Hearing and listening are often used interchangeably, but they are very different skills - especially in recruitment. Hearing is the passive act of perceiving sound; it is simply noticing that someone is speaking. Listening, however, is active and intentional. It involves fully concentrating on what is being said, understanding the meaning, interpreting tone and context, and responding thoughtfully. Crucially, it also means paying attention to what is not being said and probing gently around those areas to gain deeper insights.
When hiring, listening is essential. Taking on new staff is a significant decision, and interviews are an opportunity to understand a candidate’s skills, motivations, and cultural fit. Hearing their words is not enough; listening allows hiring managers to pick up on subtleties, gaps, or unspoken concerns and ask meaningful follow-up questions that reveal the full picture.
Sheridan Maine knows that active listening—both to what is said and unsaid—ensures the right match between candidate and employer. It allows recruiters and hiring managers to make informed, evidence-based decisions, uncover hidden potential, and assess authenticity beyond surface impressions.
Ultimately, listening in recruitment is about more than gathering information. It builds trust, encourages open dialogue, and ensures hiring decisions are thoughtful and well-aligned. Hearing tells you what is said; listening tells you what it really means.
