4 Key Factors in Choosing the Best Candidate Sourcing Tools

October 16, 2024
Read Time
Min Read
Table of Contents

Are Job Posts Really Working?

Get the Report

Download our free Recruitment Signals report!

Download

Let's be real here. It's not so easy finding and landing the right talents on empty seats lately. In the competitive job landscape today - and in the foreseeable future -  companies need to be efficient in their hiring process to attract the best talent. And one way to do this is by using candidate sourcing tools, which can help recruiters find and engage with qualified candidates.

With so many candidate sourcing tools available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your company.

Don't worry. We got you covered. Let's jump into this article and go through the process of selecting the best candidate sourcing tool for your company.

What Is Candidate Sourcing?

In today's job market, a small portion of 36% of the workforce is actively searching for a new job opportunity, while over 90% is willing to discuss and learn more about the opportunity. This is why candidate sourcing is a crucial component of the recruitment process.

Candidate sourcing involves finding and attracting potential candidates for job openings. It is aimed at identifying qualified individuals who are not actively looking for job opportunities but may be interested in exploring new job positions if presented with the right offer.

Candidate sourcing can be performed through various methods, such as job boards, social media platforms, professional networks, and recruiting events. It may involve reaching out to potential candidates directly or indirectly, either through targeted messaging or through running targeted ads.

As competitive as the job market gets, companies need to be efficient in their hiring process to attract the best talent. And candidate sourcing tools can come in to help recruiters find and engage with qualified candidates, as well as streamline the recruitment process. By using these tools, recruiters can save time and effort in finding the right candidates for their companies.

How? You might ask. Well, candidate sourcing tools use various methods to source candidates, such as job boards, social media platforms, and professional networks. These tools can help recruiters access a larger pool of qualified candidates, improving the chances of finding the right fit for the job.

Candidate sourcing tool comes with many benefits for recruiters and companies. It provides access to a larger pool of candidates, automates the process of sourcing candidates, saves costs for advertising job openings on various platforms, and provides a more streamlined and efficient application process, as well as improving the candidate experience.

When selecting a candidate sourcing tool, it is essential to consider the features it offers, the user-friendliness of the interface, its integration capabilities, and the level of customer support offered by the provider.

Some common features to look for are resume parsing, Boolean search, automated job posting, and analytics and reporting. By selecting a candidate sourcing tool that meets your company's specific needs, you can streamline your hiring process, save time and money, and find the best candidates for your company.

Overall, candidate sourcing is a vital part of the recruitment process that can help companies efficiently attract the best talent. With the right candidate sourcing tools, recruiters can streamline their hiring process and access a larger pool of qualified candidates, making it easier to find the right fit for the job.

YOU MIGHT LIKE: 7 Tips to Supercharge your Candidate Sourcing Strategy

How Do Recruiters Source Candidates?

Recruiters use a variety of methods to source candidates, depending on their specific hiring needs and preferences.

One of the most common methods is through job boards, where recruiters post job openings and wait for potential candidates to apply. Job boards such as LinkedIn, Glassdoor, Indeed, and Monster are popular choices for recruiters as they allow access to a large pool of candidates who are actively looking for job opportunities.

How large? Well, over 75% of workers who are in a career change use LinkedIn, while Indeed welcomes 250 million visitors each month.

Another method is through social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook. Recruiters can search for potential candidates using specific keywords and phrases related to the job opening and reach out to them directly or indirectly.

Social media platforms are an excellent way to reach a large number of candidates quickly and cost-effectively. Also, according to a poll done by Express Employment Professionals in 2020, 71% of hiring decision-makers believed social media is an efficient way to screen applicants.

At the same time, professional networks, such as alumni networks, industry associations, and online communities, are also popular choices for recruiters. These networks provide access to a large pool of qualified professionals who are likely to be interested in job opportunities in their field.

Recruiters can identify potential candidates in these networks and reach out to them directly or indirectly.

Referrals are another effective way for recruiters to source candidates. Recruiters can ask their existing employees or network for referrals, which can be a great way to find qualified candidates who are likely to have a good fit with the company culture. Referrals are also an excellent way to expand the company's network and reach a broader pool of potential candidates.

Recruiting events such as job fairs, conferences, and trade shows are a great way for recruiters to source candidates as well.

These events provide opportunities for recruiters to meet potential candidates in person, showcase their company culture, and attract top talent. Recruiters can also use these events to network with other professionals in their industry and expand their network of potential candidates.

Once recruiters have identified potential candidates through these methods, they reach out to them directly or indirectly. Direct outreach may involve sending personalized messages to potential candidates or calling them to discuss job opportunities. In comparison, indirect outreach may involve running targeted ads on social media platforms or job boards to attract potential candidates.

So, What Is a Candidate Sourcing Tool?

A candidate sourcing tool is a software solution that helps recruiters find potential candidates for job openings.

These tools use various methods to source candidates, such as job boards, social media platforms, and professional networks. By using these tools, recruiters can save time and effort in finding the right candidates for their company.

Why Use a Candidate Sourcing Tool?

Using a candidate sourcing tool has many benefits for recruiters and companies. Some of these benefits are:

  • Access to a larger pool of candidates: Candidate sourcing tools enable recruiters to search for candidates beyond their immediate network, providing access to a larger pool of qualified candidates.
  • Time-saving: These tools automate the process of sourcing candidates, saving recruiters time in finding the right candidates.
  • Cost-effective: By using candidate sourcing tools, recruiters can save money on advertising job openings on various platforms.
  • Improved candidate experience: Using candidate sourcing tools can improve the candidate experience by providing a more streamlined and efficient application process.

Examining the Costs of Candidate Sourcing Tools

When it comes to selecting a candidate sourcing tool, one of the most critical factors to consider is the cost. While these tools can provide significant benefits in terms of time and resource savings, it is important to evaluate their costs against the potential return on investment.

One of the first things to consider when assessing the cost of a candidate sourcing tool is the pricing model. Some tools are free, while others may charge a subscription fee or per-user fee.

The cost of a subscription can vary widely depending on the features offered by the tool and the number of users. It may be important to look for a tool that offers a pricing plan that can scale with your recruitment needs.

In addition to subscription and per-user fees, some candidate sourcing tools may also charge additional fees for certain features or services.

For example, some tools may charge extra for resume parsing or targeted messaging. It is important to factor in all these costs when evaluating the overall cost of a candidate sourcing tool.

While cost is an important factor to consider, it should not be the only factor. It is equally important to evaluate the benefits provided by a candidate sourcing tool.

Some tools offer a larger pool of qualified candidates, while others offer more advanced features that can streamline the recruitment process. The benefits of these tools can provide a significant return on investment in the long run.

When evaluating the benefits of a candidate sourcing tool, it is important to look beyond just the immediate recruitment needs. These tools can help companies build stronger talent pipelines, which can lead to cost savings in the long run.

It is also essential to consider the impact that these tools can have on the recruitment process as a whole, including the candidate experience.

Another important factor to consider is the scalability of the tool. As your recruitment needs evolve, it is important to have a tool that can grow and adapt to your company. This can help reduce the need to switch tools as your recruitment needs change, which can be costly and time-consuming.

Ultimately, the cost of a candidate sourcing tool should be evaluated in the context of the overall recruitment strategy. By considering the benefits, accessibility to talent pools scalability, and long-term impact of these tools, recruiters can select a tool that provides the best value for their company.

Selecting the right candidate sourcing tool is paramount for companies to build a stronger talent pipeline and attract the best candidates more efficiently and cost-effectively.

While the cost of a candidate sourcing tool is an essential consideration, it should not be the only factor. The benefits, scalability, and long-term impact should be evaluated in conjunction with the cost to select a tool that provides the best value for the company.

POPULAR: Candidate Sourcing What Works On the 5 Top Hiring Channels

How to Choose the Right Candidate Sourcing Tool for Your Company

Choosing the right candidate sourcing tool can be overwhelming, but it is essential to select a tool that meets your company's specific needs. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a candidate sourcing tool:

1. Features

When selecting a candidate sourcing tool, it is essential to consider the features it offers. Look for a tool that has features that align with your company's hiring process. Some common features to look for are:

  • Resume parsing: This feature automatically extracts relevant information from resumes, making it easier for recruiters to review and evaluate candidates.
  • Boolean search: Users will be able to conduct advanced searches using specific keywords and phrases.
  • Automated job posting: Post job openings on various platforms automatically can be done with this feature.
  • Analytics and reporting: With this feature, recruiters will be provided with data and insights on the effectiveness of their hiring process.

2. User-Friendliness

A candidate sourcing tool should be easy to use and navigate. Look for a tool that has an intuitive interface and requires little to no training to use.

3. Integration

When selecting a candidate sourcing tool, it is essential to consider its integration capabilities. Look for a tool that can integrate with your company's existing HR software and other tools, such as your applicant tracking system.

4. Customer Support

Lastly, consider the level of customer support offered by the candidate sourcing tool provider. Look for a provider that offers excellent customer support and is responsive to your company's needs.

PODCAST: EP21: Groundfog - Staying Agile: Building an HR function in Startups (with Irina Constantinescu)

Manatal: The Right Choice for Recruiters

According to research by LinkedIn, 86% of companies are interested in investing in intelligence software for sourcing simply because it increases the chance of achieving higher-quality recruitment in a shorter period of time.

One candidate sourcing tool worth taking a look at is Manatal. It is a cloud-based recruitment software that offers a range of features to help recruiters find and hire the best talent within a few clicks.

Here are some of the reasons why Manatal is the right choice for recruiters:

  1. Comprehensive Features

Manatal offers a comprehensive set of features to help recruiters throughout the hiring process. Some of its features include:

  • Resume parsing and keyword highlighting: This feature automatically extracts information from resumes and highlights keywords and phrases that match the job requirements.
  • Boolean search: Advanced searches using specific criteria, such as location, experience, and education, can be easily done within a few clicks.
  • Automated job posting: In one click, you'll be able to post job openings across over 2,500 channels, including Indeed, LinkedIn, Monster, CareerJet, JobStreet, and more.
  • Analytics and reporting: Manatal provides recruiters with data and insights on their hiring process's effectiveness, such as the time-to-hire and cost-per-hire.
  1. User-Friendly Interface

Manatal's cloud-based recruitment platform comes with an intuitive and user-friendly interface that requires little to no training to use. Its dashboard provides recruiters with an overview of their hiring process and enables them to manage candidates, job openings, and interviews in one place.

  1. Seamless Integration

You can integrate Manatal with job boards such as Monster, tools and channels like Zapier, and more to provide recruiters with a seamless workflow.

  1. Excellent Customer Support

Users will be provided with excellent customer support. With Manatal, you will have all the help and guidance you need throughout the hiring process.

LEARN MORE: Manatal’s Candidate Sourcing feature

LEARN MORE: All There is to Know About Recruiting SaaS

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right candidate sourcing tool is essential for recruiters and companies to attract the best talent efficiently. When selecting a candidate sourcing tool, consider its features, user-friendliness, integration capabilities, and customer support. Manatal is an excellent choice for recruiters, offering a comprehensive set of features, an intuitive interface, seamless integration, and excellent customer support.

By using Manatal, recruiters can streamline their hiring process and find the best candidates for their company. At the same time, there are other candidate sourcing tools available in the market that may suit your company's specific needs as well. It is essential to evaluate your company's hiring process and needs before selecting a candidate sourcing tool.

Start a 14-day free trial with Manatal today and discover more about how its Candidate Sourcing feature can help you identify the best talent and efficiently manage them through the recruitment pipeline within a few clicks.

Sourcing candidates shouldn't be hard.

Source & hire candidates faster with Manatal's ATS.
No credit card required
No commitment
Start Free Trial

Latest Articles

Explore how Manatal can Fit
your Business

Receive an overview of Manatal platform from a product expert.

Get started with Manatal

Our 14-day free trial allows anyone to explore the platform without commitment, while our team is committed to providing support and guidance throughout the process.
Data migration from your existing recruitment software
Team training for a fast and smooth onboarding
Transparent and flexible pricing without lock-in contract
Highest security protocol as standard (SOC II Type 2)
24 / 5 support availability via live chat
All-in-one platform covering all your recruitment needs

Transform the Way You Recruit Today.

World-leading Recruitment Software for Talent Acquisition and Recruitment Professionals.
900,000+
Recruitment processes managed.
10,000+
Active recruiting teams.
135+
Countries.
Bill Twinning
Talent Resources & Development Director - Charoen Pokphand Group
Manatal is the best ATS we worked with. Simplicity, efficiency and the latest technologies combined make it an indispensable tool for any large-scale HR team. Since its adoption, we've seen a huge increase across all our key recruitment metrics. To summarize, it is a must-have.
Dina Demajo
Senior Talent Acquisition - Manpower Group
Manpower has been using Manatal and we couldn't be happier as a team with the services this platform has provided. The application is extremely user-friendly and very well equipped with all the useful functions one would require for successful recruitment. The support team is also excellent with very fast response time.
Ahmed Firdaus
Director - MRI Network, Executive Search Firm
I've been using Manatal for the past couple of months and the platform is excellent, user-friendly and it has helped me a lot in my recruitment process, operation and database management. I'm very happy with their great support. Whenever I ask something they come back to me within minutes.
Edmund Yeo
Human Resources Manager - Oakwood
Manatal is a sophisticated, easy-to-use, mobile-friendly, and cloud-based applicant tracking system that helps companies achieve digitalization and seamless integration to LinkedIn and other job boards. The team at Manatal is very supportive, helpful, prompt in their replies and we were pleased to see that the support they offer exceeded our expectations.
Maxime Ferreira
International Director - JB Hired
Manatal has been at the core of our agency's expansion. Using it has greatly improved and simplified our recruitment processes. Incredibly easy and intuitive to use, customizable to a tee, and offers top-tier live support. Our recruiters love it. A must-have for all recruitment agencies. Definitely recommend!
Ngoc-Thinh Tran
HR Manager, Talent Sourcing & Acquisition - Suntory PepsiCo Beverage
I am using Manatal for talent sourcing and it is the best platform ever. I am so impressed, the Manatal team did an excellent job. This is so awesome I am recommending the solution to all recruiters I know.
Bill Twinning
Talent Resources & Development Director - Charoen Pokphand Group
Manatal is the best ATS we worked with. Simplicity, efficiency and the latest technologies combined make it an indispensable tool for any large-scale HR team. Since its adoption, we've seen a huge increase across all our key recruitment metrics. To summarize. it is a must-have.
Ahmed Firdaus
Director - MRINetwork, Executive Search Firm
I've been using Manatal for the past couple of months and the platform is excellent, user-friendly and it has helped me a lot in my recruitment process, operation and database management. I'm very happy with their great support. Whenever I ask something they come back to me within minutes.
Dina Demajo
Senior Talent Acquisition - Manpower Group
Manpower has been using Manatal and we couldn't be happier as a team with the services this platform has provided. The application is extremely user-friendly and very well equipped with all the useful functions one would require for successful recruitment. The support team is also excellent with very fast response time.
Kevin Martin
Human Resources Manager - Oakwood
Manatal is a sophisticated, easy-to-use, mobile-friendly, and cloud-based applicant tracking system that helps companies achieve digitalization and seamless integration to LinkedIn and other job boards. The team at Manatal is very supportive, helpful, prompt in their replies and we were pleased to see that the support they offer exceeded our expectations.
Maxime Ferreira
International Director - JB Hired
Manatal has been at the core of our agency's expansion. Using it has greatly improved and simplified our recruitment processes. Incredibly easy and intuitive to use, customizable to a tee, and offers top-tier live support. Our recruiters love it. A must-have for all recruitment agencies. Definitely recommend!
Ngoc-Thinh Tran
HR Manager, Talent Sourcing & Acquisition - Suntory PepsiCo Beverage
I am using Manatal for talent sourcing and it is the best platform ever. I am so impressed, the Manatal team did an excellent job. This is so awesome I am recommending the solution to all recruiters I know.

Try Manatal for free during 14-day with no commitment.

No credit card required
No commitment
Try it Now