Why the idea of a perfect candidate might be holding you back
Every agency wants the ideal hire. Someone who blends strategy, creativity, leadership and hands-on delivery. But here is the truth.
Those people are rare. And waiting for them can cost you far more than you realise.
In twenty twenty five, hiring for potential is not just a nice idea. It is a necessity. Right now, senior candidates are more available than they have been in years. But many are still passed over for not ticking every single box. Meanwhile, roles stay open. Teams burn out. Momentum disappears.
It is time to shift the brief.
Potential over perfection
Why it works
Research from Gartner shows that people hired for potential are almost twice as likely to become high performers. It makes sense. Technical skills evolve quickly. But things like curiosity, adaptability and drive are more enduring.
We see this every day. Agencies that hire based on mindset and values build stronger teams. These teams are more stable. They stay longer. They bring broader thinking and better energy.
Still need convincing? Here is what we are seeing:
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Long delays in hiring are affecting team performance
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Most hiring issues come from attitude, not lack of skill
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Retention improves when people feel they are learning and contributing
It is no longer just about who can do the job today. It is about who can grow with the business tomorrow.
What hiring for potential really looks like
Hiring for potential does not mean lowering your standards. It means updating how you define excellence.
Focus on mindset, not just checklists
Look for curiosity. Ask whether the person wants to grow. Do they ask smart questions? Are they open to learning?
Hire for contribution, not just alignment
You do not need cultural replicas. You need thinkers who challenge the norm. Innovation comes from fresh perspectives.
Make growth visible
Be clear about training and mentoring. Show what development looks like at your business.
Use stay interviews instead of waiting for resignations
Ask people what is working and what is not before they start thinking about leaving. Listen and adjust.
What we are seeing in Sydney and Melbourne
Senior creative talent is more available now than it has been since early twenty twenty. Many strong candidates were affected by restructures in the past two years. They are ready to contribute but are often overlooked for being overqualified.
At the same time, most new roles in Sydney and Melbourne are skewing junior to midweight. That is creating a disconnect.
We are seeing the most successful businesses respond by:
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Giving midweight talent the opportunity to step into leadership
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Hiring junior talent based on values and coachability
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Pairing less experienced team members with senior mentors who can guide and support
The best teams we help build are not built on unicorns. They are built on trust, shared goals and the right mix of thinkers and doers.
What candidates want in twenty twenty five
According to the latest data from SEEK and LinkedIn, creative, digital and marketing talent are focused on three things.
Flexibility
Over seventy percent of candidates say they will not consider a role without it.
Culture
Eighty three percent of candidates say they would leave a business if values are unclear or toxic.
Growth
Most would trade a job title for a clear and meaningful path forward.
These are the questions candidates are asking us every day. Not about perks or office design. About clarity. Connection. Progression.
If you want people to choose your agency, it is not enough to rely on your brand name. You have to show them they will be seen, supported and valued.
Our view
At The People Place, we have placed hundreds of creatives, strategists, marketers and digital specialists. The best hires — the ones who last — are not always the most polished on paper.
They are the ones who:
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Ask thoughtful questions
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Show a genuine desire to grow
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Add something new to the mix
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Turn up with care, intent and curiosity
If you are waiting on the perfect unicorn, you might be missing the best person for your team.
We can help you find them.
📩 Contact us at hello@peopleplace.com.au
🌐 Visit peopleplace.com.au
