Understanding the art and science of recruitment with Ronesh Puri, Managing Director, Executive Access India
“The rarest ability is the ability to recognize ability.”- Elbert Green Hubbard, American writer, publisher, artist, and philosopher.
On the sidelines of the 8th Global Business Summit in New Delhi, Ronesh Puri, the Managing Director of Executive Access India, renowned for placing over 600 candidates in leadership positions across various industries, shared his insights on the delicate art of recruitment with ET Edge Insights.
As the conversation delved into the intricacies of hiring, Puri emphasizes the pivotal role it plays in shaping the destiny of organizations.
“Hiring is a challenging job,” remarks Puri, his voice carrying the weight of experience. “It can make or break an organization.”
He goes on to highlight the staggering costs associated with mis-hires, citing Bradford Smart’s research, which suggests that a misaligned candidate could cost nearly 26 times their annual compensation, extending up to a whopping 100 times.
Puri underscores the rarity of the ability to recognize true potential in candidates, emphasizing the complexity of deciphering human nature. “Getting into the skin of a candidate requires a blend of art and science,” he says. “Especially in more senior roles, where intuition and gut feelings play a significant role.”
Offering invaluable advice, Puri stresses the importance of having the right strategies and frameworks in place to mitigate the risks of mis-hiring. “Understanding the candidate’s DNA and professional capabilities is key,” he says. “It’s not just about evaluating their skills; it’s about understanding who they are as individuals.”
While acknowledging the role of technology in modern recruitment, Puri cautions against over-reliance, particularly in senior leadership hiring. “Technology can aid in hiring for junior roles,” he acknowledges. “But when it comes to senior leadership positions, the human touch is irreplaceable.”
Sharing practical insights into his approach, Puri advocates for a holistic evaluation process that goes beyond traditional methods. “Role-playing with candidates can offer valuable insights,” he says. “Observing how they navigate different scenarios can provide a deeper understanding of their capabilities and fit within the organization.”
As the conversation draws to a close, Puri’s wisdom resonates with recruiters and leaders alike, offering a glimpse into the nuanced world of recruitment where every decision carries the potential to shape the future of businesses and careers.
