One of the biggest myths still clinging to workplace culture is the idea that productivity equals desk time – a mindset Ryan is determined to flip. He’s seen firsthand how flexibility helps businesses hit their goals when it comes to hiring.
In a tight market, flexible roles give smaller businesses a competitive edge, helping them attract talent they might otherwise miss, like working parents. Ryan believes flexibility is a powerful talent magnet that’s here to stay. The current challenge is that many business owners are still clinging to outdated ideas about what ‘productive’ looks like.
‘If you present me with two options – one’s a highly efficient parent with great tech skills who needs to leave for school pickup at 3:15, and the other’s someone filling their day with fluff – I know who I’m hiring.’
His message to employers is clear: when everyone else zigs, you zag. Offering flexibility isn’t just inclusive — it’s a smart strategic move.
Diversity is a competitive advantage
Too often, businesses hire people they’d ‘go to the pub with’. But that sameness can hurt your business goals in the long run. Ryan suggests that the best-performing teams are a mix of styles, backgrounds and experiences, all working together.
Sometimes businesses try to hire all-star players. You need different ingredients, a mix of young, old, introvert, extrovert, to really win.
It’s also not just about skill sets – it’s about empathy, communication and the emotional glue that keeps teams strong.
Final thoughts
The future of recruitment is clear: focus less on ticking boxes and more on who can grow, adapt and bring purpose.
Or, as Ryan puts it: ‘Be open-minded. Be flexible. And stop looking for the finished article.’