Keys to Effective Job Descriptions

Think of job descriptions as opportunities to sell your organization and position to the most desirable candidates. Engaging top talent, and encouraging them to join your team, should be some of the primary goals of your job descriptions.

How can effective job descriptions help your organization?

Just as candidates put their best feet forward on their resumes, job descriptions offer an opportunity for your organization to present itself, and the open position, in a most desirable light. Here are some tips for ensuring your job descriptions attract the cream of the crop:

1. Use a “hook.” Ever have an add in the newspaper draw you in? An effective hook, including your specific job title, attracts candidates to your posting, and helps set the tone for the rest of the description.
2. Give insight into your company and culture. Potential employees are sizing up your organization as much as you are considering their qualifications. Give candidates insights into your company’s unique culture in the job description, and help give clues to the types of professionals who will thrive in your company.
3. Avoid exclamation points and CAPITAL LETTERS!!!! Too much punctuation in a job description can be a frustration and turnoff for many professionals. Let your position and company speak for themselves, without embellishments.
4. Give specifics – and offer  potential. Don’t just list requirements and qualifications, detail opportunities and potential for a position. Motivate top performers to join your organization by presenting them with clearcut goals they can work toward and achieve if they join your team. And offer these goals and opportunities with as much detail as possible.
5. Be unique. Maybe every company has a receptionist, but what does your company offer a receptionist that others don’t? Stress the aspects and potential of the position to make your job posting stand out from the pack.

When used effectively, job descriptions can be communication tools for your organization. Tools that can offer exciting potential for your organization’s success. If you are having difficulty creating effective job descriptions for your business, Pinnacle can help. Our experienced recruiting team is comprised of experts in their field, who are ready to create a customized solution for your business. Contact us today to learn more.