A person being recruited is commonly called a recruit.
The term "recruit," when used as a noun, specifically refers to an individual who has been or is in the process of being enlisted, enrolled, or assembled for a particular purpose. This applies across various contexts, from military service to professional roles and sports teams.
Understanding the Term "Recruit"
The core meaning of a recruit centers on the act of being brought into a group or organization. This implies a selection process, an invitation, or a persuasive effort on the part of the recruiting entity.
- Definition: A recruit is a person who has been recruited.
- Military Context: Perhaps the most widely recognized use, a recruit is an individual who has just joined the armed forces, such as the Army. They are typically undergoing initial training or orientation. For example, if someone has recently joined the Army, they are considered a new recruit.
- Broader Applications: While historically strong in military usage, the term has expanded to describe individuals sought for various roles, including:
- Corporate Settings: A prospective employee being actively sought by a company, especially for specialized roles or entry-level talent pools.
- Sports: An athlete being pursued by a college team, professional club, or scout.
- Organizations/Clubs: A new member being encouraged to join a group or association.
Related Terms and Contexts
While "recruit" is the direct answer, other terms might be used depending on the specific phase of the recruitment process or the industry.
| Context | Primary Term for the Individual | Description |
|---|---|---|
| General/Military | Recruit | Someone newly enlisted, assembled, or sought after. |
| Job Application | Applicant | A person who formally applies for a job. |
| Hiring Process | Candidate | An applicant who is actively being considered for a position. |
| Talent Acquisition | Prospect | An individual identified as having potential but not yet applying. |
| Sports (Draft) | Draftee | An athlete selected in a draft, often from college or amateur ranks. |
The Recruitment Process
The journey of a recruit often involves several stages, from initial identification to final onboarding:
- Sourcing: Identifying potential recruits through various channels (e.g., job boards, referrals, scouting).
- Screening: Evaluating qualifications, experience, and suitability.
- Interviewing: Engaging in direct conversations to assess skills and fit.
- Selection: Choosing the most suitable individual.
- Onboarding: Integrating the new recruit into the organization.
Understanding the specific terminology helps clarify the status of an individual within any given recruitment pipeline.
