If you’ve ever tried to write a job description, you know it’s not easy. Typically, you either struggle with what to include or end up trying to include too much. The main goal of a job description is to attract the “right” job seeker to your posting, moving them closer to applicant status. However, if your job posting doesn’t provide them with the right information or isn’t attractive enough, you will miss out on candidates who could be a great fit for your role.
Every part of the job description is an opportunity to attract the talent you’re trying to hire. While content is important, job seekers can become overwhelmed if you try to include too much information in one paragraph. Below, we provide steps to writing an effective job posting and ensuring it reaches a wide network of potential candidates.
Creating Your Job Title
Don’t feel obligated to use a generic job title or an exaggerated one. Start with a title that accurately reflects the position and is easily understandable. Avoid combining multiple titles, using internal jargon, or vague titles that might confuse potential applicants.
Ineffective:
- Engineer
- Project Manager
- Analyst / Coordinator
Effective:
- Mechanical Engineer
- Senior Project Manager
- Oil & Gas Field Technician
- Renewable Energy Project Engineer
- Construction Site Supervisor
Summarizing the Role
The position overview should give job seekers a general idea of what they’ll be doing day-to-day. Address the job seeker directly rather than using “the right candidate.” This approach makes the job ad feel more personal and encourages candidates to envision themselves in the role.
Keep your statements short but incorporate descriptive words to make them more interesting and exciting. Explain why the job is a great opportunity and why your company is an attractive place to work.
Ineffective: The incumbent will handle support duties, including working closely with users.
Effective: You will oversee construction projects from inception to completion, ensuring quality standards and safety regulations are met.
Listing Job Requirements
Highlight the five most essential job duties. Use bullet points to list job responsibilities so that job seekers can quickly scan them. Start each responsibility with a verb to make your statements more powerful.
Ineffective: Duties include supporting users, industry knowledge, troubleshooting, testing, incident escalation, and support for projects, upgrades, implementations, and any other duties as required.
Effective:
- Oversee the planning and execution of construction projects.
- Provide technical support and troubleshooting for manufacturing equipment.
- Ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations in oil and gas operations.
- Conduct site inspections and monitor project progress.
- Coordinate with cross-functional teams to ensure project milestones are met.
Listing Qualifications and Skills
Once you have a job seeker excited about your opportunity, they need to know if they are qualified to apply. Start by listing required skills such as specific qualifications and experience. Then, include “preferred skills” that are beneficial but not mandatory.
Ineffective: Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and five (5) years of related experience, including three (3) years of leadership experience; OR, nine (9) years of related experience, OR any equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
Effective:
- Relevant bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience
- Five years of related industry experience
- Three years in a leadership role
- Ability to adapt to a changing environment and handle multiple priorities
- Excellent writing and analytical skills
- Familiarity with industry-specific software is a plus
Sharing Company Values, Culture, and Benefits
Cultural fit is crucial when selecting the right candidate. Use this section to highlight your company’s mission, vision, and values. Include key attributes that would attract candidates, such as insurance, PTO, holidays, and any bonuses or stock options.
Example: At XYZ Corp, we foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement. If you thrive under pressure and have a growth mindset, you’re probably a great fit for our team! In addition to a supportive team environment, you will be eligible for:
- 15 days PTO
- 10 paid holidays
- 10% annual bonus
- Company phone allowance
- Remote working flexibility
Getting the Most Out of Your Job Posting
After creating a great job description, the next step is to leverage the wide network of candidates available. Posting on platforms like LinkedIn or Indeed can help, but you might end up sifting through numerous candidates who aren’t a good fit. This is where a specialized recruitment agency can add significant value. They can broadcast your job to a larger network and utilize their database of candidates who are specifically screened to meet your needs.
Regardless of your approach, the most important factor is effectively communicating the required skills and tailoring your description to the candidate you want to hire. This will engage the right candidates and help you find the ideal fit for your position.
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