Active versus passive

These are the terms recruiters use to describe candidate status as it pertains to their job search. Active candidates are applying to jobs, are interested in hearing details about new roles, and probably have an updated resume. Passive candidates, on the other hand, are not investing much energy in identifying their next great opportunity but, in many cases, will take a call about a role that has an upside (new/cool challenge, improvement in title, 20%+ more comp, etc.).

If you are a passive candidate, does it have to do with your current condition rather than a permanent one? For example, are you in the middle of delivering a critical project, or have young kids and don’t want to travel, or maybe you're waiting for a bonus to be paid out?

Would a change in condition change your interest in considering a new role? The examples I used all have to do with why you might consider your status as passive. However, things could quickly change if the company you work for suddenly lost its biggest customer or if the economy suddenly turned. We tend to make decisions about the future based upon our current state…..things are good? No need to do much…..let it ride.

I see risk in this approach and can recommend one small action you can take today to hedge against this risk.

Update your Linkedin profile.

Make it easier for people like me to find you. You don’t have to follow up on my inquiry…...I know you are busy….but by opening the door, just a little bit, you are exposing yourself to an opportunity and that might make the difference if something goes sideways in your world and you need to find your next great opportunity ASAP.

Written by: Austin Meyermann, Founder and President of Hunter Crown, LLC