How to find a passive employer - the keys to an opportunity hire

We all know the difference between a passive and active candidate.  Our best clients understand that a passive candidate who is currently happy in their job, but attracted to a new opportunity when presented, is the ideal next hire.  But how often do we talk about a candidate looking for a passive employer?

This is a bit more of difficult proposition as candidates typically have a very traditional approach to their job search.  They start with job posting boards or the local "help wanted" ads.  Then perhaps move onto their professional spheres of influence for ideas from people they already know.  Last resort might be approaching who they consider to be hiring authorities or Human Resource professionals through Linked In or other sites.

But why not instead research the companies in your geography that are always making the news as good places to work?  Or perhaps the organizations that always seem to get publicity for growth, innovative ideas, employees in the public spotlight?  The best companies to work for often don't need to do much traditional advertising on job boards when opportunities come available.  You need to already be visible to them when they get to the point to add to staff as opposed to always being reactive.  Otherwise you will be left behind and others that took a proactive approach will snag those jobs.

So how do you get on their radar screen?  Here are three functional ideas to consider -->

1) Get connected on Linked In with key employees within the organization.  Not necessarily hiring authorities in each case, but influential leaders in a company are usually tied in some fashion to hiring decisions.  You will instantly be in the "loop" with other connections they have that might provide critical information regarding the company's growth plans or areas of need.

2) Look on the company's website for information about current employees.  Where are they tied into the community?  Are there any natural connections?  Can you find a common group that might make sense to join so that you can get to know some of the company's top employees.

3) Find someone you know this is connected in some fashion to the company you have interest in.  You can do this on social media, by simply Googling the company's name, checking online publications, and much more.  Companies are much more prone to talk with an "opportunity hire" candidate if they have some familiarity with them or an instant credibility reference.

As a quick plug for my profession I will also state the obvious -- working with a well-informed third party recruiting firm could instantly connect you with the people you need to know.  Oftentimes our clients will listen to our advice and guidance if we source a candidate that is just flat out someone they should know.  Some conversations begin informally, while others are more formal.  They won't always have current or upcoming openings, but can create something for the right candidate.

It is still a very competitive workplace and the great jobs are hard to come by.  If you want to find a long term career move and not just a job, your best bet might be to find a passive employer willing to take a chance on a quality candidate that fits their culture and knew about their needs before they even were public knowledge.