355 | Dr. Geoff Smart | Why Most Hiring Practices Fail–and What Actually Works

The Greatness Machine

How do you really know if someone is the right fit for your team—or your company’s future? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Dr. Geoff Smart, founder of GH Smart and author of the bestselling book Who, to break down what separates successful hiring from costly mistakes. Geoff reveals the power of evidence-based assessments, why psych tests often fall short, and how intense curiosity—not stress—is the key to unlocking a candidate's true potential.

From helping Fortune 500 companies select CEOs to coaching emerging leaders, Geoff shares stories, strategies, and myths about the hiring process—plus, why the "sell me this pen" test is just bad business.

In this episode, Darius and Geoff will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction to Geoff Smart and His Journey

(02:55) The Importance of Hiring and Core Values

(06:08) Geoff's Origin Story and Founding GH Smart

(09:00) Cultural Fit and Hiring Process

(11:55) The Role of Core Values in Business

(14:52) Firing with Respect and Responsibility

(18:05) A Players vs. B Players in Hiring

(20:54) Adapting to Different Stages of Business Growth

(30:05) Identifying A-Players for Growth

(34:02) The Importance of Leadership in Organizations

(40:25) Effective Interview Techniques

(43:00) Assessing CEOs and Leadership Roles

(48:44) Onboarding and Post-Hiring Strategies

(55:20) Overcoming Fear of Failure

Dr. Geoff Smart is the chairman and founder of ghSMART, a leadership advisory firm that helps CEOs, entrepreneurs, and public-sector leaders build high-performing teams. Founded in 1995, ghSMART is recognized for its rigorous hiring methods, impactful leadership development, and a culture of excellence. The firm has topped Glassdoor and Vault rankings and published several bestselling books, including “Who: The A Method for Hiring”. Geoff holds a Ph.D. in Psychology and was mentored by management legend Peter Drucker. Beyond business, he’s committed to public service and leadership development through programs like the Colorado Governors Fellowship and his work with CiviCo.

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Connect with Geoff:

Website: https://geoffsmart.com/

Website: https://ghsmart.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drgeoffsmart/

Connect with Darius:

Website: https://therealdarius.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/

YouTube: https://therealdarius.com/youtube

Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708

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