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Lessons From Failed Placements: How to Avoid the Trap

Hiring a top-tier executive is a big win until it’s not. One failed placement can cost a company millions, destabilize teams, and harm culture. At Hathaway Worldwide, we’ve studied the patterns behind these failures and how to prevent them.

The 3 Biggest Red Flags in Executive Hiring

  1. Cultural Misalignment – Skills alone don’t guarantee success.
  2. Overpromising in Interviews – Charm isn’t a strategy.
  3. Lack of Stakeholder Buy-In – A leader can’t lead without support.

What Successful Companies Do Differently
We go far beyond CVs and interviews. Our multi-layer vetting process, which includes deep psychometric assessments, 360-degree reference checks, and team fit mapping, helps companies hire for longevity, not just speed.

“What Top Candidates Think About Your Company (But Won’t Say)”.
McKinsey’s report on executive attrition.

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