Candidate Presentation: Parallels between Professional Sports and Talent Acquisition

Image of a stadium with the text "Candidate Presentation: Parallels between Professional Sports and Talent Acquisition"
By
Maud-Emilie Goyer
Best practices /
Recruitment /
Processes

Imagine yourself in the stands of a stadium: recruiters are the “scouts,” scrutinizing every move on the field to spot the player with invaluable skills for their team. Every detail counts, from past performances to how the player adapts to various game contexts.

Just like in sports, recruitment is driven by the pursuit of ideal talent. Each “scout” (recruiter) is on a mission to find that rare gem to strengthen their team. A well-crafted strategy can propel a team to victory, and a compelling candidate presentation can catalyze significant success for a company.

A skilled recruiter understands the “coach’s” (hiring manager’s) needs, studies the strengths and weaknesses of talent, and thoroughly analyzes a candidate’s career path to determine if they have what it takes to excel in the role. Once you've made your choice, you need to highlight the talent's skills and achievements convincingly: each success story is like scoring a goal.

Showcasing Achievements in 5 Steps:

  • Start with a Clear Structure 
    Your candidate presentation should be organized. Begin with an informative email title, followed by a strong introduction. Explain why you believe this candidate is a great fit, building excitement for the hiring manager.
  • Outline Key Skills 
    List the candidate’s key skills, then highlight their achievements, quantifying successes where possible and providing relevant examples.
  • Personalize to the Hiring Manager’s Needs 
    Tailor your presentation to show how the candidate’s skills align with the company’s needs. Adapt to the hiring manager’s style—some prefer direct messaging, while others may appreciate a more detailed overview.
  • Be Transparent 
    If there are any potential drawbacks, list them to avoid surprises. Use clear, positive language, and address potential concerns proactively.
  • Keep It Concise and End with a Call to Action 
    In both sports and business, time is valuable. Avoid unnecessary details; focus on the most relevant points. Conclude with a call to action, inviting the hiring manager to move forward.

Recruitment is a team effort, and now the ball is in your court. By following these principles in your next candidate presentation, you will guide your “coach” to select the best talent for the team, helping the company achieve its goals.