Why Hiring the Right Fit Matters More Than Ever

The Eric Stoltz Lesson – When a “Good Hire” Isn’t the Right One

In 1984, Universal Pictures began filming Back to the Future and everything looked perfect. The script was strong, the production team exceptional and the lead actor, Eric Stoltz, was talented, respected and fully committed. But after six weeks of filming, something felt off. The chemistry wasn’t there. The tone didn’t fit the story. Stoltz was good, just not right. His version of Marty McFly was serious and introspective, while the story needed warmth, humour and lightness.

So Universal made a difficult decision: replace him with Michael J. Fox. They reshot every single scene. It cost millions. The crew had to regroup, morale had to be rebuilt and the cast had to understand why change was necessary. Painful? Absolutely. But that decision turned a struggling film into a timeless success. Fox brought the spark, pace and charm that made Back to the Future an icon of modern cinema.

The Business of Casting the Right Talent

In business, the same principle applies. Every leader has faced it: a hire who looks perfect on paper, interviews well and ticks every box, yet something doesn’t quite fit. Maybe it’s the tone in leadership, the approach to collaboration or simply the energy they bring to the culture. They’re good — but not right. And while Hollywood can reshoot, most companies can’t. They push forward, hoping it will work out. But misalignment shows up quickly, in morale, performance and results.

Why Cultural Fit Matters in Leadership Hiring

Hiring isn’t only about identifying talent; it’s about finding alignment. The right person doesn’t just play their part, they elevate the entire team. That’s what separates good hires from great ones. Today, executive search is less about credentials and more about chemistry. The most effective leaders fit the organisation’s values, understand its story and bring out the best in others. Cultural fit, emotional intelligence and purpose now shape as much of a hiring decision as skills or experience.

The Lesson for Today’s Hiring Leaders

The Eric Stoltz lesson reminds us that even talented people can be the wrong fit and that decisive, early action often saves far more than it costs. Sometimes the most strategic decision a leader can make is to pause, realign and recast. Because when you find the right person, everything changes — the tone, the energy and the outcome.

Hiring isn’t about filling a position. It’s about casting the story your business wants to tell.

Partner with Hanson Search to Find the Right Fit

At Hanson Search, we partner with organisations worldwide to recruit leaders who bring the right chemistry, cultural fit and vision. If you’re looking to build a leadership team that fits your story, get in touch. Our executive search specialists help businesses hire smarter and stronger for long-term success. Whether you’re hiring top talent or considering your next career move, our team would be delighted to support you.

Nils Geradin is Principal Consultant at Hanson Search, specialising in commercial, sales, and marketing leadership roles across the US and Europe.

Hanson Search is a globally recognised, award-winning talent advisory and headhunting consultancy. Our expertise lies in building successful ventures worldwide through our recruitment, interim and executive search in communications, sustainability, public affairs and policy, digital marketing and sales.