Beyond the job board - Attract passive eCommerce talent

The best eCommerce talent isn’t always actively looking for a new job. They’re busy driving growth, optimising digital experiences, and shaping the future of online retail. But that doesn’t mean they’re not open to the right opportunity - if it’s presented in the right way.

So, how do you get on their radar without bombarding them with cold LinkedIn messages or relying on job boards? Here are fresh, modern ways to attract passive eCommerce talent in 2025 - without being pushy or predictable.

Create ‘talent magnet’ content that speaks to them

Generic ‘We’re hiring!’ posts don’t cut it anymore. Instead, businesses need to create content that adds value to potential candidates before they even consider applying.

How to do it:

• Share behind-the-scenes insights into your company culture on LinkedIn and Instagram.
• Create ‘Day in the Life’ videos with current employees in key eCommerce roles.
• Host live Q&A sessions on emerging trends, featuring your leadership team.

Why it works: When you showcase what it’s actually like to work for your brand, you attract like-minded talent who resonate with your values—before they’re even considering a move.

Cranberry Panda tip: Consider launching an industry newsletter or podcast where top eCommerce talent can engage with your brand regularly, keeping you on their radar for when they’re ready to move.

Build a personalised talent nurturing strategy

If someone isn’t looking for a job right now, that doesn’t mean they won’t be in 6 or 12 months. A well-structured talent-nurturing approach helps you stay in touch without being intrusive.

How to do it:

• Keep an up-to-date database of passive candidates in your CRM/ATS.
• Send personalised check-ins—avoid ‘just seeing if you’re looking’ emails. Instead, reference industry news, company updates, or mutual interests.
• Invite them to exclusive invite-only events, such as webinars or networking meetups.

Why it works: It keeps your company on their radar, making it more likely they’ll reach out when they’re ready to move.

Cranberry Panda tip: Using a smart CRM like Bullhorn or Greenhouse helps track candidate interactions so you can personalise outreach without being repetitive.

Engage in niche online communities

While LinkedIn is still a go-to platform for recruitment, many top eCommerce professionals spend their time in smaller, industry-specific online communities.

Where to look:

• Slack groups like DTC Fam (for direct-to-consumer eCommerce pros).
• Private Discord servers for Shopify developers, UX designers, and paid media specialists.
• Niche LinkedIn groups focusing on eCommerce performance marketing, growth hacking, and logistics.

Why it works: These groups are where experts really talk shop, share ideas, and engage in meaningful discussions - making them ideal for spotting and connecting with high-calibre passive talent.

Cranberry Panda tip: Instead of jumping in with job ads, contribute value first - share insights, ask smart questions and build real connections. The best hires often come from organic conversations.

Offer ‘test drive’ opportunities through project-based work

Many professionals are hesitant to jump into a new role without knowing what they’re getting into. A great way to attract passive talent is by offering low-risk, project-based engagements where they can ‘test drive’ your company before committing.

How to do it:

• Offer short-term consulting projects for specialists in growth marketing, UX or data analytics.
• Launch an eCommerce advisory board and invite high-level passive candidates to contribute.
• Run hackathons or innovation challenges where freelancers and full-timers collaborate on a real business problem.

Why it works: It gives talent a genuine feel for your company’s culture, leadership, and challenges - making it easier for them to envision working with you full-time.

Cranberry Panda tip: Some of the best full-time hires start as short-term consultants. Keep an open mind when bringing in contract talent - they might just be your next permanent team member!

Winning passive talent in 2025

The best eCommerce professionals aren’t scrolling job boards - they’re busy excelling in their current roles. If you want to attract them, you need to take a long-term, value-driven approach.

By building relationships through content, personal engagement and strategic networking, you create a brand that top talent wants to work for - even before they’re officially looking.

Looking for eCommerce specialists to drive your brand forward? Cranberry Panda can help you connect with top talent - whether they’re actively searching or just waiting for the right opportunity. Get in touch today!