Brutal Transparency: The Uncomfortable Edge That Makes Great Hires Happen

Let’s be real: most people say they want honest communication – until it gets uncomfortable.

In recruiting, discomfort is where progress lives. That’s why at recruitAbility, we don’t just talk about transparency. We practice Brutal Transparency – because saying the hard thing early often saves months of wasted time and misalignment.

Still, not everyone’s on board. Some candidates hold back concerns to “stay in the running.” Some hiring managers ghost instead of giving feedback. Most of the time, it’s not malice – it’s fear – fear of judgment, fear of hurting feelings, fear of not knowing how to say what needs to be said.

But here’s what we’ve learned:

 

Communication Wins the Search

 

Want smoother, faster, more successful hiring outcomes? Build them on transparency:

• Dig Deeper, Sooner: Don’t ask surface-level questions. Get specific. “What would make this a dealbreaker?” “What’s the real story behind why you left?” The clarity you gain now prevents surprises later.
• Create Safety by Going First: Candidates and clients follow your lead. When you’re direct and open, they mirror that.
• Normalize the Tough Talk: Missed expectations? Misalignment? Bring it up. Being candid doesn’t mean being harsh – it means being clear.
• Invite Feedback Without Ego: A quick “How’s this feeling on your end?” can surface gold. You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be willing to improve.

 

Why People Don’t Say What They Mean

 

Because it’s awkward. Because they don’t want to offend. Because they’ve had bad experiences.

Your job – our job – is to break that cycle.

The best recruiters aren’t just matchmakers. They’re translators, truth-tellers, and trust-builders. That starts with communication that’s brutally transparent – even when it’s uncomfortable.

 

If you’re a hiring manager or candidate reading this…

 

What’s the conversation you should be having, but aren’t?