Which candidates are referred to as 'passive candidates'?

The term 'passive candidates' specifically refers to individuals who are not actively seeking a new job but may be open to new opportunities if approached. These candidates are typically employed and may not be aware of job openings or may be content in their current positions. The allure for recruiters lies in the potential to engage these individuals, as they tend to possess valuable skills and experience, enriching the talent pool.

Choosing candidates who are currently unemployed does not fit the definition of passive candidates because these individuals are actively seeking work. Those who are not seeking a job at all also do not align with the concept of passive candidates since their lack of interest in new opportunities makes them less accessible for recruitment purposes. Lastly, interns and trainees are usually at the beginning of their careers and typically do not fit into the category of passive candidates either, as they are often seeking to transition into full-time roles actively. This context clarifies why employed candidates open to new opportunities are definitively considered passive candidates.