Andy Layman’s Post

Chemistry. It’s a word we kept hearing over and over when speaking to stakeholders about why their new hires weren’t staying. Not “skills,” not “performance,” but chemistry. It turns out, this intangible thing—chemistry—was the reason why new team members felt disconnected and eventually walked away. While they had the right qualifications, they lacked that deeper connection with their team. In a business setting, "chemistry" is more than just getting along. It’s the alignment of personalities, values, and communication styles. It’s how people naturally collaborate and trust each other to get the job done. A lack of chemistry leads to friction, misunderstandings, and ultimately disengagement. Even the most talented individual will struggle to succeed if they feel out of place in their team. And as we learned, that’s exactly what had been happening. To hire the right person, we can’t just focus on the job description or skills. We need to consider how this person will integrate into the team’s unique dynamic. How do their behaviours, working style, and values fit with the rest of the group? ✅Take time to assess team dynamics. ✅Understand what makes the team click beyond just KPIs. ✅Look at new hires through the lens of chemistry, not just competencies. How to assess team fit? Recruitment #RecruitmentStrategy #Retention #WeAreHiring #Three60

🚫 Don't hire for "culture fit." Don't hire for "culture add." That's the wrong conversation to have. Ultimately, teams need to hire great people who will do great work together. *Together*, being the most important part. To achieve 1+1=3 effects, teams need great chemistry. 🟢 Chemistry is what people remember about their favorite jobs: How they worked so well with their manager & their teammates. 🟢 Chemistry thrives on different ideas. In an echo chamber of sameness, there is no chemistry. 🟢 Chemistry is completely pragmatic; it goes beyond the company's definition of culture. 🟢 Chemistry is what makes teams greater than the sum of its parts. 🟢 Chemistry is what transcendent teams have that others don't. Defining an entire "company culture" can be nebulous and frivolous. Seeking to create chemistry on a team level is perhaps the best thing a hiring manager can do. #hiring #recruiting #talent

Chemistry vs expertise: what’s more important in a team? According to this article, it’s “the vibe is that drives team success. Always.” For the most part, I’d agree with that HOWEVER... ...in the #AutomotiveIndustry, for many roles, technical knowledge is essential. Manufacturing processes, design, materials science, programming, mechanical and electronic engineering are all disciplines that require deep knowledge. Beyond that, for sure, it’s the human connection and a willingness to actively participate in the growth and success of the team that drive change. We’ve had some challenges over the last 18 months. Much of our success in transforming the business has been down to the trust, mutual respect, collaboration and collective effort outlined here as defining ‘good chemistry.’ That chemistry doesn’t happen just because the ‘right’ people are in the same room (virtual or otherwise). It develops over time as the different elements/people bind, blend and grow. As a leader, it’s exciting to influence that process, guided not always by what is on resumes but sometimes by a gut feeling about: 🎇 Who will be a catalyst to spark ideas? 🎇 Who will be a stabilizer to ground us? 🎇 Who could be a binding agent to connect ideas? The article ends with a suggestion to hire based on chemistry which will result in a redesign of the interview process. Of course, we can always improve but Henkel already does a great job of spotting talent and potential, in part because we place a lot of emphasis on doing what is suggested here: actively searching for people who align with our #culture. At Henkel, we all share a passion for chemistry, and I'm always looking at new ways our team can achieve even greater success so I enjoyed reading this – it definitely sparked some ideas! How important do you think team chemistry is? Is it more important than expertise? #TalentManagement #ChangeManagement #BusinessTransformation #Leadership https://ow.ly/WMRX50RTU3V

To all of my friends who have recently joined the ranks of "I used to work there"—you're not alone. Many of us are still in the same boat. Here are a few lessons that have helped me and might help you move forward to your next chapter a bit sooner. Some were learned the hard way, so take what resonates and jumpstart your journey. 1. First Impressions Count: Clear your headspace before diving back in. By the time you’re on your second or third application at the same company, they’ve formed an opinion of you. Start strong. 2. Separate Your Job Hunt: Create a dedicated email account for job applications. Keeping job search and personal life separate lets you focus on opportunities when you're in the right mindset. 3. Stay Organized: Track your applications in a spreadsheet—include resume versions, contacts, notes, next steps, etc. This keeps your job search structured and on track. 4. Get Expert Help: From resume writing to networking, branding, and media outreach—invest in professionals. You’re the product now, and like any good product, a solid launch plan and the right support make all the difference. 5. Leverage AI: Just as companies are using advanced AI tools to evaluate applications, you can use similar tools to ensure your visibility. This goes beyond keywords; AI is transforming the process. Utilize these tools to your advantage. 6. Use Social Media: Social media is an essential tool to tell your professional story. Keep personal and professional content separate, and remember: your online presence is part of your messaging. 7. Treat It Like a Full-Time Job: Searching for a job requires focus, structure, and dedication. Commit time daily, just as you would to a regular role. 8. Network, Network, Network: For introverts, this can be daunting, but 80% of senior roles aren’t even posted (or so they say). Get out there, meet people, and continue to foster those connections. 9. Handle Ageism Strategically: Ageism is real. Often, it’s cloaked in phrases like “too experienced” or “overqualified.” Find a balance between showcasing your skills and demonstrating your continued adaptability and value. 10. Practice Interviewing: Striking the right tone between sounding natural and prepared takes practice. Have stories ready that showcase your achievements in a structured way: situation, action, result. 11. Build Tools to Tell Your Story: A personal website, networking cards, LinkedIn business cards—these all help present you as more than just a resume. You’re marketing a product: you. As I always say, wisdom is that thing you get right after you need it. I’m still learning and adapting, and I hope some of these tips resonate. Reach out with your own stories, lessons, or even just to say hi. The ex-Hasbro community is here for you. Kevin Dakan kevindakan.com

R&D engineering roles are in high demand, yet competition for these positions is tougher than ever. In a recent chat, a Director R&D was floored by the number of applicants for their opening. Yet so few were actually qualified. Many companies are actively seeking candidates but need skills and hands-on experience. However, with the push for innovation, the bar continues to rise for qualified talent. So, in a field where many are eager to stand out, what truly makes the difference? How have you positioned yourself so far to rise above in a crowded hiring process?

From the conversations I've had recently with my clients, I've noticed some key skills which are in demand at the moment.   ⚡ If you're an engineer looking to break into the battery industry, keep these in mind to increase your chances for success:   🔋 Join industry groups and attend virtual seminars or conferences, employers love to see someone who has a genuine interest in the space! 📈 Stay informed on industry trends, bring these up in conversations with hiring managers. Employers value candidates who not only have technical skills but also understand the broader context in which they operate. Stephanos Savva's Watt's Current is a personal favourite! 📖 Pursue certifications or additional training to demonstrate that you’re committed to staying ahead of the curve. For example, Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing for process and manufacturing engineers. 🤝 Team dynamics and communication are very important. Teamwork is also key part of your day to day as an engineer, so have some experiences from past projects which illustrate how you work well with others. 🖋 Tailor your resume to showcase only the most relevant skills which align directly to the JD, highlight specific projects and research where you have made a large impact. 🌐 Create a polished LinkedIn profile with a strong headline and a detailed summary, and a list of your skills, certifications, and publications. Share articles or write posts about developments in the battery industry to demonstrate your expertise. This will allow you to make a positive impression before that initial conversation. ⚗ Next generation technologies are going to be the norm soon, so hands on experience with Sodium-ion, Lithium Metal and All Solid-State Batteries will be extremely important in the coming years. 👨💻 With the rise of AI and software dependence, Battery Modeling and BMS knowledge is valuable to any employer and will continue to rise in demand as time goes on! 💡 Connect with mentors or peers to share insights, to find out how you can get ahead of the curve.   As a recruiter in the battery engineering space, I’m always keen to support those growing their expertise. Let’s connect! #BatteryEngineering #CareerDevelopment #Hiring

Technical Knowledge is being replaced, you need to focus on finding Problem Solvers! Time companies got better at interviewing for it. Ok so it may be a little premature because we are still asked by our clients for technical knowledge. It can't be denied though that technical skills are changing faster than ever and many routine tasks will soon be delivered by AI tools (look at Development as an example.) So future value will be found in an engineers skills as: ➡️ A problem solver ➡️ A creative thinker ➡️ A systems understanding If the required skills are changing then the interview approach need to evolve but it is never easy to change embedded habits. Does your interview process incorporate the following? Review Previous Work - Evaluate portfolios, case studies, or project documentation to understand candidates' problem-solving approaches, creativity, and collaboration. Ask Behavioural and Scenario Questions - Use questions about past challenges and hypothetical scenarios to gauge how candidates tackle problems and adapt to real-world situations. Practical Assessments - Test troubleshooting, optimisation, or system design skills through tailored exercises, live problem-solving sessions, or paired tasks. Evaluate Soft Skills - Assess communication, teamwork, and willingness to learn through situational questions and cultural fit discussions. Collaborative Exercises How about - Pair candidates with team members to observe their ability to collaborate, communicate, and adapt in a team environment. It doesn't stop there though, the high achieving companies are improving how they retain their talent, continuously upskill and create a culture of curiosity...but that is for another day Are you reviewing your hiring strategies? When was the last time your interview process was shaken up? Do you fall into the camp of "It has always worked for me before so why change?" can this really still be the case?

🔍 What do Manufacturing / Engineering clients really want in a candidate? From what I've seen, clients are looking for a mix of technical know-how and those important soft skills. Sure, being technically skilled is a must, but what really makes a candidate shine is their knack for communicating well and being a team player. These people skills can turn a good hire into an amazing one. Adaptability is also super important these days. With the workplace moving so fast, clients love candidates who can quickly switch gears and welcome change. This trait helps tackle unexpected challenges and jump on new opportunities. Being adaptable shows you're ready to learn and grow—something everyone values. And of course, having a strong work ethic and being reliable are absolute must-haves. Clients want to count on their team members to consistently deliver great work. This builds trust and creates a positive work environment, which is key for long-term success. What qualities do you think matter most in a candidate? I'm excited to hear your thoughts! 💬 #CareerDevelopment #JobHunt #ProfessionalGrowth

🔍 What do Manufacturing / Engineering clients really want in a candidate? From what I've seen, clients are looking for a mix of technical know-how and those important soft skills. Sure, being technically skilled is a must, but what really makes a candidate shine is their knack for communicating well and being a team player. These people skills can turn a good hire into an amazing one. Adaptability is also super important these days. With the workplace moving so fast, clients love candidates who can quickly switch gears and welcome change. This trait helps tackle unexpected challenges and jump on new opportunities. Being adaptable shows you're ready to learn and grow—something everyone values. And of course, having a strong work ethic and being reliable are absolute must-haves. Clients want to count on their team members to consistently deliver great work. This builds trust and creates a positive work environment, which is key for long-term success. What qualities do you think matter most in a candidate? I'm excited to hear your thoughts! 💬 #CareerDevelopment #JobHunt #ProfessionalGrowth

In the corporate world, hard work alone is not enough to achieve success. While diligence is important, swift communication, work validation, and proper documentation play a crucial role in career growth and organizational efficiency. Effective communication ensures that tasks move forward without unnecessary delays, reduces misunderstandings, and keeps workflow efficient. Work validation, through feedback and approval, enhances credibility and ensures quality, preventing costly errors. Without validation, even the best efforts may go unnoticed or require rework. Proper documentation further strengthens workplace efficiency by maintaining transparency, accountability, and continuity. It serves as a reference for decision-making, ensures compliance with company policies, and helps prevent misunderstandings. In industries like healthcare and biomedical engineering, where precision is critical, maintaining clear records is essential for regulatory compliance and patient safety. Success in the corporate world requires a combination of hard work and smart work, where communication, validation, and documentation drive long-term career growth and organizational impact. #HappyWeekend