The parallels between recruitment and dating

Dating and recruitment, surely, they have nothing in common, right? Well, according to a recruitment organisation, navigating the complexities of the dating scene can be eerily similar to job recruitment.

Recruitment firms, such as u&u Recruitment Partners, are increasingly acknowledging the similarities between building a relationship and hiring. The dating scene has been used as an example to formulate those relationships within the recruitment space, admitting that similar instances of excitement, butterflies and awkwardness are common practices in both dating and recruitment.

Craig Sneesby, managing director of u&u Recruitment Partners, said: “Recruiting is a lot like dating – it’s about finding that perfect match where compatibility, chemistry, and shared values align seamlessly.”

“Just like in dating, the goal is to build a lasting connection that both parties are excited about and committed to. It’s about creating relationships that flourish, whether in love or in the workplace.”

Matchmaking dating apps often dive into the individual preferences and values that a person has, much like the recruitment scene, which invests in understanding the company’s culture and the candidate’s career aspirations.

By fostering a genuine connection and building that mutual compatibility, firms aim to create a professional partnership that mirrors a successful romantic relationship.

Sneesby points out the direct parallels between the two terrains, through five steps:

1. Avoiding the “ick factors”

“Just like in dating, recruiters are masters at spotting those little ‘ick’ factors that can make or break a match. Whether it’s a quirky habit or an incompatible demeanour, these nuances matter. After all, no one wants a team member who clashes with the company culture faster than you’d swipe left on a cringe-worthy dating profile,” Sneesby said.

2. Making recruiters “swipe right”

“In the very fast-paced world of recruitment, first impressions are everything – much like swiping right on a dating app. A killer résumé or a standout LinkedIn profile acts as an eye-catching profile picture that makes recruiters stop and take notice. It’s like love at first sight but for your career,” Sneesby said.

“The journey starts with that initial spark – a well-crafted cover letter or a memorable networking chat – that leads to the coveted first interview. It’s akin to setting up a first date, where both parties hope to hit it off.”

3. Aligning with company culture and values

“Finding the right fit isn’t just about skills; it’s about shared values and goals. Recruiters play matchmaker, looking for candidates who mesh with the company’s vibe. Think teamwork, innovation, and integrity – qualities that ensure harmonious work relationships, much like finding a partner who shares your life goals,” Sneesby said.

4. The mutual evaluation

“The interview process mirrors dating – it’s a delicate dance of mutual evaluation. Recruiters showcase their company’s perks and growth opportunities, wooing candidates much like someone would charm a potential partner with promises of a bright future together,” Sneesby said.

“Candidates, in turn, scrutinise the company’s environment and growth prospects. It’s about compatibility – ensuring the professional relationship has a solid foundation, just like a successful romantic partnership.”

5. The commitment

“When the stars align, and both sides feel the connection, it’s time to seal the deal. The job offer becomes the relationship status update – both parties commit to a future together. It’s not just about filling a position; it’s about building a lasting professional relationship based on trust and mutual understanding,” Sneesby said.

Overall, the recruitment and dating scenes share common threads around forming relationships and building compatibility. A positive mutual evaluation, which builds into that commitment, is crucial in the recruitment space for both the recruiter and the candidate. In dating and recruitment, trust is the overarching ideal that is often the foundational piece to finding success.

Being able to trust someone is the end goal when you’re in the dating scene, and that mirrors the recruitment space. That trust will allow the relationship between the recruiter and the candidate to thrive, thus resulting in a successful partnership that leaves both parties happy.