Hiring someone is one of the most important decisions a leader can make. It’s also one of the hardest.

I recently made my first full-time hire to support my business and received more than 1,000 applications in just a few days.

Many of the final candidates had impressive resumes. Some had even worked with others like me — speakers, authors, and thought leaders. But the person I hired, Meagan, didn’t have direct experience in this world.

Here’s how she stood out among 1,000+ applicants, and how you can do the same.

Too often hiring managers don’t give high-potential candidates a chance because their background isn’t the perfect fit.