Hiring Isn't Just About Skills. It's About Chemistry Too.
In recruitment, it's easy to rely on CVs and checklists. But focusing only on predefined requirements can mean missing out on the best people. Some of the strongest candidates don’t have a perfect paper trail. What they do have is the right attitude, presence and energy to succeed.
What a CV Won’t Show You
A CV offers a snapshot of someone's experience and qualifications. But it rarely tells you what they’re like to work with. In a world where AI can be used to craft applications that match job descriptions word for word, it’s becoming harder to know what’s real. Many candidates now submit applications that look ideal on the surface but lack any genuine insight into who they are.
This puts hiring managers in a difficult position. Make decisions based on documents alone, and you risk bringing someone into your business who looks great on paper but lacks the personality or communication style that your team needs.
Skills Matter, But So Does Chemistry
Technical ability is important, but the way someone interacts with others is often what shapes success in a role. Soft skills like empathy, adaptability and emotional intelligence are essential, especially in positions such as Executive Assistant and Personal Assistant.
These roles require more than task management. They demand initiative, trust and the ability to read a room. No CV can accurately measure that. The best candidates bring a mix of competence and chemistry, which is why it’s important to look beyond the words on a page.
Face-to-Face Matters
We understand that many companies are focusing on internal recruitment. CV screening is often a necessary part of that process. It’s efficient and, in many cases, built into policy. It also has limits.
At Lily Shippen, we have a face-to-face with candidates before putting them forward for a role. It’s one of the most important things we do. It allows us to get a real sense of the individual, how they present themselves and whether they’ll be the right fit for a client’s business. Not just in terms of experience, but in terms of values, personality and working style.
We’re not suggesting that you must use an agency. We know that isn’t always an option. Whether you are hiring internally or working with a recruiter, bringing the human element into the process is key.
Making Space for Chemistry
Hiring doesn’t have to be transactional. Small changes can help you assess chemistry as well as competence:
These steps help move beyond a checklist and into a more thoughtful, balanced approach to recruitment.
Final Thoughts
AI will continue to shape the way people apply for roles. It makes the process faster and more targeted, but it also removes the human element. It’s important to remember that people are what matter most.
Hiring based on chemistry and soft skills leads to stronger teams, better retention and long-term success. That’s why Lily Shippen focuses on people, not just profiles.
If you are recruiting and want to feel confident that you’ve found the right person, not just the right CV, we can help. Get in touch to learn more about our approach.