S03E13 | Passive vs Active candidates in the recruitment market.

The Metal Guys Talk Business

The Metal Guys Talk Business - Bonus Episode

Hosts: Pete Comerford and Mike Bolton
Episode Title: Active vs. Passive Candidates in Recruitment
Release Date: 3rd September 2024

In this bonus episode, Pete and Mike dive into the nuances of recruitment, specifically focusing on the differences between active and passive candidates. They discuss the challenges and strategies of recruiting top talent, particularly in the metals industry. The hosts share insights on effectively engaging passive candidates and the importance of a flexible, candidate-centric approach during the recruitment process. They also touch on the significance of understanding candidate motivations and how businesses can adapt to the evolving recruitment landscape.

Key Discussion Points:

Active Candidates:

• Typically found on job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, or through direct applications.
• Often looking for a step up in salary, especially given the rising cost of living.
• Tend to move quickly through the recruitment process, sometimes securing multiple interviews simultaneously.
• Employers need to make swift decisions to avoid losing these candidates to other offers.

Passive Candidates:

• Often not actively seeking new opportunities but are approached by recruiters.
• Recruitment involves creating opportunities that align with the candidate's skill set.
• Requires a more tailored and persuasive interview process, focusing on selling the benefits and culture of the organisation.
• Need for businesses to be flexible in their recruitment processes to attract and secure passive candidates.

Recruitment Process Challenges:

• The importance of a well-structured recruitment process, especially for passive candidates.
• The risk of losing top talent due to inflexibility in interview scheduling or offer delays.
• The need for businesses to understand the current market and adjust salary expectations accordingly.

Candidate Experience:

• Emphasising the candidate's experience during the recruitment process to ensure engagement.
• The impact of timely communication and clear processes on candidate satisfaction.
• The critical role of onboarding and continuous development in retaining top talent.

Industry-Specific Recruitment Insights:

• Challenges in recruiting within the metals industry, where specific experience and skills are often scarce.
• Discussion on how to attract candidates from outside the industry and the value they can bring.
• The need for businesses to be proactive and innovative in their recruitment strategies.

Learn More:

For more insights on recruitment and strategies to attract top talent in the metals industry, connect with Pete Comerford and Mike Bolton on LinkedIn.

SEASON THREE of The Metal Guys Talk Business is sponsored by:

• SteelBuy: A digital platform revolutionising the way businesses trade metal products online.
• TW Metals: A stockholder and distributor of Nickel Alloy, Aluminium, Titanium, and Stainless Steel products in various forms.
• Comton Group: A recruitment agency specialising in the Metal, Manufacturing, and Engineering sectors.

The Metal Guys Talk Business is created and produced by Comton Group.
Contact us on our social media channels to discuss the podcast and recruitment solutions for your business.

Social Media Accounts:

• Follow us on LinkedIn
• TikTok: @comtonpete and @comtonmike
• Instagram: @comtonpete and @comtonmike