You don’t need to be actively job hunting to start exploring what else is out there. In fact, some of the best career moves I’ve seen started with a casual, “I’m not really looking, but…” conversation. As a recruiter who speaks with public practice accountants daily, I can tell you this: being open doesn’t mean being disloyal or uncertain. It means you’re thinking ahead.
The Power of Passive Recruitment Search
Passive job seekers – those who aren’t applying to every ad or desperate to leave – often have the strongest leverage. Why? Because they’re usually content, skilled in their role, and thoughtful about their next step. When these candidates speak to a recruiter early, even just to get a feel for the market, they give themselves something valuable: time. Time to reflect on what they actually want. Time to understand their value. And time to move on their own terms – not in a panic.
How a Passive Recruitment Search Works for You
I work with people for the long term. Some candidates find the right role within a few weeks. Others might wait six to twelve months for something quite specific. The more I understand about what you’re genuinely after – whether it’s location, size of firm, culture, client exposure, or flexibility – the more I can keep my ear to the ground.
That means you’re not just seeing what’s on Seek. You’re hearing about behind-the-scenes conversations, unadvertised roles, and opportunities before there’s any competition. It works the other way too. Many clients aren’t actively hiring, but if the right person comes along, they’ll often find a way to make space.
If this sounds like you – curious, but not committed – I’d encourage you to start the conversation. No pressure. No immediate CV needed. Just a chat. Whether you’re wondering about your options, salary trends, or how to make a move feel right, that first step can be low-key and high-value.
After all, the best roles don’t always go to the most active candidates. They often go to the most informed ones.
Real Candidate Examples: The Power of Passive Recruitment
Patricia – From Comfortable to Client-Facing
“Patricia” was happy in her current role. But after some reflection, she realised she wanted more client engagement and hands-on advisory work. We kept in touch over several months. After behind the scenes conversations, and once the timing felt right, I introduced her to a firm that prioritised strong client relationships.
They clicked immediately – the culture, the people, the way they worked. It just felt right. Because I understood exactly what she was after, I could align her with a firm that matched her values. It was one of those moments where everything just fit.
Sam – Waiting for the Right Time
“Sam” and I stayed in touch for over 12 months before they made a move. With a young family, their role worked well for that stage of life, so there was no rush. A year later, the right opportunity came up. It offered both flexibility and the career development they’d been hoping for.
Because I understood their priorities, I was able to represent them before the role even hit the market. They secured their ideal next step, and the firm found someone they’d quietly been hoping for.
Jamie – The Fast-Track to Partner
“Jamie” wasn’t looking for just any role. They wanted a clear fast-track to Partner. And let’s face it – not every firm offers that! Through ongoing chats behind the scenes, I scoped out which firms could align with their aspirations.
In the end, Jamie landed an opportunity with progression that’s rarely seen in the market. They got what they were after – and it was worth the wait.
If you’re ready to work with a recruiter who listens and tailors the process to your needs, the Tyler Wren team is here to help.
Find out more about Tyler Wren’s:
- Public Practice Recruitment Here (NZ)
- Public Practice Recruitment Here (AU)
- Legal Recruitment here (NZ)
- Legal Recruitment here (AU)
- Risk and Compliance Recruitment here (NZ)
- General Insurance Recruitment here (NZ)
- Wealth Management Recruitment here (NZ)
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