They don't apply for jobs. They don't hang out on Indeed or LinkedIn Jobs. And yet there they are: the professionals who are not actively looking, but are open to something new. The so-called 'latent seeking' target group is perhaps the most interesting group in today's job market.
Yet many organisations overlook this group. They focus on candidates who respond to vacancies, while the best matches are often just below the surface.
What is a latent seeking professional?
A latent seeker is someone who is not actively applying, but is open to a good interview. They are satisfied, but not blindly loyal. They keep their eyes open, are curious and want to grow - as long as it really fits.
This group:
- Does not respond to standard job ads
- Want real contact first before committing
- Finds development, culture and meaning at least as important as salary
Why precisely this group is so valuable
Latent seekers often have relevant work experience, are in their prime and have not 'jumped ship out of necessity'. They make conscious choices, which often leads to better, more sustainable matches.
But they only switch when it is really right. And that requires a different approach.
This is how to reach latent seekers
You don't reach these professionals with generic texts and job boards. You reach them with:
- Personalised approach: not a standard email, but a curious message
- Real conversations: listening, probing, sparring
- Transparency: on salary, team, growth opportunities and expectations
- Trust: building relationship, even if someone does not want to switch right now
At SourceMonks, we pay a lot of attention to this. We know our candidates, speak to them regularly and build a relationship. As a result, we often know exactly who is ready for the next step - even before they know it themselves.
Silent does not mean unreachable
Latent seekers are not lazy or uninterested. They are selective. They want to know that a move will really pay off. Not just another job, but more freedom, more impact, more growth.
If you approach them well, they are willing to listen. And if it suits, they make a loyal, powerful switch - often with more impact than anyone else.
At SourceMonks, we believe recruitment starts with connection. And that starts not with a vacancy, but with a conversation. Especially with the people who don't ask for attention, but more than deserve it.
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