In the world of recruiting , the term “purple squirrel” isn’t a wildlife reference but a metaphorical expression for an exceptionally rare and uniquely qualified candidate . Imagine finding an individual with the precise set of skills, experience, and qualifications sought by an employer – it’s as challenging as spotting a purple squirrel in the wild. When recruiters use the term “purple squirrel,” they’re emphasizing the extraordinary nature of the sought-after candidate. This goes beyond a standard job applicant; it refers to someone who meets job qualifications and possesses additional, often exceptional, attributes that make them a perfect fit for the role. What Is The Purple Squirrel Theory? The purple squirrel theory challenges traditional hiring norms by suggesting that organizations may set overly stringent criteria for their ideal candidate. This theory encourages employers to reconsider expectations and focus on essential skills, fostering a more realistic and efficient...

Despite the rain and thunderstorm Tuesday evening on May 15, more than 50 people gathered over dinner and drinks at Bibiana restaurant in Washington, D.C. to learn about diversity and job opportunities at Bank of America. Bank of America partnered with AfroTech for the recruiting event to discover black talent in tech. Guests were provided the chance to learn about Bank of America’s diverse leadership and how the corporation is expanding its diversity efforts through its partnership with AfroTech. Whitney Hopkins, a guest at the event, said she didn’t realize how many African-Americans held leadership positions at Bank of America, and she was pleasantly shocked to see African-Americans spread across so many different spaces working there. Attendees learned about Bank of America’s latest innovations and the company having over 3,000 patents, which is more than any tech company, including Google and Microsoft. Cameron Wadley, the chief operating officer for client-facing platforms...