Active vs. passive job seekers: the key differences
Our recruiting experts explain the difference between active and passive job seekers.
Max Muster is sitting on the train on his way to work. Like most commuters, his eyes are fixed on his smartphone as he scrolls through his LinkedIn feed. Interesting, he thinks, someone's looking for someone just like me. With a few clicks, he's on the company's page taking a closer look at the job. Max is not actively looking for a job; he's a classic passive job seeker.
What are Passive Job Seekers?
Passive job seekers are employees who are currently not actively searching for a new position, yet they are still open to new professional opportunities. Unlike active job seekers, they are employed but don’t feel strongly tied to their current employer. This offers B2B companies the chance to target and attract this group of employees. Passive job seekers can be a valuable resource as they often possess expertise and experience crucial for specific roles.
It can be challenging to reach people like Max through conventional recruiting channels because they don't frequent typical job platforms. Reaching individuals like Max requires diversifying recruiting channels, relying on digital HR, and utilizing social media.
Why It’s Worth Focusing on Passive Job Seekers
- Higher Application Quality: Unlike active job seekers, passive job seekers can demonstrate higher quality in their applications. Not being under pressure to quickly submit applications, they take more time to present their skills, experiences, and motivations in their applications.
- Cost Efficiency: Successfully recruiting passive job seekers can save costs. Since these individuals typically do not receive financial support from employment agencies, they do not have to make hasty decisions and can carefully consider if the position and company are the right fit for them. This helps reduce turnover and lower the cost per hire.
- Problem Solvers for Specific Roles: Passive job seekers often have specific expertise or experience crucial for certain roles in B2B companies. Targeting passive job seekers allows B2B companies to find talented professionals with the skills and knowledge vital for the company’s success.
Find more information on passive job seekers in this post.
Expanding recruitment channels and specifically targeting passive candidates enables companies to find potential candidates with higher application quality and reduce costs in the long run. Want to effectively target the passive job seekers audience with your job ads? Take a look at our website and contact us!
