Unicorns vs. Rockstars: Who Should You Really Be Hiring?

Posted by

Kate Harry Shipham

Posted on

Mar 12, 2025

Hiring top talent is every firm's goal, but the debate between unicorns and rockstars continues to challenge recruiters. Unicorns are the rare, seemingly perfect candidates who check every box on a wish list, while rockstars are the high-impact performers who consistently drive results. While both sound ideal, deciding which one is the better fit depends on the company’s needs, culture, and long-term goals.

What Defines a Unicorn?

Unicorn candidates are the ones who seem too good to be true—because they often are. They possess a unique combination of hard and soft skills, extensive experience, and an uncanny ability to adapt. The challenge? They’re incredibly rare, often expensive, and may not even exist in the way companies imagine. The search for unicorns can stretch hiring timelines and lead to missed opportunities when strong candidates are overlooked in pursuit of perfection.

The Rockstar Advantage

Rockstars, on the other hand, are the proven performers who consistently deliver. They may not tick every single box, but they make up for it with drive, adaptability, and the ability to learn quickly. Unlike unicorns, rockstars are not mythical—they’re real, attainable, and already making an impact in their fields. Companies that prioritize hiring rockstars often find themselves with a team of high-achievers rather than waiting for a single elusive superstar.

The Cost of Searching for a Unicorn

The pursuit of a unicorn can slow down the hiring process significantly. While leadership may dream of finding that one-of-a-kind candidate, recruiters may spend months (or longer) searching, only to come up empty-handed. Even when found, unicorns might come with higher salary demands, expectations of flexibility, or even an unwillingness to commit long-term. In contrast, rockstars may be easier to attract, onboard, and retain—allowing teams to move forward without prolonged vacancies.

When Does a Unicorn Make Sense?

That’s not to say unicorns aren’t worth pursuing—sometimes, they are exactly what a company needs. If an organization is in a niche industry, developing groundbreaking technology, or in a high-stakes growth phase, it may be worth holding out for that perfect fit. A unicorn hire can bring transformative expertise, helping a company leapfrog competitors. But even in these cases, companies should weigh the cost of waiting versus investing in a high-potential rockstar.

Rockstars Thrive in the Right Environment

One of the biggest benefits of hiring rockstars is that they don’t need to be perfect from day one. They thrive in environments that offer development, mentorship, and opportunities to grow. Given the right support, many rockstars can become the unicorns companies originally set out to find. Businesses that invest in upskilling their rockstars often see greater long-term success than those fixated on finding a perfect hire.

Making the Right Hiring Choice

Ultimately, the decision between a unicorn and a rockstar depends on the specific role and company strategy. If the position truly requires a rare skill set, it might be worth holding out for a unicorn. But in most cases, hiring rockstars who can grow into leadership roles and drive immediate impact is the smarter choice. Instead of chasing perfection, companies should focus on building teams that complement each other’s strengths and fill gaps with development opportunities.

Our Final Thoughts

The obsession with unicorns has led many companies to miss out on exceptional talent. While it’s great to aim high, waiting for the perfect candidate can cost time, money, and momentum. Rockstars bring energy, adaptability, and results—and with the right culture, they can evolve into the powerhouse hires companies dream of. So, before holding out for that mythical unicorn, consider whether a rockstar is already waiting to take your company to the next level.