You want a shit tonne of applications, but you want quality. You want a candidate who has the skill set, but you want the cultural fit. We get it. We go through the same rigmarole when hiring at Pedestrian HQ. So we thought it was about time we give you our hot tips on how to craft a doozy of a job description, to help you land a legend of a candidate. Plus, we’re offering 50% off your first job ad for all our new friends! Simply email us at jobs@pedestriangroup.com.au to claim. Already one of us? We still luv ya – email us for a free promo on your next job ad.
We’ve seen our fair share of job descriptions at Pedestrian JOBS. When crafted carefully, they do a whole lot more than just communicate an opening at your company. The same way an unprofessional email address tells you a lot about a candidate (hello ‘lil_cute_angel87’), a job description tells potential employees a lot about the company you’re working/hiring for. They can attract ideal candidates straight to your inbox, position your company (and brand) as the industry leader it is, and ultimately help you find
~ the one ~. Ready to get writing? Let’s go.
1. GIVE US SOME BACKGROUND
These days, job seekers are savvy and spoilt for choice. They want to know about:
– Your mission – what makes your company tick? Why do you do what you do?
– What the bloody hell you do – if you like to keep it low key.
– Achievements / awards – keep it humble.
– Werk perks – do you offer a four day working week?
– Company name + logo – unless you’re ASIO, there’s probs no need to keep it hush, hush.
You’re trying to hire a human, not a robot. Give the candidates something to resonate with before they get deep into lurking your company online.
2. VIDEO THE VIBES
Wrike, a project management software company, mixes it up a little and includes a one minute video with every job description on their website.
Of course, depending on the size of your company, it could be time consuming filming a short snippet for each role. However, a video can provide a more accurate insight into the vibe and culture of a company than words alone. Wrike’s convinced it’s worth it: “recruiters get three emails a week that reference the job description video“.
We’re gonna assume individuals thinking about exploring their job-options are not looking into them while at their desk – they’re researching roles on their commute to or from work. So your job description will most likely be consumed via a mobile device. Keep the screen size in mind, think about the formatting and spacing (who doesn’t love bullet points?) and stick to short sentences.
4. GOODBYE GENERIC JDs, HELLO PERSONALITY
Similar to writing emails, it can be easy to switch to autopilot, which equals a rather dull job description. But chances are, job seekers want some insight into the atmosphere of a company A.K.A. where they’ll potentially be spending 37+ hours each week, like if you have an office dog named Gary (love you, Gary).
“Almost everyone speaks about the importance of cultural fit when it comes to hiring but often fails to infuse their own recruitment process with their company culture.” says Pedestrian.tv Co-founder Chris Wirasinha.
“Job descriptions are a great start. What’s the tone of voice of your business and what is it that sets your workplace apart from others?“.
“At Pedestrian our JDs will often feature pop-culture references and will be run through our editorial team for a once over before being posted.“
“Be like Beyonce and make some sweet Lemonade with your next JD“.
5. LET YOUR JD DO THE WORK FOR YOU
Sifting through every CV is not as romantic as a rose ceremony on The Bachie. Want a way to wean out the wieners from the great? Build a metaphorical wall (i.e. obstacles) to help do the sifting for you. You could do this by adding screening questions, asking candidates to create a short video and/or asking them to complete a task that is related to the role. If a candidate ignores your questions/task – simply ignore them. Voila.
6. WHAT’S IN IT FOR ‘EM?
Remember it’s a two way street. The same way you’re not into a cover letter that reads like a monologue, if your job ad is all about you, it can be a bit of a cringe. These candidates wanna work for you, but they also want to know if you’re willing to invest in them. They wanna know if there are opportunities for development and growth and room to make an impact at your company! So let them know what you can offer and you’ll have a new hire in no time.
Look, if you’re reading this, you’re probably after a candidate. Just as an FYI, Pedestrian JOBS has got the job ad goods. Get hiring here.
