Switching Sectors: Why Candidates From Other Industries Could Be Your Best Hires

As businesses navigate an unpredictable economic landscape, talent shortages and evolving workforce expectations continue to challenge even the most experienced hiring managers. But in the race to find the “perfect fit,” many companies are overlooking a major source of untapped potential: candidates from other industries.

Hiring outside your sector isn’t just a backup plan - it’s a strategic move that could give your team the competitive edge it needs.

The Case for Cross-Industry Talent

Market trends are showing that skills-based hiring is rapidly replacing traditional, experience-first models. According to Deloitte, 63% of high-growth companies have already shifted toward hiring based on potential and transferable skills rather than linear career paths.

At the same time, professionals are rethinking their careers. VERSA’s platform data shows a growing number of flexible job seekers are actively pursuing roles in new sectors - bringing with them fresh perspectives, diverse experience, and a readiness to learn.

So why are many hiring teams still stuck filtering out great candidates simply because they “haven’t done this exact job before”?

Why It Works: The Cross-Sector Advantage

Fresh Thinking
Candidates from outside your industry aren’t bound by the “we’ve always done it this way” mindset. They bring new approaches, creative problem-solving and a willingness to question assumptions.

Transferable Skills, Proven Impact
Project management, stakeholder engagement, leadership, data analysis, customer insight -these are sector-agnostic skills that can make a huge impact across industries.

Faster Learning, Greater Adaptability
Professionals who switch sectors tend to be resilient, curious and fast learners. They’re used to navigating change and picking up new tools, systems and languages quickly.

Culture Add, Not Just Culture Fit
Hiring from a narrow pool risks creating homogenous teams. Cross-industry hires often bring diverse perspectives that drive innovation, inclusivity and long-term growth.

Redefining the “Right Fit”

Rather than hiring based on job titles or sector familiarity, forward-thinking hiring managers are now asking:

• Can this person solve the problems we’re facing right now?
• Do they bring skills, mindset and values that align with our goals?
• Could their background offer us a competitive advantage?

The best hires aren’t always the obvious ones. Sometimes, the right person for the role is coming from a different industry - and bringing everything your team didn’t know it needed.

VERSA: Where Skills Meet Opportunity

At VERSA, we champion skills-first, flexible hiring - helping companies access exceptional talent from a wide range of industries. Our AI-powered platform connects you with professionals who are ready to make an impact, whether they’re coming from your sector or bringing something entirely new to the table.

If you’re open to bold hiring decisions and big results, we’re here to help.

Sign up to VERSA today and discover flexible talent that thinks outside the box - and beyond your industry.