In an ideal world, hiring would follow a clear path: post a job, review resumes, interview candidates, make an offer, and celebrate when the new employee accepts the position. However, the reality is far more complex. Recruiting processes aren’t linear, especially in specialized fields like market research and consumer insights.
For hiring managers and candidates alike, understanding this nonlinear journey is key to making better decisions faster.
Detours and Pivots Are Normal
According to GoodTime’s 2025 Hiring Insights Report, 60% of companies experienced longer time-to-hire processes in 2024. This truly illustrates just how unpredictable hiring has become.
From sudden budget shifts to changing business priorities, it’s rare for a search to stay exactly on track from day one. Often, roles evolve mid-search. Sometimes a “perfect” candidate declines an offer, forcing a reset. Other times, an unexpected internal hire fills the spot.
Recognizing that recruiting processes aren’t linear helps everyone involved stay adaptable and resilient when plans don’t go as anticipated.
To learn more about adaptability in the workplace, check out our team’s analysis of the most important soft skills that someone in research and insights must have.
Communication Keeps You on Course when Recruiting Processes Aren’t Linear
The best way to navigate this winding process? Clear, consistent communication.
Employers benefit by keeping recruiters looped in about shifting priorities, approvals, or internal changes. Additionally, candidates appreciate transparent updates, even if the news isn’t ideal. In this case, honesty really is the best policy.
Overall, regular check-ins help set clear expectations, prevent misunderstandings, and build trust throughout the search.
Stay Flexible to Find the Fit
It’s important to keep in mind that nonlinear doesn’t mean chaotic. It means staying open-minded.
Sometimes the right candidate looks different from the original job description, and sometimes timing falls into place later than planned. When everyone trusts the process, better matches happen.
Flexibility turns uncertainty into opportunity.
In summary, recruiting processes aren’t linear, but they’re navigable.
Communicate openly, stay flexible, and partner with specialists who know your industry’s unique twists and turns.
