Knowledge vs. Skill: The Hidden Gap in Hiring
Successful hiring requires more than just knowing what to do. It demands the subtle art of execution.
Let's explore why even well-designed hiring processes can fail, and how to bridge the gap between theory and practice.

by Joanna Byerley

The Two Types of Hiring Knowledge
Declarative Knowledge
The "what" of hiring:
  • Job descriptions
  • Employer value propositions
  • Process workflows
  • Interview questions
Procedural Knowledge
The "how" of execution:
  • Reading candidate signals
  • Tailoring approaches
  • Building authentic rapport
  • Maintaining engagement
Warning Signs You're Missing Procedural Skills
Candidate Ghosting
Promising candidates disappear without explanation after initial engagement.
Declined Offers
Candidates reach offer stage but ultimately walk away.
Stalled Progress
Hiring timelines extend without clear reasons.
Low Engagement
Candidates participate but show minimal enthusiasm.
The Crucial Procedural Skills

Strategic Adaptability
Adjusting approach based on candidate signals
Nuanced Communication
Balancing expectations with engagement
Authentic Personalisation
Creating tailored, not transactional experiences
Momentum Management
Maintaining progress without pressure
Risk Detection
Identifying issues before they derail the process
How Procedural Knowledge Develops

Theory & Training
Understanding fundamentals through education
Practical Experience
Handling diverse candidate situations
Iterative Refinement
Learning from successes and failures
Intuitive Mastery
Developing instinctive hiring expertise
The Real-World Impact
Bridging the Knowledge Gap

Identify Gaps
Analyse where your process consistently breaks down

Learn From Experts
Partner with experienced hiring professionals

Practice Deliberately
Focus on improving specific procedural skills

Measure Results
Track improvements in candidate engagement and conversion
Transform Your Hiring Results
87%
Engagement Rate
With procedural expertise
58%
Faster Hiring
Through skilled process management
92%
Offer Acceptance
With personalised approaches
Ready to build a hiring process that consistently lands the right people?
Let's talk about bridging your knowledge-execution gap.