In tennis, doubles is not simply the sum of two players. It is a dynamic balance built on instant reading of the game, complementary movement, and total trust. The same applies to recruitment processes: the best results emerge from this very harmony, with recruiters and hiring managers acting as allies on the court, able to read candidates’ moves, anticipate trajectories, and turn every exchange into a competitive advantage.
The serve: a clear and strategic start
In tennis, the serve sets the tone for the rally. In recruiting, the “opening shot” is the job description: a precise definition not only of technical requirements, but also of the role’s strategic value, key projects, and objectives.
For this to work, the hiring manager must share accurate and meaningful information, while the recruiter must be able to interpret it and translate it into a clear, credible, and compelling message for the market.
When role analysis, context, and expectations are fully aligned, the effect is an ace: the process starts with a real advantage, and the most suitable profiles are identified from the outset.
Court coverage: distinct roles, a shared objective
In doubles, each player covers a different area of the court while constantly reading their partner’s movements. The same dynamic applies to recruitment. The recruiter explores the market, evaluates soft skills, and monitors the pipeline; the hiring manager goes deeper into technical competencies, cultural fit, and operational needs.
If even one of the two moves too late, the ball “drops through the middle”: promising candidates are missed, timelines extend, and expectations drift out of alignment.
When coverage is balanced, however, the process flows smoothly. Those at the baseline and those at the net work as a single unit.
Rhythm: communicating without breaking the flow
A winning doubles team can be recognised by its rhythm: fast exchanges, continuous adjustment, shared decisions. In recruiting, this rhythm is built on timely updates, rapid feedback, and clarification at the right moment.
A recruiter who identifies a high-potential candidate must signal this immediately to the hiring manager. Likewise, a manager who spots a technical gap should raise it promptly, allowing the recruiter to recalibrate subsequent screenings and interviews.
This fluid communication avoids overlap, delays, and misunderstandings. It keeps the “game” alive.
Decision alignment: coordinating at critical moments
In a tie-break, even the smallest gesture can change the outcome of a rally. In recruitment, critical moments arise during shortlisting: when several candidates are strong, when subtle differences need to be weighed, and when a fast yet informed decision is required.
This is when recruiters and hiring managers must be perfectly aligned to win the decisive point together: selecting the right talent without hesitation. A shared language is essential, based on timely feedback, common evaluation criteria, and open, transparent discussion.
Match point: turning alignment into results
As in a well-played doubles match, success in recruiting rests on three fundamentals: coordination, trust, and communication. When each party understands their role, knows when to step in, and can read their partner, the process becomes fluid and effective.
The result is a thoughtful, timely decision aligned with the organisation’s objectives: a match point converted, and a new talent joining the team at the right moment and in the right way.
Ultimately, in recruiting as in doubles tennis, talent is truly won when alignment becomes strategy. It is not the single shot that makes the difference, but the ability to play every point with a shared vision.
