Crafting Job Descriptions That Speak to Job Seekers: A Guide for Employers
By Kahlil Kochiyama & Stephanie Dawson
In today’s competitive job market, where employers are contending in a crowded space for the attention of job seekers with numerous options, writing an effective job description is paramount. Job seekers are not merely looking for any opportunity; they’re seeking roles that align with their career goals, values, and lifestyle preferences. Employers also need to be strategic in how they promote jobs to ensure they are attracting only the most engaged and informed candidates into their process.
According to recent research conducted by Gigs there are six key pieces of information that job seekers prioritize before applying for a job:
- Salary and Pay
- Job Requirements and Responsibilities
- Hours and Shift Schedules
- Opportunities for growth
- Company Culture and Environment
- Hiring timeline and start date
Let’s delve into each of these elements and explore how employers and recruiters can incorporate them into their job descriptions to resonate with potential candidates.
1. Salary and Pay
Pay is by far the most important characteristic for job seekers, but ideally, applicants want to know more than just the hourly rate, which only tells part of the story. They also want to understand how tips work and how many hours they can expect to work to comprehend how much money can be made on a week-to-week basis. Overly broad pay ranges are a major turnoff because they impact trust in how much money can actually be made by the seeker. Therefore, it’s vital to be transparent about the salary range or hourly rate, along with any additional benefits such as bonuses, commissions, or perks like healthcare and retirement plans. Providing this comprehensive information upfront helps manage expectations and attracts candidates who are aligned with the offered compensation.
2. Job Requirements and Responsibilities
Our research found that job seekers want to understand in specific terms what the educational requirements are and if they are disqualifying, especially as seekers are moving up the career ladder to find opportunities that can unlock a step up in earning or growth. This is why we’ve made a big investment at Gigs to simplify job descriptions and make requirements more clear. Clearly outline the qualifications, skills, and experience required for the position. Be specific about the responsibilities the role entails to give candidates a comprehensive understanding of what the job involves.
Avoid vague language and focus on concrete tasks and expectations to attract candidates who possess the necessary expertise.
Line Cook role on Gigs with clear, concise requirements
3. Hours and Shift Schedules
With 60 percent of our job seekers already employed, many are seeking supplementary earning opportunities. Therefore, the clearer you can articulate the required shift, the more likely you are to attract applicants with high intent. It’s advisable to split third shift roles into separate job posts from first shift positions. Additionally, employers should explicitly communicate the expected duration of shifts, indicating the typical number of work hours candidates can anticipate.
4. Opportunities for Growth
Top talent seeks not only a job but also a career path that offers room for advancement and skill development. Highlight potential opportunities for growth within the company, such as training programs, mentorship initiatives, or paths to promotion. Emphasize the organization’s commitment to nurturing talent and investing in employees’ professional development. Use Gigs’ video feature that gives employers the ability to tell personal stories of employees that rose up the ranks.
5. Company Culture and Environment
Cultural fit is a crucial factor in job satisfaction and long-term retention. Provide insight into your company’s culture, values, and work environment. Describe what it’s like to be part of the team, including aspects such as company values, team dynamics, and workplace amenities. Authenticity is key; accurately represent your company culture to attract candidates who will thrive within your organization. Check out these employer videos featured on Gigs that show a day in the life of employees at The Healthy Spot and Study Hut.
6. Hiring Timeline and Start Date
Job seekers appreciate clarity regarding the hiring process and expected start date. Communicate the timeline for interviews, assessments, and final decisions to manage candidates’ expectations and demonstrate organizational efficiency. Additionally, provide information about the number of interview rounds, whether the company is looking to fill roles immediately and anticipated start date for the successful candidate to help them plan accordingly.
Incorporating these six key pieces of information into your job descriptions can significantly enhance their effectiveness in attracting top talent. Remember to communicate transparently, be specific yet concise, and highlight what sets your organization apart as an employer of choice. By crafting job descriptions that resonate with job seekers’ priorities, you’ll not only attract qualified candidates but also set the stage for successful recruitment and long-term employee engagement.
For additional insights, visit the Gigs blog or reach out to us here to learn about our free job posts.
