How to write a job description for a vacant or new role.

Crafting a compelling job description for a vacant role is essential to attracting qualified candidates who align with your company’s needs and culture. A well-written job description serves as the first impression candidates have of your organisation and plays a crucial role in setting expectations for the position. This guide provides practical tips and strategies to help you create an effective job description that attracts the right talent and contributes to your recruitment success.

Eight steps to write a job description that meets the role and company needs.

Before you start writing a job description, take the time to thoroughly understand the role and its importance within your organisation. Clarify the key responsibilities, skills, and qualifications necessary for success in the position. Additionally, consider how the role fits into your company’s overall objectives and culture. This understanding will act as the foundation and guide you in accurately representing the role in your job description.

1. Use clear and concise language.

When crafting a job description, clarity is key. Use straightforward language that clearly communicates the responsibilities and expectations of the role. Avoid jargon or overly technical terms that could confuse or deter potential candidates. Remember, the goal is to attract a diverse pool of qualified applicants who can understand and resonate with the role.

2. Focus on impact and growth opportunities.

Appeal to candidates’ career aspirations by highlighting the impact they can make within your organisation and the opportunities for growth and development. Describe potential career paths or advancement opportunities associated with the role. This not only attracts ambitious candidates but also demonstrates your commitment to employee development and retention.

3. Use bulleted lists and formatting.

Organise the job description using bullet points and subheadings to improve readability. Bullet points are effective for listing key responsibilities, qualifications, and desired skills in a concise format. Use bold or italicized text sparingly to emphasize important information such as required qualifications or unique aspects of the role.

4. Include specifics but allow for flexibility.

Provide specific details about the role, such as expected outcomes or performance metrics, to give candidates a clear understanding of what success looks like. However, also allow for flexibility and creativity in how candidates may approach the role. Avoid overly rigid requirements that may discourage qualified candidates who bring diverse perspectives and experiences.

5. Make it engaging and authentic.

Aim to make your job description engaging and authentic to capture candidates’ interest. Use storytelling techniques to paint a picture of the role and its impact within your organisation. Consider incorporating a brief overview of the team or department, highlighting its collaborative nature and achievements.

6. Include compensation and benefits information.

While you may not want to disclose specific salary figures, providing a general overview of the compensation and benefits package demonstrates transparency and helps manage candidates’ expectations. Highlight unique perks or benefits that set your organisation apart from competitors.

7. Proofread and edit thoroughly.

Before publishing the job description, proofread it carefully to ensure there are no grammatical errors or typos. A polished job description reflects positively on your organisation’s attention to detail and professionalism. Consider having a colleague or manager review the job description for feedback and clarity.

8. Test and iterate based on feedback.

Once the job description is posted, monitor its effectiveness in attracting qualified candidates. Solicit feedback from candidates and hiring managers to identify areas for improvement. Regularly update and refine your job descriptions based on this feedback and evolving organisational needs.

Conclusion

Crafting engaging job descriptions is a strategic process that requires careful consideration of both the role and your company’s unique attributes. By using clear language, highlighting company culture, and emphasizing growth opportunities, you can attract candidates who are not only qualified but also aligned with your companies’ values and goals. Remember, a well-written job description is the first step toward building a talented and motivated team that drives your organisation forward.

If you are looking to recruit for a role, our teams can create and promote high-end job descriptions that secure top talent. Contact the Drake team or submit a staff request through our website today.