A Comprehensive Guide on How To Write a Job Advertisement
Top talent is always on the lookout for the best work opportunity. In a competitive job market, knowing how to make job descriptions more attractive can make or break your hiring process. Job seekers often scan through dozens of postings, so it’s crucial to make yours stand out. In this guide, we’ll break down what a job description should include, offer insights on inclusive job descriptions, and provide tips on how to attract top-tier candidates.
Why the Job Description Matters
A job description is the first impression a possible employee will have of your company, so knowing how to write a job advertisement that is clear, concise and compelling helps to draw in candidates who are genuinely interested in the role. It should say more than what responsibilities the role entails; it should convey the company’s values, culture and work environment.
By setting the tone for what the candidate can expect throughout the hiring process with a well-written job description, you can effectively manage expectations on both sides. This ensures applicants have a clear understanding of what’s required and what they’ll gain from joining your team.
What a Job Description Should Include
Before diving into how to write a job advertisement and how to make job descriptions more attractive, let’s cover the components of inclusive job descriptions:
Job Title
The title should be focused and to the point. Jargon or creative titles should be avoided where possible. Instead of using, “Customer Happiness Officer,” for example, one should consider, “Customer Support Specialist.” This keeps it simple, and applicants will more likely find your job posting through a job search.
Overview of Company
Include a company overview that describes the mission and values, as well as anything special that can make your organization stand out. This is an important aspect of how to write a job advertisement because it sets the context of the position for the applicant.
Responsibilities/Duties
Clearly outline the main responsibilities of the job. Make sure it shows day-to-day tasks and long-term goals. Being transparent about the job is key when planning how to make job descriptions more attractive.
Required Qualification
When preparing what a job description should include, you must list the qualifications necessary and skills needed for the job. Distinguish between the required qualifications versus the preferred qualifications so that you will not discourage a potentially well-qualified candidate from applying.
Benefits and Perks
Listing benefits and perks is important to writing a job advertisement that stands out. Think beyond the standard health insurance and 401(k) contributions. For example, if you offer flexible hours, remote work or growth in a career, those can be included as well.
Inclusive Job Descriptions
Prioritizing inclusivity is among the most critical elements of how to make job descriptions more attractive. You’ll attract all sorts of candidates, further driving your organization to become more innovative and dynamic.
Language plays a significant role in achieving inclusivity. Use language that invites candidates of all stripes to apply and is supportive in tone when determining how to write a job advertisement. Signals for valuing diversity might be explicit with the use of a diversity statement such as, “We encourage applicants from all backgrounds and experiences.”
Another aspect of what a job description should include is language about qualifications. For example, it is not necessary to put requirements that aren’t actually required; this may discourage good candidates. Evidence shows that women, in particular, are less likely to apply unless they meet all the criteria. Plus, some candidates might boast unusual qualifications that surprise you by being a unique fit. Clarity in your qualification section without excessive demands helps in how to write a job advertisement that appeals to a wider audience.
How To Make Job Descriptions More Attractive
With countless competing job postings vying for the best candidates’ attention, you need to know how to make your inclusive job descriptions stand out. Here are a few ways you can boost your job ad:
Use Appealing Language
The tone of your job description determines just how desirable your open position will be. It’s all about using positive, proactive phrasing. For instance, instead of, “Must be able to work under pressure,” consider using, “Thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.” These subtle word shifts in how you write a job advertisement will make the job feel far more inviting.
Highlight Growth Opportunities
When discussing what a job description should include, we mentioned growth opportunities to be listed as a benefit of the role. Today’s workforce is frequently interested in career development. When thinking about how to make job descriptions more attractive, don’t forget to highlight career growth possibilities within your organization. Applicants need to feel that they will grow and evolve in their position, and this might be achieved by mentioning professional development programs, mentorship, and possible career paths.
Discuss Company Culture
When preparing to write a job advertisement, take some time to think deeply about how to express your company’s culture. The top candidates are seeking not only a paycheck but also to be part of an organization whose ideals are in tandem with their own. This is an opportunity for inclusive job descriptions too, as you can make your job advertisement more appealing by discussing a commitment to social responsibility or the care for employee welfare.
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Writing a job ad that will eventually stand out requires a balance between information and fun. The language should be clear and concise yet not void of the company’s personality. With a better idea of how to write a job advertisement, you can confidently apply these tips on what a job description should include in your next job posting.
Looking for more help creating a results-oriented ad that brings top talent on board? Complete a Staffing Request Form at Whitman Associates to get started with full-service staffing solutions.
