Recruitment with the principles of Aikido

Recruitment is an essential component of any organization's success. Hiring the right people can make a significant difference in the company's growth and profitability. But not all hiring processes are created equal. Many recruiters tend to be adversarial and combative, seeking to win the war for talent at all costs.

However, as someone with a first dan in Aikido, I believe that recruitment can be approached with the principles of Aikido. Aikido is a martial art that emphasizes blending with an opponent's energy and redirecting it rather than using brute force to confront it directly. This same philosophy can serve as a guide for a better hiring experience for both recruiters and candidates alike.

Here are some principles of Aikido that can be applied to the recruitment process:

Respect for others

In Aikido, respect for others is paramount. This respect is not just for our opponents on the mat but extends to all beings. Applying this principle to recruitment means treating candidates with dignity and honoring their time and effort. This involves responding to their inquiries, providing them with relevant information about their application, and communicating transparently about the process timeline.

Centering oneself

In Aikido, we are taught to center ourselves before taking any action. This involves being mindful of our energy and intentions before engaging in any physical interaction. Applying this principle to recruitment means taking the time to reflect on our hiring needs and the job description, and ensuring that we are genuinely seeking the right fit for the role.

Blending with energy

In Aikido, blending with an opponent's energy is essential to redirecting it. In recruitment, this means understanding the candidate's unique qualities and how they fit with the organization's culture and values. Instead of seeking to impose a one-size-fits-all approach to the hiring process, recruiters can tailor their approach to each candidate's circumstances.

Creating a win-win situation

In Aikido, we strive to create a win-win situation where both parties benefit. In recruitment, this means ensuring that candidates feel valued and that the organization is committed to their professional growth and development. This can be achieved by providing a clear career path, offering training and mentorship opportunities, and providing competitive compensation and benefits packages.

Continuous learning

In Aikido, we have never finished learning. There is always more to discover, and we must be humble enough to keep an open mind and continuously seek improvement. This principle can be applied to recruitment by seeking feedback from candidates and other stakeholders involved in the hiring process. This feedback can be used to adjust and refine the recruitment process continually.

In conclusion, approaching recruitment with the principles of Aikido can create a more positive and productive experience for both recruiters and candidates. The recruitment process does not have to be antagonistic; instead, it can be a collaborative effort to find the right fit for the organization. By embracing principles such as respect, centering oneself, blending with energy, creating a win-win situation, and continuous learning, recruiters can build a strong and talented team that contributes to the company's success.