The Ideal Candidate is a Myth. Growth is What Matters.
As recruiters and hiring managers, we often start with a wishlist, a long list of skills and traits we think we need.
But in reality? We hire people, not checklists.
  • We choose those who show potential.
  • Who are open to learning.
  • Who may not know it all yet, but are ready to grow with us.
Because the best hires aren’t always the ones who tick every box. They’re the ones who grow into the role (and often beyond it).
So if you’re job hunting and feel “not qualified enough,” don’t count yourself out.
Your mindset might be your biggest strength.
Here’s what you can do:
  1. Show your growth mindset >> Share how you’ve learned new tools, adapted quickly, or taken initiative.
  2. Highlight transferable skills >> Even if your experience isn’t an exact match, is it similar? Show that.
  3. Align with values >> Cultural fit and genuine interest often matter more than perfection.
  4. Be honest, but confident >> It’s okay to say “I’m still learning…”, as long as you follow with action.
  5. Apply even if you’re 70–80% a match >> You don’t need to be perfect. You need to be ready.
What’s one small thing you can do this week to show you’re ready, not perfect?
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Nuri Amin
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The Ideal Candidate is a Myth. Growth is What Matters.
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