This is an ‘open’ blog, as I really would appreciate some insights on this one.

My question is, can HR really spot star talent? I know it may sound like an absurd question, but seriously are HR teams geared up for spotting the ‘A Class’ type of candidate? The reason I ask this is because I have witnessed HR fulfilling the task of recruitment, like they would go about their daily supermarket shopping ie: with a tick list of things they want.

I have actually taken it upon myself to ask my clients and their HR teams the same questions. They say the right things of course. However speaking with some of my own HR friends, I have found that they are often in a catch 22 situation, as they are under pressure to ‘save time’, so often perform a rigid check-list, which often misses out the ‘softer’ more subliminal messages, which help us recruiter ascertain the stars from the norm.

Sometimes, candidates may not even get past resume stage, ie: HR can’t see the prescribed formula that some of them apply, therefore the resume goes in the bin. What about the fact that some people have transferable skills? And what about the fact that sometimes it may not be best to go for the ‘perfect’ fit, but to go for the ‘surprise fit’.

I feel sometimes there could be a dilemma for our HR friends, especially the ones who are more ‘CV Processors’ as opposed to ‘CV Extractors’. This begs the questions, if HR are indeed unable to spot Star talent, then is this because of one of the following:

a) They actually don’t understand what they are looking for?

b) They themselves are the wrong people in charge of recruitment?

c) They don’t appreciate/care what the full impact of what ‘bad hiring’ means for the bottom line

d) They have had inadequate training?

e) Everything above

Don’t get me wrong, there are some fairly slick HR teams and companies out there, who are doing a darn fine job of attracting and retaining talent, but I could count them on both hands only.

Do companies really recognise talent or are they ships passing by each other through the night?

Please share your experiences