In search, everyone is hunting for the “unicorn”—that mythical 100% perfect candidate who ticks every single box. They don’t exist. There is always a compromise.
But here’s the hard truth: in a fast market, perfection is the enemy of progress. In Japan if a candidate has decided they want to move, managers in particular, they are going to have options. It is a seller’s market. Demand strips supply.
While you’re waiting for a flawless resume, your competitors are moving ahead, capturing market share, and closing deals. A 90% solution today is infinitely more valuable than a 100% solution next month.
Or while you are waiting to get your act together with regards to an offer… too late the candidate has accepted another offer. If is not uncommon for strong candidates to have a couple of offers on the table.
The Cost of Waiting
- Lost Momentum: Vacant leadership roles cost money, stall team productivity, and freeze decision-making.
- The Mirage of 100%: By the time you find the “perfect” candidate, the market has already shifted, or they’ve signed with someone else. As they say, “you snooze, you lose”.
- Aggressive Competitors: Fast-moving companies snap up top-tier talent while you’re busy debating minor bullet points.
The Playbook: Make the call, take the calculated risk, and adjust on the fly.
You can coach talent, fill skill gaps, and adapt strategy. What you can’t do is buy back lost time. In today’s business landscape, speed is your ultimate advantage. Stop waiting, start hiring, and build momentum.
If you are planning to hire for your team, Book a Discovery Session with us today to discuss how we can support your hiring goals.
