Move Like They’re the Only Candidate in the World

In today’s market, good talent isn’t waiting around.

They’re being pursued by every hiring team under the sun. So when you find someone who fits, you have to act like they’re the only candidate in the world.

I tell my clients all the time: you get 24 to 48 hours max to review resumes, talk with your team, and decide whether it’s a good fit.

Because once two days pass, analysis paralysis sets in. Managers start talking to themselves, second-guessing, wondering:

“Is this person really the right technical fit?

Meanwhile, the recruiter, the candidate, and the market are all moving forward.

In that moment, communication is everything.

When we find a strong candidate, we have to move with urgency and intent. That’s how you keep candidates engaged, build trust, and keep momentum alive. The goal is simple:

If it’s a yes, move them through the process.
If it’s a no, cut ties and keep moving.

Either way, progress is made.

Don’t Fall for the “Holiday Slowdown” Myth

Yes, we’re nearing the end of the year. Budgets shift, schedules tighten, but companies are still hiring.

In fact, many are trying to close open roles before the year ends. That means the rule of urgency matters now more than ever.

Think of it like dating: if you meet someone great, you don’t wait two weeks to call. You make your intent clear. Recruiting is the same, quick communication, clear intent, decisive action.

When you wait too long:

You risk losing a strong candidate to a competitor.
You create uncertainty and disengagement.
You risk damaging your relationship with the recruiter working hard for you.

But when you act decisively:

You keep momentum.
You build trust.
You win the candidate, and win faster for your team.

The 48-Hour Rule: A Commitment to Momentum

When I partner with clients, I ask for one simple commitment: When you see someone who fits, act within 48 hours.

Let’s move with the mindset that this is the one. If they aren’t, no problem, we move on and keep the process flowing.

That rhythm keeps you ahead of the market.

8 Reasons Why Moving With Speed and Intent Matters

Stronger candidate experience – Candidates feel valued, and the process reflects well on your brand.
Higher success rate – Moving fast leaves less room for doubt and drop-off.
Reduced risk of losing top talent – You’re acting while the candidate is still engaged.
Better recruiter alignment – Shared momentum builds trust and transparency.
Lower cost of vacancy – Every day a role sits open costs your business.
Faster, clearer decision-making – The 48-hour rule forces clarity.
Stronger partnerships – Fast feedback strengthens recruiter relationships.
End-of-year advantage – Close great hires before budgets reset and competitors wake up.

When you partner with me and my team recruitAbility , you don’t just get access to top-tier engineering talent; you get a process designed to get results.

Because in hiring, speed with intent wins every time.

And results are the ultimate goal.