Most cleared candidates today are passive candidates – happily employed individuals who aren’t necessarily looking for a new opportunity. That said, many of them are career-driven and like to keep their options open. For these candidates, there are often a few telltale signs they may be more open to your opportunities. Here are five key movement indicators to keep in mind.

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1. They’ve been with the same company or in the same role for an extended period.

Some people truly are happily employed with one company for the long haul. But for in-demand cyber professionals, in particular, some career fluidity is the norm. If it’s not company, a change in titles or workplaces is common. If you see a candidate who matches all of your criteria and who has also been employed in the same place, you have a great conversation starter – ask them what they love most, and what they dislike, about their current employer. You likely won’t find all of the sticking points in an introductory message, but if, over time, you can find out the sticking points and offer a solution with your company, you’ve likely made a hire.

2. They start freshening up.

It’s like when your spouse suddenly starts going to the gym more often or wearing lipstick for the first time in a decade – you can’t help but wonder who they’re trying to impress. The same goes with a professional’s online profile – a sudden update – even if it’s as simple as a new profile picture – is an easy indicator they may be ready to consider other offers.

3. Other people in their industry are moving.

No one likes to be left behind. If you notice that multiple other candidates within the same company recently left for new positions, the candidate you’re after may be ready for a change, as well. Whether it’s a toxic leadership culture that’s promoting the moves or just peer pressure, it’s much easier to both contact and entice a candidate who’s peers have recently made a change, as well.

4. They start hitting the job search scene.

An itchy candidate can’t help but take a look at what’s out there. Viewing job listings on a career site such as ClearanceJobs is almost a surefire indicator they’re ready to entertain your offer. It’s true they could just be interested in the listings, but it’s more likely they’re thinking about applying. Catch them while they’re still looking, and before they have a chance to start applying, and you’ll have a stronger chance of snagging them.

5. They become a joiner.

Whether it’s joining industry groups or just becoming more active, engagement is another indicator a candidate is likely open to new opportunities. Posting to relevant groups, publishing more status updates, or replying to more threads within an industry network are all great indicators that a candidate is spending a little more time building their career network.

The best part of all of these career movement indicators? They all offer great opportunities for you to start relevant conversations. Even if it turns out the candidate isn’t ready to make a move, you’ll be top of mind when they are. And we all know relationships lead to the best hires.

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Lindy Kyzer is the director of content at ClearanceJobs.com. Have a conference, tip, or story idea to share? Email lindy.kyzer@clearancejobs.com. Interested in writing for ClearanceJobs.com? Learn more here.. @LindyKyzer