In the world of recruitment, most employees prefer to hire candidates with experience in the company’s industry or who have performed a similar job function. 

While having the right experience and industry knowledge is beneficial, hiring talent outside your industry sector can introduce unique value to your business. 

It can also be an excellent way to promote change and creativity. 

Below, we’ve outlined the key benefits of recruiting candidates from different industries and how they can pave the way for untapped expertise.

Drives innovation when hiring outside the company

Hiring candidates from outside your industry opens up the opportunity to bring in professionals who can positively reinvent the workplace. 

This presents growth opportunities, which can drive a business forward and become even more successful. 

While hiring someone from your sector might be the safer option, hiring candidates with little industry exposure can give your organisation a new perspective. 

Professionals moving into a new sector are often more adaptable and willing to embrace different ways of working. 

Above all, employers can expand their knowledge and outlook by recruiting skilled candidates from other sectors.

Diverse talent pool when hiring outside

One of the main benefits of hiring outside of your industry is the opportunity to diversify your candidate reach and company culture. 

This includes hiring professionals with a unique mindset and transferrable skills that are well-suited to the position you’re hiring for. 

Also, by widening your search to include candidates from different industries, you’ll have more access to highly qualified candidates who can potentially introduce a new way of thinking. 

It enables leaders to challenge traditional strategies and solutions and create a diverse organisation. 

Diversity also includes different personalities and life experiences, both of which can contribute to the success of a business.

Focus on soft skills when hiring outside

There is no question that hiring from another industry forces leaders to pay closer attention to soft skills. 

They make up for what a candidate may lack in industry knowledge in well-developed soft skills, such as communication, analytical skills and leadership abilities. 

While a candidate from a different sector will need time to adapt to a new environment, hiring for soft skills increases your chances of finding the right candidate who can fit seamlessly into the culture. 

The benefit of recruiting candidates from a different industry is that it will prompt hiring managers to take an even deeper look at a candidate’s potential and capabilities, which include soft skills.

Improved employer brand when hiring outside

As a result of diversifying your workforce, you’ll build up a renewed perception of your employer brand. 

Building a reputation as a company that recruits ambitious professionals from different backgrounds looking to broaden their skills will positively impact your employer brand. 

It’s well known that a strong employer brand allows businesses to thrive in a competitive market and attract the best talent. 

Therefore, leaders must create a varied workforce to position the company for growth and to improve its culture.

Are you looking to hire new talent?

At Swisslinx, we specialise in various recruitment markets, including finance, digital and technology, life sciences and technical services. 

We’re a leading talent partner with an excellent track record of building global relationships with various clients and candidates. 

We pride ourselves on providing an efficient, effective service that consistently delivers results. Our consultants are highly dedicated and knowledgeable about the sectors they recruit into. 

Contact our team today if you’re looking for support with your recruitment strategy, and keep reading Swisslinx’s blog for more engaging insights.