5 ways to write a job posting that will attract the right candidate

Hiring—it can be exasperating since most resumes go straight into the slush pile. Learn how to write a job posting that attracts the best candidates for the job.

Although you may often receive cold calls from qualified prospective employees, it’s more common to announce an opening and then wade through the responses. When you advertise an opening on an online job website, all kinds of people will apply. The best way to refine your search is to learn how to write a job offer that weeds out unqualified people right off the bat. Here are a few pointers to guide you through your writing.

Although creativity and a jaunty attitude can attract good people, using a ridiculous title or puns might incite your ideal candidate to pass you by. If your goal is to advertise the fun of working at your organization, do so clearly and concisely. Choose a title with terms that are specific to your employment sector.

List exactly what you’re looking for including skills, education, training, and experience. You can also insist that applicants who don’t meet the requirements refrain from applying. That will prevent you from having to sort through eager candidates who just don’t have the right skills.

You may also want to make two distinct lists—one showing the required hard skills; the other showing the soft skills needed for the position. Describe the working environment, the job profile, the daily tasks, expected work schedule, and the duration of the employment contract.

This is a very simple, but crucial aspect. Clearly indicate the deadline for applications, which documents to include with the application, whether you want paper copies or e-mail applications, the person in charge of recruiting, and a postal or e-mail address.

These days, people who know how to write a job offer understand that most of it happens online. In fact, popular social networks can be critical to the hiring process because they allow you to reach a greater number of suitable candidates.

Understanding how to write a job offer is akin to doing a puzzle. If it’s just not getting you the results you need, you can always hire a recruiting specialist. Head hunters are happy to do the legwork in order to get you the right man or woman for the job!