Passive Candidate Outreach
Outreach to candidates who are not actively job searching. Works best when you can identify something specific about their background that makes them a strong fit.
The template
Subject: Interesting opportunity at {{your_company}} — worth 10 minutes?
Hi {{first_name}},
I came across your profile while looking for {{role}} candidates — your background in {{specific_skill_or_experience}} stood out.
We're building {{what_you_are_building}} at {{your_company}} and looking for someone who {{what_you_need}}. The role would let you {{exciting_aspect}}.
I know you're likely not actively looking, but given your experience, I thought it was worth reaching out.
Is this something you'd want to hear more about?
{{sender_name}}How to use it: Replace all {{placeholder}} variables with specific details before sending. The more specific your replacements, the higher your reply rate.
Personalization tips
- 01Be honest — acknowledge they're probably not looking.
- 02Name what specifically stood out from their profile.
- 03Lead with what's interesting about the role, not company prestige.
- 04Keep it under 100 words — passive candidates have low patience for long recruiting emails.
Finding verified emails for this template
A great template only works when it reaches a real inbox. Before sending, make sure you have a verified email address for each prospect. emailfinder.dev finds professional emails by name and company domain, LinkedIn URL, or decision-maker role — and confirms each address is deliverable via live SMTP before returning it.
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