🔍 The 3 C’s of Hiring: What Really Matters
When you’re hiring, skills are just part of the equation. To build a strong, lasting team, here are the three C’s you should always check for:
1. Character
Integrity. Humility. Reliability. The foundation of trust. Someone might be brilliant on paper, but if character is weak—when no one’s watching, under pressure—it can erode teamwork, culture, and morale.
2. Competence
Can they do the job? Skills, experience, problem-solving ability—not just ticking boxes on a resume but also proving themselves in real situations. Ability plus adaptability make a difference.
3. Chemistry
How well are they going to work with others? Will they uplift the team, fit into the culture, collaborate well, contribute positively (not just “fit in” but bring out the best)? Often less visible on resumes but just as critical.
Why these matter:
- Character ensures your foundation is stable—bad behavior or ethics lapses cost far more than a skill gap.
- Competence ensures you get results and can scale & succeed. Skills can be developed, but there must be a baseline.
- Chemistry ensures longevity. A person with strong skills but who clashes with the team might burn bridges, lead to lower morale, higher turnover.
Pro Tip:
- In your interviews & hiring process, rank these C’s in priority. Many experts suggest character first, then competence, and finally chemistry. Use behavioral questions, peer feedback or trial assignments, and check references—especially about how people worked when under stress or had to collaborate.
