Have you ever been contacted directly by a company or recruiter when you weren’t actively looking for a job? This target is referred to as a passive candidate. These are individuals who are currently working and not seeking another job, but would consider an offer if it was exceptional. Companies like to hire people in this demographic, for a variety of reasons. Even if you are happy in your current position, it doesn’t hurt to position yourself to be found by others. Here are some ways you can optimize yourself as a passive job seeker.
Update your LinkedIn profile regularly.
If you work in the field of accounting, you should already have a completed LinkedIn profile. But one of the mistakes that people make is not updating it frequently. LinkedIn should be considered a living resume. It is a great place to list new accomplishments without alerting your company that you’re looking for a new job.
Participate in LinkedIn groups.
Groups are another great way to participate on LinkedIn and allow potential employers to see what you can do. Become a resource for others. Join groups and answer questions. Occasionally post information you believe the group as a whole will benefit from.
Be active on social media.
Other social media avenues are also critical for passive job seekers. You don’t know what is out there, you’re not looking, but employers are looking for you. They see your professional activity on Facebook and Twitter and are making notes. Be active and engaged with others in your space.
Talk to others in your community.
When you talk to others in your community, don’t be afraid to tell them what you do. You may not want to say you are looking for a job, but you can imply that you would consider other avenues if they became available. Become a person trusted in your community and someone may knock on your door.
Continuously network.
Never stop networking. Even after you get a job, even when you’re happy in your job, networking should always be a top priority. You don’t have to do it with the intention to land a new job, but rather to simply expand your connections within your community and your industry. If someone is interested, they can come to you.
If you are thinking about embarking on a job search, working with a financial recruiter can really increase your chances at taking the next step in your career. Contact our great team of recruiters today to work with a top financial staffing agency in Washington D.C.
