How MedTech Can Fix Hiring with Culture and Candidate Focus
At the LSX World Congress in Boston, MedTech Spotlight Live by Orthogonal featured conversations with leaders shaping the future of healthcare technology. Orthogonal’s Randy Horton spoke with Darwin Shurig , Founder of Top Talent Accelerant, Inc. , about how his company is transforming both the candidate and hiring manager experience. From fixing broken job descriptions to using video and cultural assessments for real-time insights, Darwin shared how his process helps companies hire smarter and retain talent longer.
Rebuilding the Candidate Experience
Job descriptions are often generic or inaccurate, leaving candidates uncertain about what a role really entails. Top Talent Accelerant provides branded portals with information on the company, role, and hiring manager. Candidates see more than just a description; they receive context that helps them decide if the role is a good fit.
Results That Stand Out
Over a decade, Top Talent Accelerant has averaged a 94% offer acceptance rate. More than half of placed candidates have been promoted within 24 months, and retention is one-third higher than industry averages.
Hiring Manager Efficiency
Instead of just resumes, hiring managers receive videos, written responses, and insights into cultural fit. This reduces wasted interviews. Darwin estimates 70-80% of interviews today involve candidates who should never have been advanced.
MedTech Market Conditions
The past two to three years have brought layoffs, failed trials, and tighter capital, resulting in a flood of talent on the market. Darwin notes recent signs of recovery, with funding and job opportunities beginning to reopen, and is optimistic about the months ahead.
Culture vs. Skills
Darwin cites research showing that 89% of mis-hires occur due to low emotional intelligence or a poor cultural fit, rather than a lack of technical skills. A strong culture and alignment with the mission and vision are essential to avoid costly turnover.
AI’s Role in Hiring
Some companies have begun using AI robots for first-round interviews, which can create frustration for candidates. Darwin cautions that over-automation strips away humanity and damages employer value. Technology should support, not replace, human relationships.
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