As one of the top staffing firms in Dade County, we know that many employers approach recruiting the same way. Post a job opening, screen resumes, interview potential candidates, and make a decision.
The problem is that employers are missing out on an entire pool of candidates – passive candidates – with this approach.
So what are passive candidates? And why should you recruit them?
Passive candidates are defined as those candidates that are currently employed. They aren’t looking for a new job, but are open to the right opportunity. They may not even have an updated resume, but they have plenty of accomplishments to tout.
While many employers focus on recruiting active candidates, the passive candidates represent a pool of high quality individuals that you should engage as well, especially if you’re looking to hire for a key position that requires a very specific skill set.
Here’s how.
Ask for referrals.
Referrals are probably the easiest and most cost-effective way to find out about passive candidates. So send out an email to your top people inquiring about potential referrals. Also reach out to your network of contacts outside the company as well.
Use social media.
Another easy way to identify passive candidates is through the use of social media, such as LinkedIn. You can easily search for professionals with certain job titles or certain keywords in their profiles, either in your area or even around the globe.
Network, network, network.
If a candidate has heard of you, or your company, then they are much more likely to be open to the opportunity you’re offering. Familiarity breeds comfort, after all, which is why it’s so important to regularly network.
Use the right language to describe the opportunity.
Remember, passive candidates aren’t looking for a new job. So when you connect with them, you need to pique their interest about the opportunity and your company. In order for them to make a move to your company, you need some WOW factor.
Identify their pains…and offer solutions.
Another way to help interest them is to educate them about where they should be in terms of compensation for their skill set and experience. Until they get the facts, they may not realize they’re being under-compensated. Then explain what you can do for them in terms of work environment, challenging assignments, higher earning potential, training and mentoring opportunities, etc.
If you’d like some assistance expanding your recruiting efforts to include passive candidates, give us a call. As one of as one of the top staffing firms in Dade County, we have a proven track record of success in finding the best fit candidates for a variety of positions. Contact us today to learn more.