The Difference Between Active and Passive Candidates

Unless you are familiar with the recruiting and hiring process, you probably don’t know about the 4 main types of candidates. Fortunately, Skywalk Group is here to guide you through the complex process of figuring out which type of candidate is best for your company and how to attract them.

1)Super Passive Candidates

The smallest group of candidates (15 percent of the workforce) are people who are completely satisfied with their jobs, have no desire to change their workplace and are not actively looking for a new job. They are the hardest group to reach out to, because they do not have a resume at the ready and are not interested in filling out an application. You need to provide them with reasons why your company is better and the move would benefit them. Make sure you mention in the initial conversation that you would like an answer even if they do not decide to make the change as they might refer you to someone else who would be interested in the open position.

2)Passive Candidates

Passive candidates make up 60 percent of the workforce, and while they are currently employed, unlike the super passive candidates, they will make the time in their schedule to talk to you. Similar to the super passive candidates, they will also probably not have a resume ready but will be more open to filling out an online application and meeting for an in-person interview. While they may be reluctant to make the change, they can be more easily persuaded than the super passive candidates, as long as you do your best to accommodate their needs (having an interview outside the regular working hours etc.)

3)Tip-toers

These candidates are not actively looking for a job but are preparing on making a change by paying more attention to opportunities and casually inquiring with coworkers, friends and family. These candidates are the reason why an employee referral programs are so important. Make sure these candidates are aware of your open position and what the qualifications are.

4)Active Candidates

These are candidates who are not necessarily unemployed but are actively seeking a new position for whatever reason. This group fills up most of the open positions because they are proactively trying to find a new position and are open to making a change. The key to attracting the active candidates is making the application simple and be flexible in your interview options such as video interviews etc.

We hope this has simplified the hiring process to you, and if you have any more questions, contact Skywalk Group.