Most sourcing debates are framed as passive versus active. In practice, the better question is where each segment fits in your weekly workflow.
Example query
- Keywords
- Active segment
- Location
- Urgent role
- Filters
- OTW + recently OTW
- Experience
- First wave
Active candidates first for speed
When a role has a tight deadline, start with Open To Work and recently OTW filters. These profiles usually convert faster to first replies and interviews.
Passive candidates for niche roles
For senior or rare skill sets, passive profiles can be the only viable pool. Treat them as a second wave after your active shortlist is moving.
Try this query in the live demo — 5 candidates, no signup required.
Do not mix segments in one list
Keep active and passive candidates in separate pipeline views. Mixed lists make outreach messaging inconsistent and slow manager feedback.
Track conversion by segment
Measure reply rate and interview conversion separately. This tells you when to expand beyond OTW-first sourcing for a given role family.
- Start with OTW for urgent roles
- Use passive pools for niche hiring
- Separate lists by candidate intent
- Compare conversion metrics weekly
