As recruiters, it’s pretty clear by now that LinkedIn is a prime tool when it comes to winning candidates.
It’s usually the first port of call for any serious consultant, and you only have to do a quick Google search to see the myriad of articles espousing the need to get “LinkedIn” with your candidates.
But what about identifying those candidates in your network who might just be starting to look for new jobs? They might not have applied to your vacancies yet, so how are you supposed to find them?
If you can recognise the signs of someone who’s potentially getting ready to enter the job market, you stand a pretty great chance of beating any other recruiter to the punch and snagging them as a candidate.
But how are you supposed to find them? They’re only JUST dipping a toe into the job pool.
The key to snapping up new job seekers is pretty straightforward to be honest.
Watch out for INTERACTION.
Are they joining new groups?
So you’re considering a career move, maybe to a better role. You’ve been in your current job for a while, so you’re a little rusty on the most recent issues facing your industry. You use LinkedIn at work, and you know how many people are on it. So where are you going to go to look for knowledge and expertise?
Of course. LinkedIn.
With all those handy groups and role model networkers in your community, you can just start joining some relevant groups and start refreshing your knowledge in preparation of an anticipated future interview.
If those in your network begin joining more groups than they used to, they may well be looking for a bit more insight. Maybe in preparation for new roles?
Are they contributing more than they used to?
You’ve heard the tales. In this day and age, potential employers pretty much universally check at least one of your social media accounts when they are considering you for a role. Which are they most likely to investigate to gauge your professionalism?
Ah. LinkedIn.
So the best way to show your suitability for any future roles is to start getting a bit more engaged with your industry, maybe engaging with questions and aiming to come across as helpful and informed. Maybe you could start posting industry relevant news.
If people in your network start increasing their levels of engagement with topics, this is a pretty hefty hint that they’re preparing for a job hunt.
Have they updated their profile information?
When you were happily ensconced in your job role, you didn’t really mind so much that your profile was a bit out of date. So you forgot to mention your degree… what does it matter?
Now that you’re thinking of looking again, it’s become crucially important that your information is up to date and makes you look incredible. And where do you start?
Oh. LinkedIn. (I’m beginning to see a pattern here)
If someone in your network starts doing some pretty significant profile updates, there’s a good chance they’re getting ready for something different.
Alongside these huge giveaways, potential candidates might also do things a bit more subtle like furtively increasing their own networks. Building a network of well-connected professionals means they have more access to potential job posts and contacts within their industry.
As recruiters it’s your challenge to be the Sherlock Holmes of LinkedIn.
Find those connections who are considering a move, and get there before your competition.
The game is afoot!
We believe in helping recruiters, that’s why we came up with our fantastic specialist job boards. Access unique candidates without needing those Sherlockian powers of deduction. Check out our video or contact us to schedule a demo.