Sourcing is an important subset of the modern recruiting process. So, what is sourcing? The definition of sourcing is the process of identifying, engaging, qualifying and submitting candidates who would not have applied themselves. Having a continuous talent pipeline is the primary goal of sourcing, so that identified talent can quickly fill any openings.

Effective sourcing leads to better hiring outcomes and improved candidate quality.  However, in today’s highly competitive job market, recruiters and hiring managers face significant challenges.

This article covers effective sourcing strategies, best practices and tools to enhance your recruitment process. It discusses the development of sourcing in recent years and how it has become more proactive and data-driven and also explores the shift toward AI-assisted sourcing and its impact on the recruitment landscape.

What Is Candidate Sourcing?

Candidate sourcing is a proactive and strategic process of identifying, attracting, and engaging potential candidates for current and future job openings. It involves utilizing a variety of channels, including public databases, social media, professional networks, employee referrals, and direct outreach, to find individuals who match the organization’s target profile. Sourcing goes beyond simply searching for candidates; it focuses on building relationships with both active and passive candidates, generating interest in open positions and the organization, and creating talent pipelines for ongoing hiring needs. While screening may be involved, the primary focus of sourcing is on identifying and attracting potential candidates, rather than the more comprehensive evaluation process of recruitment.

Approximately 70% of the workforce consists of passive candidates not actively seeking work. Organizations operate with a talent pool of 30%. Sourcing is a proactive activity focused on engaging passive candidates in order to establish talent pipelines, creating a diverse candidate pool.

More than just finding candidates, sourcing involves building relationships and nurturing talent for current and future roles. Sourcing in procurement has evolved to incorporate data-driven and AI-assisted technologies, including predictive analytics and machine learning, to improve the process.

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