When you’re looking to fill a key role in your company, the process of finding the right candidate can seem daunting. How do you find someone who is qualified and has the right cultural fit? The answer lies in creating a great job description. Let's show you how to create job descriptions that will help you find the best talent for you team!

Avoid Gendered Words

Even if the word isn’t outright gendered, certain words like “ninja” and “guru” can turn some applicants off, so it’s best to avoid them altogether. We highly suggest using The Gender Decoder tool, which is a free online tool that can tell you right away whether your job ad leans too much towards either feminine or masculine-coded words.

Limit Job Requirements to Only the Essentials

The most common word used in job descriptions is “required.”  Instead of using the term "required," soften your language with terms like “familiarity with,” “some experience in,” or “extra points for.” Even you know there’s usually wiggle room on qualifications.

Avoid Technical Language

It can be intimidating to entry-level candidates who have the skills but come from less traditional corporate backgrounds to see words or phrases specific to your industry that they are unaware of. Terms like CAD system or CMS should be avoided or written out (ex. CMS or “content management system”) to avoid candidates from being deterred from applying.

Mention Your Commitment To Diversity And Inclusion

Let your applicants know that your company promotes diversity in the workplace by mentioning your commitment to diversity and inclusion in the job description.

Include a Specific But Common Job Title

Don’t get too crazy with the job title you select, but make sure to be specific. Use a common job title that will attract candidates and perfectly explain the position you are hiring for.

Catch a Candidate's Attention

Research has shown that you have about eight seconds to capture people’s attention, which is why it is crucial for the first few sentences of your company’s job description to catch the attention of the reader.

Include Details That Make Your Company Unique

What makes your company stand out from your competition? Has your company won any rewards over the past year? Include anything that can set your company apart from the other positions a candidate is applying for.

Add The Exact Job Location

Candidates want to know how far their commute to a job opening would be before applying. In fact, 63% of candidates would not commute over 45 minutes to a job, so it is important to add your exact office location.

Include Information on How the Role Fits Within the Organization

Explain if the position is a team role, who the direct manager would be, and everything else that will help a candidate understand where the role fits within your organization.

List Hard and Soft Skills Needed to Get the Job Done

If your office is fast-paced and energetic, make sure to include that you are looking for candidates with organizational skills, problem-solving skills, and time management skills.