When we scrolled through a certain LinkedIn survey of more than 18,000 full-time workers in 26 countries, we noticed something interesting. The authors consistently used the terms “active” and “passive employees” to describe their different characteristics, thought processes, and general attitudes toward their jobs.
The authors discussed these two separate groups in terms of their job satisfaction, motivation, and passion.
This led us to wonder how these employees differ and whether one is more attractive to employers, or in this case, households, than the other.
What are the differences between active and passive candidates?
Active and passive workers contrast in many ways, many more than we can name here. However, there are a few major differences, according to LinkedIn’s survey.
For example, 52 percent of active employees are satisfied with their jobs compared to 80 percent of passive employees. Their motivations also differ. Typically, passive employees are motivated by higher wages and a more balanced work/life balance, while active ones strive for work environments that encourage growth and advancement. In general, passive employees tend to be slightly more passionate about their work than active ones, although the survey doesn’t indicate why.
However, we should point out that this survey did not discuss “active” and “passive” in terms of the candidate’s personality – an important consideration. For example, “active” employees were not more outgoing than “passive” ones. The authors broke down the two employee types in terms of their states of mind regarding job searching and their approach to work.
Based on the survey results, it’s clear that candidates have different expectations for their careers. The question you likely have now is: Which type of domestic worker should I hire?
Should you hire active or passive employees?
The question we should probably be asking is: Which type of employee is highly skilled and in high demand? After all, we’ll safely assume you want to hire someone who knows what they’re doing.
LinkedIn’s survey does not directly address this question, but an Indeed study conducted by The Polling Company offers a hint.
The poll indicated that years ago recruiters sought passive employees – ones that were happy in their positions and not likely to actively search for new work – because they believed these workers were highly skilled. Today, the script has flipped. Eighty-five percent of in-demand, highly skilled workers are shopping for their services. They are more active than ever before.
What makes active candidates so desirable?
The survey found that 70 percent of higher-ups and over 50 percent of recruiters believe that active workers have more motivation and drive, and therefore are more likely to succeed than passive ones. Other reasons noted Included Passive employees who didn’t get along with management, failed to adapt to the culture or position, and were generally not a great fit.
What should your game plan be?
Hiring an active employee over a passive one doesn’t necessarily guarantee success. However, it is helpful to understand how workers differ and which direction employee-hiring trends are heading.
The right employee will be one who initially meets your expectations. This could include someone who:
- Has the skills to exceed your goals and requirements.
- Can work well with others.
- Will professionally develop in their role and help others do the same.
- Think outside of the box.
- And the list goes on.
Every employee is different, which makes it critical that you sit down with each and discuss everything from their subject expertise to aspirations, if that latter is appropriate. For example, if you have a large staff of domestic workers, there might be room for growth.
If you’re interested in hiring domestic staffing professionals to complete domestic jobs around your home, talk to a domestic staffing agency. Contact Colonial Domestic Agency today!