The first step in any recruitment process is posting an ad for the vacancy. And companies that know how to write a job advertisement get more qualified candidates – thus, more chances of finding the perfect fit. So, how do they do it?
What is the magic formula for crafting the perfect job ad? Olinio’s recruitment services specialists know that there is no arcane incantation to invoke – just due diligence and following these actionable tips:
1. Create Your Target Candidate Profile
First of all, please note that we do not say “the perfect candidate”. If you want to learn how to write a job ad that gets noticed by qualified people, forget about the ideal purple unicorn candidate. Instead, put together the must-have requirements and qualifications to perform the job duties to an acceptable standard.
Once you have a clear and complete candidate profile, you can start writing the ad.
2. Write a Catchy Headline
Learning how to make a job ad starts with the acknowledgement that this is an ad, not a job description. You have to sell your job opening to talented candidates and entice them to apply.
The first thing you must do is attract their attention. Create a challenge, make the promise of a successful career, allude to the potential to grow your company offers. Career-minded individuals are naturally attracted to these job opportunities.
3. How to Write a Job Ad in a Mindful Manner: Use an Inclusive Language
One mistake that may turn away qualified candidates is using pronouns like “he” or “she”. It sends the message that you are looking for candidates fitting a specific gender profile. This is a big mistake in a society that embraces diversity and inclusiveness.
Whenever possible, simply state the formula “the successful candidate”, or “you may be the right fit”. These simple choices will make a big difference in the number of qualified candidates you can choose from.
4. Infuse the Ad with Your Company Culture
When looking for a new career opportunity, candidates need to know that they will join a company that shares their values. They want to fit in the company culture, and feel comfortable doing so.
This is why, an important step in learning how to write a good job ad is sharing details about your company culture in the text. Even the choice of words and the tone of voice speak volumes, so craft your job ad in the same manner as you craft business and marketing materials.
5. Don’t Ask for Qualifications that Are Not Necessary
Many companies fail to attract people who would be a great fit for the job, because they include unnecessary qualifications in the job ad. While some candidates go ahead and apply for a job even though they do not meet all the requirements, they are truly not the kind of people you want to hire.
Career-oriented people are careful about building their personal brand and avoid making these decisions. They prefer to skip an ad than give the impression that they are desperate for a job – any job.
6. State the Benefits and Job Duties Clearly
Companies that learned how to write a job advertisement have one thing in common: their ads list both job duties and the remuneration package clearly. They use bullet points to facilitate reading and use simple and direct language.
This allows candidates to properly evaluate the offer and analyse if it is acceptable for them. Having a clear understanding of demands and expectations from both sides is what makes a recruitment process efficient and successful.
7. Finish with a Compelling Call to Action
How do you end a job ad? The only correct answer is: the way you would end any ad – with a call to action (CTA). It goes beyond the simple “Apply now!” Give candidates one last enticement: the promise that their career will be on the right course if they join your company.
Unsure How to Write a Great Job Ad? Let Olinio Do It for You!
Learning how to make a job ad that attracts the right people takes time. However, your company needs a skilled employee now. This is where the Olinio team steps in to help you.
We are an experienced recruitment company with global reach. We know how to write a job advertisement, and how to conduct interviews and test candidates. The short list you will get contains only candidates who meet the key criteria.
Reach out to us today and let us find the best fit for your vacancy!