Insights

For many years, “culture fit” was held up as the gold standard of hiring. Leaders wanted people who would blend seamlessly into existing teams, maintain harmony, and keep things running smoothly.
But in 2026, that thinking is increasingly seen as a liability - particularly in small-to-mid-sized organisations where every hire meaningfully shapes the organisation’s future. Boards are asking harder questions about culture, leadership performance, and talent ROI. And HR leaders are recognising that protecting the status quo isn’t enough.