HR sourcing is the process of proactively searching for qualified job candidates for current or planned open positions. It involves identifying, contacting, and building relationships with potential candidates who may not be actively looking for a new job but may be interested in learning about new opportunities. The primary goal of sourcing is to pull qualified candidates, especially passive candidates, into the hiring funnel. Sourcing is a long-term process that establishes and maintains a continuous flow of valuable candidates that cover the current and future needs of an organization.
There are three types of sourcing: passive sourcing, active sourcing, and referral sourcing. Passive sourcing involves reaching out to desirable candidates who are not actively looking for a new job but may be interested in learning about new opportunities. Active sourcing involves reaching out to candidates who are actively looking for a new job. Referral sourcing involves leveraging existing employees to refer potential candidates.
Sourcing is becoming a digital activity, with talent acquisition professionals using recruiting software to identify potential candidates. Sourcing specialists, also known as sourcers, are HR professionals who identify and engage potential candidates for current and future hiring needs. They identify future hiring needs, build talent pipelines, and work closely with recruiters to ensure that the right talent is targeted and won over before their competitors.
Sourcing is an integral part of a companys recruiting strategy, and recruiters who source candidates reduce time-to-fill, build talent pipelines, and position themselves to meet long-term recruiting goals.
