Breathe Quote by William Standish Knowles
“In those days industry would hire any chemist that could breathe.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Nobel Lecture, 2001
Industries often prioritize hiring over deep expertise, valuing basic capability over specialized knowledge.
In simple terms: Companies hire anyone who can do the job.
Seek depth over breadth in hiring.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- recruitment
- career planning
- training programs
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Should hiring focus on potential or credentials?
- How to balance skill and expertise?
Overemphasis on basic skills may overlook true talent.