A survey by recruiting firm Robert Walters Việt Nam found that 58 per cent of employers have hired employees based on their potential, and 94 per cent of them said their potential-based hires had become a valuable part of their teams. — Photo courtesy of the organiser

HCM CITY — Hiring employees based on their potential will be important in the new economy, according to an annual whitepaper report published by Robert Walters, an international recruiting firm.

The report was based on a survey of 3,500 professionals including 1,200 hiring managers from six Southeast Asian companies in the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Việt Nam.

The survey found that 58 per cent of employers had hired based on potential, and 94 per cent of them said their potential-based hires had become a valuable part of their teams.

Adrien Bizouard, country manager of Robert Walters Việt Nam, said: “High potential candidates are typically someone whose job descriptions and CVs sometimes don't match. But the person can do the job and can be successful in the job.”

“Hiring based on potential is highlighting an opportunity for employers and employees to learn from each other,” he said, adding that hiring would help employers save time and money.

More than 89 per cent of companies in Việt Nam take more than a month to find a candidate who is a close fit for the job description and salary. But 40 per cent of those hires do not work out, and most employees take a month to a year to leave the role due to mismatch in culture, attitude and ethics.

The survey found that 55 per cent of candidates with potential said they valued learning and growth opportunities more than salaries.

Linh Phạm, manager of Legal & HR services at Robert Walters Việt Nam, said: “High potential employees typically demonstrate more grit, loyalty and enthusiasm for having been given the opportunity.”

“The challenge of the unknown and the excitement of acquiring new skills keep them motivated and engaged and help retain them for longer,” she added.

While relevant experience is perceived to be a top priority, the ability to deliver satisfactory work, display a good work attitude and adapt to company culture are increasingly being valued in the workplace, according to the report. — VNS