Recruit softly, and carry a big stick

That seems to be the unspoken motto of hiring managers everywhere who are searching for the most elusive of prospects: the passive job seeker.

The phrase itself is an oxymoron. Passive job seekers aren’t really seeking anything, jobs or otherwise. Rather, they’re already employed, usually enjoying their work and occasionally tuning in to the buzzing job market to see if anything piques their interest.

Does this description fit you? Then recruiters are just waiting for you to emerge from the shadows so they can hook you. And with the IT talent pool evaporating, hiring managers are increasingly motivated to snag top talent (read: you) from competitors.

Here are a few ways recruiters might be contacting you. One way is placing hard-hitting ads in key publications and job boards to attract your coveted eyeballs. Another is reaching out with cold calls or eMails to engage you.

Recruiters with a softer touch might invite you to an open house at their company. This combines the usefulness of an information session with the informality of a meet-and-greet, and lets you and the possible employer mingle without so much pressure to seal a deal.

No matter which way you go, remember that one size does not fit all in the passive job-seeking world. The most persuasive recruiters will customize their approach to meet your needs; and stay flexible, friendly and accommodating through the entire process.

Posted by Roseanne D.