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Finding a Diamond in the Rough: The Art of Spotting a Star Candidate

a stylized depiction of a diamond golf ball shaped diamond, lying "in the rough" (tall grass) on a golf course, and in the background a golfer bends over with his golf club to examine a golf ball
midjourney – stoakley-stewart consultants

When one looks at the intricate facets of a shimmering diamond, it’s hard to believe that it began its journey hidden deep within the Earth’s mantle, cloaked in obscurity and roughness. The same can be said about the world of recruiting. Just as a gemologist can see the potential of a rough diamond, a skilled recruiter possesses the ability to spot a star candidate amidst a pool of numerous applicants. Here’s how quality recruiters unearth shining candidates for their clients’ most glittering opportunities:

 

  • Buried Deep: Just like diamonds are located deep within the Earth’s crust, often, the most valuable candidates are not on the surface, waiting to be found. They might not actively be looking for a job or may not have the most polished resume, but their potential, when unearthed, can be unparalleled.

 

  • Requires a Trained Eye: A gemologist, with years of experience, can identify a diamond’s value by looking at its raw form. Similarly, experienced recruiters can spot unique skills, untapped potential, and the right attitude in candidates that others might overlook.

 

  • Going Beyond the Surface: The brilliance of a diamond is not visible in its rough state. One has to look beyond the immediate surface. In recruiting, this means diving deeper into a candidate’s background, analyzing their responses, understanding their passion, and evaluating their potential for growth.

 

  • The Refinement Process: Once a rough diamond is identified, it goes through a process of cutting and polishing to reveal its true shine. In a similar fashion, even if a candidate seems raw or lacking in certain areas, with the right training and mentorship, they can grow to become indispensable assets to an organization.

 

  • Rare and Unique: Not every rock is a diamond, just as not every candidate is a star player. The rarity of such candidates makes the search harder but also more rewarding. When you do find that perfect fit, they often bring unique perspectives and skills that can transform the very fabric of an organization.

 

  • Value Appreciation: Over time, the value of a well-maintained diamond increases. Similarly, a star candidate, when nurtured and placed in the right environment, can contribute immensely to the organization, resulting in exponential growth and success.

 

While the challenges of finding that ‘diamond’ candidate might be daunting, the rewards are invaluable. Just as gemologists take pride in discovering and crafting beautiful diamonds, recruiters too have the opportunity to find and mold the future leaders and innovators. So, the next time you’re diving into the vast talent pool, remember, there could be a diamond waiting to be discovered. It’s all about having the vision, patience, and expertise to spot it.


Are you an EMPLOYER digging for diamonds but unearthing mostly cubic zirconia? We have a certain and trained eye for the rarest gemstones. Please share your most important and/or pressing hiring needs with us today for a zero pressure conversation about the shining talent your organization covets.

Ready to shine even brighter? Have a peruse of our lucrative, important and exciting job opportunities with industry-leaders and show all your colours!