Hiring Smarter: Two Pillars That Make the Difference

 

Hiring isn’t just about filling a role. It’s about choosing who gets to influence the team, shape the culture, and either reduce complexity or add to it. A resume may show skills, but the right hire shows signs of ownership, simplicity, and sound judgment.

In the Paint It Red Philosophy there are two pillars stand out when it comes to hiring decisions: The Rake Theory and The Five Closest People.

Pillar 2: The Rake Theory

Some people unintentionally create problems that slow down progress. They overthink simple tasks, avoid responsibility, or introduce unnecessary steps. These are self-made obstacles or “rakes.” And once they’re dropped in the middle of a process, someone’s going to step on them.

When hiring, it’s critical to spot these behaviors early. Ask questions that reveal how a candidate handles failure or pressure. Listen for signs of accountability. If someone always has an excuse or a vague explanation for past setbacks, that’s a sign they may carry rakes into your workplace.

Pillar 4: The Five Closest People

Every hire changes the team dynamic. Their mindset, habits, and attitude will influence the people around them. Over time, that influence compounds. Good habits spread. So do bad ones.

That’s why every hiring decision should include one key question: Would I want this person’s behavior and mindset shaping the rest of my team?

The right hire pushes others to be better, often without trying. They model consistency, directness, and steady effort. The wrong hire can drag others down, stir up drama, or simply lower the standard of what’s acceptable.

Watch how the candidate interacts with others throughout the hiring process. Are they respectful, prepared, and focused? Do they listen? These details matter more than buzzwords on a résumé.

Make the Hire That Moves Things Forward

It’s easy to get distracted by credentials, experience, or how someone interviews on their best day. But the best hiring decisions are based on something simpler: Do they create momentum or friction?

Use these two pillars as your filter.

Ask:

• Do they avoid rakes or leave them for others to deal with?
• Would I want five more people like this on my team?

If you hesitate on either question, keep looking.

Better hires lead to fewer complications. And fewer complications lead to better results.

Chris Ortiz. Author of the upcoming book. Same Problems, Same Opportunities: Why Leadership Still Matters