Is topgrading a double-edged sword in recruitment? The hosts dissect its pros and cons, sparked by listener feedback. They shine a light on the power of storytelling in interviews, revealing how personal experiences can unlock a candidate's true potential. Balancing structure with narrative is key to enriching the hiring process. Plus, they delve into the questions candidates ask, shedding light on what those queries reveal about motivations and priorities. Tune in for insights that challenge traditional hiring methods!
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Matt's Positive Topgrading Experience
Matt found topgrading useful for learning about candidates' challenges and character traits through storytelling.
He emphasized using reference checks to create comfort, not to catch candidates out.
insights INSIGHT
Storytelling Trumps Rigid Process
Storytelling during interviews reveals much more than resumes alone can.
Strict procedures restrict valuable conversations and reduce interview effectiveness.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Adopt Structure, Focus on Stories
If you lack a structured interview process, adopting one inspired by topgrading can help.
Focus interviews on candidates' past behaviors by encouraging story-telling for genuine insight.
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Is topgrading a controversial topic? It seems so. In this episode, Jeffrey and Squirrel revisit the theme of topgrading in recruitment, featured just two episodes ago. Join as they discuss a listener’s experience, the necessity for some structure in interviews and the benefits of learning from candidates' past experiences through stories.
SHOW LINKS:
- Topgrading: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topgrading
- Topgrading episode link: https://soundcloud.com/troubleshootingagile/threats-and-topgrading-in-executive-hiring
- Shu ha ri: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shuhari
- Squirrel's interviewing event: https://squirrelsquadron.com/events/2025/04-10-interviews
- TDD for People: https://itrevolution.com/articles/test-driven-development-for-people/
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You'll find free videos and practice material, plus our book Agile Conversations, at agileconversations.com
And we'd love to hear any thoughts, ideas, or feedback you have about the show: email us at info@agileconversations.com
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About Your Hosts
Douglas Squirrel and Jeffrey Fredrick joined forces at TIM Group in 2013, where they studied and practised the art of management through difficult conversations. Over a decade later, they remain united in their passion for growing profitable organisations through better communication.
Squirrel is an advisor, author, keynote speaker, coach, and consultant, and he's helped over 300 companies of all sizes make huge, profitable improvements in their culture, skills, and processes. You can find out more about his work here: douglassquirrel.com/index.html
Jeffrey is Vice President of Engineering at ION Analytics, Organiser at CITCON, the Continuous Integration and Testing Conference, and is an accomplished author and speaker. You can connect with him here: www.linkedin.com/in/jfredrick/
Troubleshooting Agile