Back to blog

What does proactive actually mean?


In the past, you may have heard us or others refer to LiveHire as a “proactive” method and process of recruitment.

It’s an important term because being “proactive” is what separates us from traditional recruitment platforms.

But, what does proactive actually mean?

Originally coined in 1933 by Paul Whitely and Gerald Blankfort in a psychology paper, the term was used in the technical sense to literally mean:

[Pro + Active]

 

From here, the term was used to better understand, evaluate and assess world events, by cross examining the fictional outcome if governments if they had used a proactive approach, rather than responding after the event (reactive).

The results proved that a proactive approach would eventuate in a more positive outcome, where resources, money, and time would ultimately be saved.

Today, “Proactive” (adjective) is an everyday term, defined by the Cambridge Dictionary as: taking action by causing change and not only reacting to change when it happens, citing efficient and effective as related words (Source: Cambridge Dictionary). 

What’s the benefit of being proactive?


By being proactive, you’ll be more prepared for whatever situation comes your way.

No matter the scenario, a proactive approach means you’ll be far better equipped to deal with any situation.

It means you’ll save time and money.

By putting in the time and effort now when you have time and flexibility to move, instead of later when you’re under pressure, you’ll be able to make smart choices for both your wallet and your time.

Proactivity allows for flexibility.

Because you’re considering things before they actually happen, being proactive gives you more options. This means you’ll reach the right solution for yourself, without having to cut corners or make sacrifices.

It will help you to see the bigger picture and understand long-term goals. 

By acting proactively, you’re always looking forward. Because you’ve got room to move and aren’t under a set time constraint, you’re able to understand what the best decision is for you in the future. It gives you the opportunity to look towards next month and next year, not just tomorrow.

Proactive activity fosters creativity, change, and promotes diversity.

By actively choosing to change your behaviour by being proactive, you’re stepping outside of your normal comfort zone. When any individual is faced with something that isn’t routine and familiar, opportunities for diversity and creativity arise. Creativity and diversity are essential for fostering innovation and are proved to increase productivity.

You’ll see an increase in productivity.

When you have more time to make decisions, and in particular the right decisions, productivity ultimately increases.

So, why was LiveHire created?

“The key is engaging with candidates before you actually need them.”

In the last five years, time to hire has more than doubled from 28 days to 68 days. As a result, companies’ productivity is decreasing, as is company revenue.

As a result of the huge influx of job board applications, lack of communication between hiring managers and employees means company and candidates relationships were beginning to strain, and as a result, company reputation was jeopardised.

Created as the solution, LiveHire leaves the ancient reactive methods in the past, creating a candidate centric platform that looks towards the future, rather than just the now.

LiveHire’s Customer Success Manager, Jarrod Stooke explains:

“Reactive recruitment is commencing recruitment when a position in vacant or needed. This is in direct contrast to proactive recruitment, where you have a pipeline of candidates ready for a position before the position is even required. The key is engaging with candidates before you actually need them.”

By creating company specific Talent Communities, prospective candidates then have the opportunity to join.  From here companies can Talent Pool quality candidates before the role even arises, allowing them to quickly and easily connect with them when a relevant role arises.


Interested in learning more? Book a demo with us today.


Take the next step

The best way to source, engage and hire

Request Demo

Our latest whitepaper

Why Direct Sourcing Programs Fail

Take the next step

The best way to source, engage and hire