How to Create Job Postings That Attract Top Candidates

Your job posting needs to be more than a list of demands for potential candidates. Instead, they need to be a balanced overview of the position, the top skills you’re looking for, your company, and its culture. It also needs to be written in a way that is engaging to candidates, so they are inspired to take action and apply for the job. Where do you begin? Here are some tips.

How Can Your Job Postings Attract Top Candidates?

What to Include

Your job posting must have certain details. This will not only ensure your posting is search engine friendly but also attractive to candidates. These include a description of the job with keywords, clearly defined tasks, compensation and benefits information, and details about workplace flexibility and the company culture. It should also be in a mobile-friendly format, so whether a candidate is on a laptop or mobile device, they can easily read your job posting and apply.

Do’s and Don’ts for Your Job Postings

Each candidate only gives your job posting a quick scan – less than 15 seconds – before making a decision about whether to apply or move on. To ensure you attract the best-fit people to your positions and your company, follow these do’s and don’ts.

• DO use a job title with a keyword so your posting is easy to find and understand.
• DO NOT use hyperbole and cliches, like “Ninja Programmer.”
• DO create a format that is easy to scan and keep the content concise.
• DO include clearly defined responsibilities and requirements that are non-negotiable.
• DO NOT list every nice-to-have skill or qualification; focus only on the essentials.
• DO offer a picture of the company culture and day-to-day responsibilities.
• DO include any unique perks, like tuition reimbursement.
• DO NOT include generic benefits; instead, be specific with a compensation range and benefits.
• DO include an example of a project the new hire would own.

The bottom line is that the more accurate your job posting, the higher quality candidates will apply. So invest the time and effort into creating one that will truly inspire and attract the right-fit people. You’ll make the hiring process so much easier when you do.

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