Company Blog

Why Hiring Needs To Evolve: It’s Not Just About Skills

by Adam Zack — July 16, 2025

“The best candidates aren’t always the ones with the longest résumés—they’re the ones who bring qualities that don’t show up on a list of prior jobs or certifications.”

Too often, employers—and job seekers—get hung up on experience and technical skills when evaluating candidates. Sure, experience matters. You wouldn’t hand the keys to an 18-wheeler to someone who’s only ridden a bike. The guy twisting balloon animals at the fair doesn’t suddenly qualify as an anesthesiologist because he knows how to work a helium tank. And just because Cousin Larry colors inside the lines doesn’t make him a graphic designer. But in our world—the food business—experience requirements for roles like prep cook, cashier, stock clerk, meat cutter, or customer service supervisor are sometimes overemphasized. Managers often see experience as a must just to get an interview. Here’s the reality: the labor market is tight and wages are rising. Hiring practices need to evolve. The best candidates aren’t always the ones with the longest résumés—they’re the ones who bring qualities that don’t show up on a list of prior jobs or certifications.

I recently came across a list that perfectly captures this mindset:

10 Things That Require Zero Talent:

Being on time
Work ethic
Effort
Energy
Body language
Passion
Doing extra
Being prepared
Being coachable
Attitude

These are the real differentiators. Candidates who show up with these attributes are far more likely to get hired, thrive, and stick around. So maybe it’s time we shift the focus. Hire for qualities. Train for skills. That’s how you build a stronger, more resilient team.