What does "hiring for fit" actually mean?

Is it me or does this really not make much sense? In any office there are a mix of personalities, backgrounds, motivations, and biases. I would assume that everyone who brings in a new Analyst/Associate wants to hire someone who's competent, honest, hard-working, easy to work with, but also personable enough to have a beer with.

Is hiring for fit a real concept or does it just mean filtering out weirdos who will make your life hell? Anyone have stories of some bad fits, cultural or otherwise?

 

fit: good attitude, someone that represents the firm well, and in practice a similar/relatable background to others at the firm

 

"Hiring for fit" is indeed a real concept, and it's more than just filtering out individuals who might not gel well with the team. It's about finding someone who aligns with the company's values, culture, and work style. It's about finding someone who can not only do the job well but also contribute positively to the team dynamics and overall work environment.

However, there's a fine line to walk here. Overemphasis on fit can lead to overlooking well-qualified applicants who might not seem like the "perfect fit" at first glance. It's important to balance the need for fit with the need for skills, intelligence, and drive.

As for stories of bad fits, well, I've seen my fair share. There are those who might be technically proficient but lack the right attitude or interpersonal skills to work well with the team. Then there are those who might be a great fit personality-wise but lack the necessary skills or drive to perform well in their role. It's a delicate balance to strike, and it's not always easy.

Remember, it's not just about hiring the biggest "bro" or the person you'd most like to grab a beer with. It's about finding someone who can contribute positively to the team and the company as a whole.

Sources: Overemphasis on fit, Heard a story of a diverse candidate getting a job over someone who was actually the best candidate...

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

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