Hiring Squirrels for Success: Leadership Lessons from Peter Cundhill

At Don't Wait, Lead Now, we believe leadership is about making smart, strategic decisions that set your team up for success. One of the most critical decisions a leader makes is who to bring onto their team. As Peter Cundhill wisely said, “You can teach a donkey to climb a tree, but it's easier to hire a squirrel.” This simple yet profound quote holds a powerful lesson for leaders: focus on finding the right talent rather than forcing a poor fit.

The Power of Natural Fit

Cundhill’s metaphor highlights a truth every leader should embrace: people thrive when their natural abilities align with the demands of their role. A donkey may be strong and reliable, but it’s not built for climbing trees. A squirrel, on the other hand, scampers up branches effortlessly. In leadership, this translates to hiring individuals whose skills, passions, and instincts match the job at hand.  Think of this as a “Strengths based” approach. 

Too often, leaders fall into the trap of trying to mold someone into a role they’re not suited for. This approach wastes time, drains resources, and frustrates both the employee and the team. Instead, great leaders prioritize identifying and recruiting “squirrels”—people who are naturally equipped to excel in their positions.

Why Hiring the Right Talent Matters

1. Efficiency and Productivity: When you hire someone whose strengths align with their role, they hit the ground running. They require less training and adapt quickly, boosting team performance.

2. Team Morale: Employees who feel competent and confident in their work are more engaged and motivated. This creates a positive ripple effect across the organization.

3. Innovation and Growth: Talented individuals who are in their element are more likely to bring creativity and fresh ideas, driving your team toward new heights.

How to Hire Your Squirrels

So, how do you ensure you’re hiring squirrels instead of donkeys? Here are a few practical steps:

• Define the Role Clearly: Before posting a job, outline the specific skills, traits, and outcomes you need. What does success in this role look like? This clarity helps you spot the right fit from the start.

• Look Beyond the Resume: Skills can be taught, but natural aptitude and passion cannot. During interviews, ask questions that reveal a candidate’s instincts and enthusiasm for the work.  I love to ask, “Do you consider yourself lucky?”   Let that sink in and see how they respond.  I love being surrounded by optimists. 

• Test for Fit: Use real-world scenarios or tasks to see how candidates perform. A squirrel will climb the tree with ease; a donkey will struggle, no matter how hard they try.

• Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off about a candidate, don’t ignore it. A good cultural and skill fit is critical for long-term success.

Leading with Intention

Cundhill’s quote isn’t just about hiring—it’s about intentional leadership. Great leaders don’t just fill seats; they build teams that soar. By focusing on finding the right talent, you create a culture where people thrive, goals are met, and success becomes second nature.

At Don’t Wait, Lead Now, we’re all about taking action today to build a better tomorrow. So, the next time you’re hiring, ask yourself: Am I teaching a donkey to climb, or am I hiring a squirrel?  Choose wisely, and watch your team climb to new heights.

Ready to lead with purpose? Visit www.dontwaitleadnow.com for more insights on building strong teams and driving results.  You can also find us at Medium and Substack