Seven Reasons Why Hiring Managers Should Consider Candidates with Different Industry Backgrounds

It’s no secret that in today’s business climate – change is constant, and the evolving workplace landscape requires more flexibility than ever before. This is true in attracting and on-boarding new talent.  While it may be tempting for hiring managers to stick to the tried-and-true path of hiring candidates with industry-specific experience, there are several reasons to consider diversifying your candidate pool from different industries.  A few of these benefits include creativity & fresh ideas, adaptability & eagerness to learn, broader skill sets, team collaboration & problem solving, growth, diversity, and futureproofing:

1. Creativity & Fresh Ideas – When you hire candidates with diverse industry backgrounds, you’re injecting your team with innovation and creativity. This often brings individuals with unique problem-solving skills and perspectives that can lead to out-of-the-box solutions. Their ability to think differently can be a game-changer, especially in industries where disruption and innovation are key drivers of success.
2. Adaptability & Eagerness to Learn – Candidates who have successfully transitioned from one industry to another often demonstrate remarkable adaptability and an eagerness to learn, stimulating more professional development for the individual and energy to your team. They have proven capabilities in quickly grasping new concepts and adapting to unfamiliar environments. In a world where change is constant, employees who can pivot and thrive in various situations can add significant value to your team.
3. Broader Skill Sets – Employees with diverse backgrounds bring a wide range of skills to the table. They may have honed skills in their previous roles that are transferable and valuable in your industry. For example, a business analyst or financial analyst in the banking industry may bring perspective to an industrial or technology company, blending data-driven decision-making and creativity in a unique way.
4. Team Collaboration & Problem Solving – Employees of different industries often face similar challenges but approach them differently. Hiring candidates from diverse backgrounds can lead to a rich exchange of ideas, best practices and methodologies for problem-solving. This cross-collaboration of ideas can lead to better solutions that draw from a wider pool of experiences.
5. Growth – Candidates with backgrounds different from your own can help position the company for growth, whether that be organic with staff expansion, new product launches, or through mergers & acquisitions. The insights of candidates with different employee, vendor and customer behaviors can open up new avenues and help you achieve your management objectives.
6. Diversity – Hiring individuals with varied industry backgrounds may promote cultural diversity within your organization. This diversity fosters an inclusive and dynamic workplace, which can improve employee morale, retention, and overall company culture.
7. Future-Proofing – Technology advances and consumer/client needs and preferences change. Hiring candidates with diverse backgrounds can help future-proof your organization by leveraging a versatile talent pool that can adapt to emerging trends and challenges.

There are even more reasons than those mentioned above why there is value for hiring managers in looking beyond their own industry when seeking talent.  Please consider the opportunity that expanded and different skill sets can drive innovation and growth. Embracing diversity in experience can be a strategic advantage in today’s ever-evolving business environment, positioning your organization for success in the long run.