Successful Job Descriptions

As a professional yourself, you know that the job description is your first handshake with potential candidates. The same way a well written resume is important to the employer, a well written job description matters to potential candidates.

A well-crafted job description not only attracts top talent but also sets clear expectations from the get-go. Here are some tips to make your job descriptions stand out in Australia’s competitive labour market:

Start with a Punchy Job Title – (Such as Mikki’s title that is The Chief Sniffing Officer)

• Keep It Specific: Avoid generic titles like “Manager” or “Developer.” Instead, go for “Digital Marketing Manager” or “Full-Stack Developer.” This clarity helps candidates distinguish whether the job is for them or not.

• Add a Little Flair: If your company culture is laid-back, don’t shy away from adding some personality. A title like “Marketing Guru” could catch the eye—just make sure it’s still searchable on job boards!

Sell the Role in the First Paragraph

• Hook Them Early: Candidates typically spend only 14 seconds on a job ads before deciding if it’s worth their time (source: LinkedIn). The same may well apply to job descriptions! Use the first few lines to highlight what makes the role exciting. Mention unique projects, growth opportunities, or innovative technologies that they’ll be working with.

• Use Bullet Points: Prospective candidates, love reading through job descriptions. Use bullet points to make the key responsibilities and qualifications easy to digest.

Be Clear About the Responsibilities

• Avoid Vague Descriptions: Phrases like “other duties as assigned” are as useful as a chocolate teapot. Be clear and specific about what the role entails. This transparency not only attracts suitable candidates but also sets the right expectations.

• Prioritize the Essentials: Focus on the must-haves. According to SEEK, listing too many responsibilities can overwhelm candidates and make your description less effective.

Detail the Required Skills, But Don’t Overdo It

• Stick to the Must-Haves: A laundry list of “required skills” can scare away good candidates, especially women who are less likely to apply unless they meet 100% of the criteria (source: Hewlett Packard research). Highlight the essential skills and leave the rest for “nice-to-haves.”

• Show Flexibility: Mention that certain skills can be learned on the job. This approach not only widens your talent pool but also appeals to candidates who are eager to grow.

Showcase Your Company Culture

• Make It Relatable: Candidates want to know what it’s like to work at your company. Inject some personality into your description. If you have a dog-friendly office, or weekly team lunches, let them know!

• Highlight Your Values: According to a survey by Glassdoor, 77% of candidates consider a company’s culture before applying. Make sure your values and work environment are front and center.

Discuss Salary and Benefits (Yes, Really)

• Be Transparent: We know, talking money can feel awkward, but candidates appreciate transparency. According to LinkedIn, job posts with salary information get 30% more applications.

• Highlight Unique Perks: Do you offer flexible working hours, mental health days, or professional development opportunities? These perks can be just as important as the salary and help your job to stand out.

End with a Strong Call to Action

• Make It Easy: Encourage candidates to apply and provide clear instructions. A simple, friendly “We’d love to hear from you!” can go a long way.

Proofread and Test

• Check for Errors: Nothing says “unprofessional” like a typo. Double-check for any grammatical errors or unclear language.

• Test the Waters: Consider A/B testing different job descriptions to see what works best. A small tweak can make a big difference in the response rate.

Remember, a job description isn’t just a list of requirements—it’s an opportunity to showcase your company and attract the talent that will drive your business forward. So, put on your creative hat, keep it clear, and don’t be afraid to show a little personality!

Don’t forget our job description builder that is a friendly AI teaming up with you to write a successful job description! ß This needs to be a hyperlink to job description builder