How to reach passive job seekers as an employer?
Spoiler: the answer isn’t “post another vacancy on your website.”
Not actively applying but quietly exploring that’s the simple definition of a passive job seeker. They often have a perfectly fine job but are open to something new… if the right opportunity shows up, through the right channel, at the right time, and with the right feeling. And in a labour market where nearly every sector faces shortages, this group matters more than ever.
Only 12% of the workforce is actively job hunting. But 43% are passively open to new opportunities. They're not taking action yet, unless someone else makes the first move. And that’s where your opportunity lies.
If you know how to reach passive job seekers, you’ll gain access to a quiet, high-potential talent pool. That’s exactly where we, as your recruitment partner, make the difference.
From job title to story
Passive candidates don’t click “Apply now.” They respond to recognition, to that subtle feeling of: “I could see myself there.” They don’t engage with “fast-paced environment” or “competitive salary.”
What does resonate? People sharing their real stories, a workplace that feels authentic, a culture that comes across clearly. At JUSTIN, we help you show that. No empty slogans, just real stories that stick.
Connect without the hard sell
Anyone can send a LinkedIn message. But passive job seekers see through generic outreach immediately, especially when it feels like a sales pitch. This group wants human contact, not pressure. What works: genuine, tailored messages, interest in the person, not just their resume, relevance before role. We’re close to the target audience and they know us. That makes our conversations natural, not transactional.
From job description to experience
Publishing a job ad is fine, but it’s not how you reach passive job seekers. They’re not browsing job boards, they’re scrolling LinkedIn, Instagram, chatting in their network or stumbling upon your brand. That’s why, at JUSTIN, we turn job ads into employer experiences. Think about: campaigns that give off real vibes, videos featuring team members, posts that match your tone and audience. We make sure the right people see you, even if they weren’t looking.
Connection without application pressure
Most passive candidates aren’t ready to commit. They’re quietly observing, thinking, feeling something shift. But they don’t want to jump straight into a formal process.
What they don’t want: cover letters, three-stage interviews, standard assessments.
What they do want: Spance, a low-pressure chat, a chance to get to feel the vibe.
That’s why we do it differently:
- We offer informal chats (no formal application needed)
- We create soft entry points: someone hears about your company through a friend or colleague, which feels more natural than applying cold
It lowers the barrier and raises the chance that someone thinks: “I want to know more about this place.”
Time and attention are currency
Strong candidates rarely drop out because of the role itself, but passive ones walk away from silence, delays and unclear processes. And let’s be honest: you don’t always have time to chase every lead. That’s where we come in. JUSTIN keeps the momentum going. We follow up, stay in touch and strike when the time feels right. That way, “maybe someday” turns into “let’s talk.”
Why passive job seekers are so valuable
This group doesn’t switch jobs out of necessity; they move because it feels right.
And that often makes them:
- More motivated
- A better long-term match
- Focused on content and culture over perks
Being passively open means:
- Choosing more consciously
- Comparing more critically
- Wanting to feel aligned
Exactly the kind of people you want in your team. But you’ll only reach them if you go beyond the usual recruitment playbook.
In short:
Reaching passive job seekers takes a different approach. It’s not about shouting louder, it’s about connecting smarter. Not about pushing jobs, but about sparking curiosity. Not about chasing CVs, but about creating the right energy. That’s what we do at JUSTIN. We build trust, translate your culture into attraction and help the right people think: “This might actually be something for me.” And that’s why a recruitment partner isn’t a luxury. It’s a smart move.
Curious how we can help your organisation do exactly that? Let’s talk!