile to respond to changing circumstances. The process necessitates a careful balance between investing in existing employees’ development and bringing in new talent with growth potential.

Recruiting for stretch is a visionary approach that transcends the traditional boundaries of talent acquisition. It’s a strategy that seeks individuals not just for what they are today, but for what they can become tomorrow. By identifying candidates with the capacity to learn, adapt, and evolve, organisations position themselves for long-term success in a rapidly changing world. This approach acknowledges that the most valuable asset a company can possess is a workforce that thrives on challenges, values growth, and is poised to stretch beyond its current limitations. As the business landscape continues to evolve, recruiting for stretch can help improve workplace diversity as well as future-proof against changing trends and targets.

If you’re an organisation looking to attract the best talent or a candidate wanting to progress your career, get in touch with Morson or browse ​our latest jobs here.