News

•  Vanessa Lalani
•  26th Feb 2025

​The Hidden Cost of Delayed Job Offers: Why Speed Matters in Hiring​Top candidates today have options—No matter the market.A slow hiring process can signal indecisiveness, inefficiency, or a lack of urgency—damaging your professional brand and making it harder to attract top talent in the future.Hiring the right candidate is one of the most critical decisions a business can make. But even after you’ve found the perfect fit, the hiring process isn’t over—how quickly you move from interview to offer can make or break the deal. ​Why Delays Cost You Top TalentGreat candidates, particularly at senior levels, carefully evaluate their career moves. They assess not just the role but also the hiring experience itself. A slow or disorganised process can raise red flags about an organisation’s efficiency, decision-making, and internal culture. These professionals are often not actively job hunting, which makes them even harder to move—if the hiring process feels uncertain or frustrating, they’ll simply stay where they are or accept another offer.​1. Your Company’s Reputation Is at StakeA slow hiring process doesn’t just frustrate candidates—it shapes their perception of your organisation. If your process is drawn out, candidates may assume decision-making within your company is slow, priorities are unclear, or leadership lacks urgency. In contrast, companies that move efficiently are seen as decisive, well-organised, and highly attractive employers.​2. Candidates See Delays as a Red FlagA lengthy hiring timeline can make candidates question how much they’re valued. Once a senior executive makes a decison to move, they will usually explore several opportunities. If another employer makes a swift and decisive offer, they’re more likely to accept it—seeing them as more committed and proactive. Delays can also create doubt about your company’s internal efficiency and work culture.​3. Your Hiring Costs IncreaseEvery day a role remains unfilled costs your business in lost productivity, increased workload on existing team members, and potential revenue impact. A slow hiring process can also mean paying higher salaries—if you lose a strong candidate due to delays, you may have to increase the salary for the next best option.​4. The Candidate Experience SuffersWord travels fast, especially in tight-knit industries. If candidates feel frustrated by long hiring timelines, they may share their experience with peers or online, impacting your ability to attract talent in the future. A seamless and efficient hiring process enhances your reputation as an employer of choice.​Common Causes of Hiring Delays—And How to Fix Them1. Too Many Decision-MakersMany hiring delays stem from too many stakeholders needing to approve an offer. While it’s important to get buy-in, excessive layers of approval can slow things down.Consider: Streamlining your decision-making process by setting clear timelines and limiting the number of required approvals.​2. Unclear Budget or Salary ExpectationsSome companies hold off on making an offer while they re-evaluate salary budgets or wait for HR approvals. If this happens after you've already interviewed candidates, you risk losing them.Consider: Aligning internally on salary expectations before starting the hiring process so you can make a competitive offer immediately.​3. Poor Communication with CandidatesSilence after an interview leaves candidates in limbo—and more likely to accept another offer in the meantime. Even if approvals take time, lack of communication can create doubt and frustration.Consider: Keep candidates informed at every stage, even if there’s no major update. A quick email or call reassuring them they’re still in consideration can make a huge difference.​4. Slow Internal ProcessesLengthy background checks, unnecessary reference checks, or slow-moving HR departments can add weeks to a hiring timeline.Consider: Identify bottlenecks in your process and find ways to automate or speed them up where possible. If a reference check is essential, start it earlier in the process.​How to Speed Up the Hiring Process Without Sacrificing QualityPre-define salary bands & approval processes – This removes the need for last-minute internal negotiations.Set clear hiring timelines – Agree on deadlines for shortlisting, interviewing, and making an offer before you start the process.Maintain regular touchpoints with candidates – Keep them engaged so they don’t lose interest.Be ready to negotiate quickly – If a candidate requests adjustments, have decision-makers available to respond in real time.​Final ThoughtsTime kills deals—especially in hiring. A slow hiring process can lead to lost talent, higher costs, and damage to your professional brand. Companies known for efficiency and decisiveness are more attractive to top candidates, while those with sluggish hiring processes risk being seen as outdated and bureaucratic.By streamlining approvals, aligning on budgets early, and keeping communication open, you’ll not only secure top candidates faster but also enhance your reputation as a leading employer.​If you’re struggling to hire top talent before competitors snap them up, we can help. Reach out to the team at Parity Consulting to ensure your hiring process is as efficient as it is effective.​Read More:10 Ways Low Attrition is Killing Culture2024's Essential Guide to Attracting and Retaining Top TalentSalary Guide FY2024-25​Why Work With UsBusiness leaders need top-tier talentto exceed expectations and drive growth. At Parity, we swiftly attract and mobilisethe best candidates across Financial Services and Tech, ensuring they align with your culture, performance, and reputation.With years of earned trust, Parity specialises in unearthing those perfect truffles—candidates in Product, Transformation, Marketing, Communications, Digital, and Data, who will elevate your organisation while ensuring quality always trumps quantity.Our equitable and transparent placement process is trusted by clients and candidates alike.See how the Parity team can help your organisation succeed—Download our Capability Statement here!​

•  Eliza McGivern
•  19th Feb 2025

How to Change Industry: Insights from Cameron WebbChanging industries can feel like navigating uncharted waters. Cameron Webb, a seasoned executive, has made several successful transitions across diverse industries, each time bringing his expertise to new challenges. We sat down to speak with Cameron and he generously shared his personal experience, valuable lessons learned, and tips for those considering a career pivot.​1. It Takes Time to Change IndustryCameron’s journey of change didn’t happen overnight. Reflecting on his career, he explains that, at one point, he reached a stage where there simply wasn’t much room for further growth. He realised it was time for a change, but the path forward was unclear."I started with no idea on how to make that move," says Cameron. "I spent time researching and figuring out what my next steps should be. What role would I pursue? Who could help me? What skills would I need? And what would it feel like? All these questions required careful consideration."It wasn’t an easy transition. Cameron spent three years contemplating his next move, gradually building a plan for himself. He thought about the type of work he wanted, the environment he would thrive in, and the role that would challenge him."It took time," he admits, "but when I finally made the leap, it felt like the right decision. The new role reignited my passion, and I felt motivated again. Since then, I’ve become quicker at making decisions because I’ve learned what drives me. I know when it’s time to move."What Cameron learned during this process is the importance of staying motivated and challenged. For him, the key to job satisfaction lies in learning and growth. When the balance tips and he finds himself demotivated, he knows it’s time to reassess.​2. Don’t Assume You KnowOne of the most valuable lessons Cameron has learned in his industry transitions is the importance of staying open-minded. "It’s easy to assume you know things, especially when you come with a lot of experience. But each industry has its own nuances that might surprise you."When Cameron transitioned into manufacturing, he had to shift his mindset. Despite his strong background in retail and consulting, he quickly realised that he needed to be humble and willing to learn from others."I came in thinking I knew what to expect, but the reality was often different. There were experts around me who had been in the industry for years, and if I had listened more intently, I would have avoided some missteps," Cameron reflects. "It’s essential to be mindful and never assume things are the same just because they seem similar on the surface."For anyone considering a change, Cameron advises caution. While you might have valuable skills from your previous role, understanding the specific context of the new industry is critical to success.​3. Personal Development is CriticalCameron’s journey of career transformation isn’t just about switching industries. It’s also about continuous personal growth. He believes in constant learning and development to stay relevant and effective in any role."I’ve always focused on personal development," he says. "Early on, I did both an undergraduate and a postgraduate degree, which gave me a strong foundation for leadership and business. But later in my career, it’s been all about understanding myself—how to lead more effectively, how to handle challenges, and how to improve in the areas that matter most."Cameron credits this focus on self-awareness and improvement for his success in navigating different industries. He believes that being honest about your strengths and weaknesses—and actively working to improve—is crucial for anyone looking to transition or grow in their career."Personal development isn't just about learning new skills. It’s about knowing who you are, what you bring to the table, and where you can improve."​Key Takeaways from Cameron Webb's Career TransitionsPatience and Planning: Changing industries takes time. Cameron spent three years carefully researching, planning, and figuring out what type of role, environment, and work would motivate him. Once he made the decision, it reignited his passion for work.Stay Open-Minded: Don't assume that skills and knowledge from your previous industry automatically apply. Each industry has its own nuances, so it's important to be humble, listen to others, and be open to learning.Focus on Personal Development: Continuous learning and self-awareness are essential. Cameron prioritises understanding his strengths and areas for improvement, which has helped him navigate various roles successfully.Know What Drives You: For Cameron, the key to job satisfaction is feeling challenged and learning. When the balance is off, he knows it’s time to reassess and make a change.​Watch the Full Interview with Cameron & Learn MoreCameron’s approach to industry change is simple but profound: embrace the change, understand what drives you, and be open to the lessons each new experience brings. With these guiding principles, anyone can make a successful transition, regardless of the industry. The lessons learned along the way can not only help you succeed in your new role but also enrich your career as a whole.🎥 Watch the full video interviews here: Career Lifecycle Series - Career Transition Guide​Why Partner with Us?Business leaders need top-tier talent to exceed expectations and drive growth. At Parity, we swiftly attract and mobilise the best candidates across Financial Services and Tech, ensuring they align with your culture, performance, and reputation.With years of earned trust, Parity specialises in unearthing those perfect truffles—candidates in Product, Transformation, Marketing, Communications, Digital, and Data, who will elevate your organisation while ensuring quality always trumps quantity.Our equitable and transparent placement process is trusted by clients and candidates alike.​At Parity, we're committed to supporting both our clients and candidates. For a confidential discussion, don't hesitate to reach out to one of our consultants.

•  Eliza McGivern
•  19th Feb 2025

How to Successfully Transition Industries: Insights from Tina MorrellMaking a career change—especially into a new industry—can feel daunting. But for senior executives looking to pivot, the right mindset and strategy can make all the difference. We had the pleasure of interviewing Tina Morrell about her journey from telecommunications to financial services, uncovering key insights for anyone considering a similar move.Tina Morrell’s career is a testament to adaptability and impact across multiple industries and job families. She began in Telecommunications, mastering product management and development before making a strategic move into Financial Services, driven by a long-held ambition to contribute to the sector. Her journey didn’t stop there.She went on to apply her expertise in Membership, Transport, and Travel, focusing on Customer Value Propositions (CVP), Customer Strategy, Voice of Customer (VOC), Human-Centered Design (HCD), and Digital.With each transition, Tina quickly grasped the nuances of new industries, leveraging her deep product knowledge to drive immediate value.Known for delivering Transformational programs and leading change, Tina thrives on challenges and continuous learning. Her ability to navigate diverse sectors and create meaningful impact makes her a sought-after leader, ready to take on the next opportunity with confidence. Here are some of the lessons she learned along the way.​1. Leverage Your Network: Learn from Others Who’ve Done ItTina’s transition began when she saw another leader successfully change industries. Inspired, she reached out to him to understand his process. His advice? Speak to recruiters and clarify exactly what you want.Key Takeaways:Seek out mentors or peers who’ve successfully transitioned industries.Consult with recruiters to understand market opportunities.Be clear on your career goals before approaching external opportunities.​2. Stay Confident in Your Transferable SkillsOne of the biggest challenges in changing industries is overcoming self-doubt and proving your value. Tina recognised she wasn’t an expert in financial services, but she was an expert in product management, pricing, and driving growth—skills that could be applied across industries.Key Takeaways:Focus on what you bring to the table, not what you lack.Recruiters and hiring managers may focus on industry experience, but your functional expertise is just as important.Stay resilient—don’t let a few setbacks derail your confidence.​3. Take Strategic Risks to Get Where You WantTina faced a tough choice: take an external role in her current industry or step back in seniority to enter the industry she truly wanted. She chose the latter, trusting that her skills would help her progress quickly—and within two months, she was promoted back to her previous level.Key Takeaways:Sometimes a lateral or even lower move can be the right long-term choice.Be willing to take calculated risks to enter your desired field.Progression happens quickly when you prove your impact.​4. Be Excited About Your New IndustryExcitement is contagious. Tina emphasised that demonstrating enthusiasm about the industry shift was critical in winning over hiring managers. Her passion for learning new things and embracing challenges helped her stand out.Key Takeaways:Hiring managers want to know why you’re making the jump—show them your genuine interest.A growth mindset is key to thriving in a new industry.Every career move is an opportunity to expand your knowledge and skillset.​Watch the Full Interview with Tina & Learn MoreTransitioning industries isn’t just about finding the right role—it’s about positioning yourself for long-term success. Watch our full interview with Tina Morrell and others who’ve made the leap, and gain more insights into navigating a successful industry change.🎥 Watch the full video interviews here: Career Lifecycle Series - Career Transition Guide​Why Partner with Us?Business leaders need top-tier talent to exceed expectations and drive growth. At Parity, we swiftly attract and mobilise the best candidates across Financial Services and Tech, ensuring they align with your culture, performance, and reputation.With years of earned trust, Parity specialises in unearthing those perfect truffles—candidates in Product, Transformation, Marketing, Communications, Digital, and Data, who will elevate your organisation while ensuring quality always trumps quantity.Our equitable and transparent placement process is trusted by clients and candidates alike.​At Parity, we're committed to supporting both our clients and candidates. For a confidential discussion, don't hesitate to reach out to one of our consultants.