Success in today’s job market takes more than just a polished resume—it requires authenticity, adaptability, and alignment with a company’s mission. We spoke with Carlee Hoese, a Senior Search Consultant at CSS ProSearch, to unpack what truly sets top candidates apart and how companies can hire with long-term impact in mind. With a strong focus on cultural fit and growth potential, Carlee shares practical insights on standing out, navigating a shifting hiring landscape, and the fulfillment that comes from making the right match.
From your perspective, what are the top three traits of a successful candidate in today’s job market?
Carlee: I would say the top three traits are effective communication/active listening, adaptability, and a strong drive for results (top performer).
How have you seen the hiring landscape evolve in the past year, and what should companies and candidates expect moving forward?
Carlee: In my experience, the biggest change over the past year has been how much more companies care about culture-based hiring. It’s not enough anymore to just have the right skills; candidates need to genuinely align with a company’s values and show they can grow long term. Looking ahead, I believe the companies that succeed will be the ones that hire people who can adapt and evolve with the business, and help build a strong, collaborative culture, not just fill a job description. From a candidate’s perspective, it’s crucial to demonstrate how you can contribute to a company’s mission and grow alongside it, rather than just ticking boxes.
What’s a key strategy to stand out in a competitive job market?
Carlee: One big way to stand out is to show you’ve done your homework. Don’t just send the same resume to every company – take the time to tailor it for each role, highlight the skills that matter most, and show why you’re excited about that specific company. A little extra effort goes a long way! Also, don’t be afraid to network; reaching out on LinkedIn or showing up at industry events can help you build real connections that open doors.
What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve ever received, and how has it shaped your approach to recruiting?
Carlee: The best advice I’ve ever received is: “Don’t just hire for the role, hire for the culture.” Skills can be taught, but values, attitude, and how someone contributes to a team’s dynamic are harder to change. That has shaped my approach to recruiting by helping me focus not just on what a candidate can do, but how they’ll add to the company culture and grow with the team over time.
What do you enjoy the most about matching candidates with the right roles, and what do you find most rewarding about your work?
Carlee: What I enjoy most is helping candidates find roles where they’re not only qualified but genuinely excited and able to grow. It’s incredibly rewarding to see someone thrive in a position that suits them well. Knowing I played a part in connecting the right person with the right opportunity and hearing about their success afterward is what makes this work so fulfilling.
The hiring landscape is constantly evolving, and staying ahead requires the right strategy—and the right partners. Whether you’re looking to build a strong recruitment strategy, streamline your hiring process, or secure top talent in a competitive market, CSS ProSearch is here to help.
Our team of expert recruiters understands the unique challenges of today’s job market and is dedicated to connecting top-tier candidates with companies that value long-term success.
Ready to elevate your hiring strategy? Contact CSS ProSearch today to see how we can help you build a stronger, more effective workforce.