A square peg in hiring is a candidate who doesn’t fit the mold (pun intended even though it was a poor pun).  In this economy it might be an older worker who has been laid off from his or her job in an effort to cut expenses.  It might be a creative person who’s company didn’t value their creativity and decided to outsource.  It might be a “trailing spouse” who's been transplanted as the other spouse moved the family to a new location following a job change.
     These square pegs should be looked at closely.  Their knowledge and skills may make them particularly valuable to your business.  In addition to experience, they may bring a new perspective and loyalty to your business that comes from being humbled.  They remember and appreciate the people who boosted them when they were down. 
     When looking for the right square peg for a round hole job look for “Passionate Professionals.”  You’ll find them for every position you have in your organization.  These are the people who like what they do and who do a good job.
     Remember, a racehorse likes to race.  Put them on a track with a jocky on their back and they speed down the track.  But a racehorse, no matter how good, will never make a good carnival pony – tethered to a stake giving little children a ride.  Your job applicants need to be considered for what they're good at.
     Keep an open mind when considering these square pegs – some other company’s loss could very well be your gain.