What is Lateral Hiring?
Lateral Hiring is the process of recruiting professionals from outside the organisation into roles that are at a similar level of responsibility and seniority as their current or previous position. These hires bring directly relevant experience, skills and domain knowledge—enabling rapid contribution with minimal initial training.
Why Lateral Hiring Matters in HR
This hiring method is important for organisations that need to fill niche roles quickly, bridge skill gaps or inject fresh perspectives into their teams. By opting for lateral hires, HR can accelerate time-to-productivity, reduce training burdens and enhance competitive advantage. However, success depends not just on experience, but also on cultural fit and internal alignment.
How the Lateral Hiring Process Works
Key steps in an effective lateral hiring strategy include:
- Define the job clearly: Specify the level, responsibilities and unique skill-set required, so the role matches the candidate’s background.
- Target passive, experienced candidates: Use networking, industry contacts or head-hunting rather than mass job-advertising.
- Assess for fit and readiness: Evaluate whether the candidate’s prior role aligns with the new position and check their ability to integrate swiftly.
- Offer appropriately: Since lateral candidates often expect compensation aligned with their experience, structure the offer to reflect value and ensure internal equity.
- Onboard with nuance: Even though they are experienced, lateral hires benefit from structured onboarding to connect with culture, processes and team dynamics.
A thoughtful lateral hiring strategy ensures you bring in seasoned professionals who can hit the ground running—while still supporting their integration and alignment with your business. When executed well, this approach not only fills urgent gaps but also elevates team capability and fosters innovation across the organisation.
