What Should Be Included in a Job Description to Attract Qualified Candidates?
Writing a great job description is an art form. Get it right, and you’ll have talented, eager candidates lining up for the position. Get it wrong, and you’ll either scare off qualified applicants or drown in a sea of mismatched resumes. The secret? Honesty, clarity, and just the right amount of detail to make your job—and your company—irresistible.
Start with a Clear Job Title
This is the first thing candidates see, so make it count. While it might be tempting to jazz things up with titles like "Office Rockstar" or "Happiness Coordinator," clarity beats creativity here. Stick to industry-standard terms that make the role easy to find and understand. If the position has a specific focus, include it—something like "Marketing Specialist – Social Media Focus" tells candidates exactly what they’re getting into.
Add a Compelling Company Snapshot
Candidates aren’t just applying for a job; they’re signing up to work with you. Give them a reason to care. Share a little about your business—what you do, who you serve, and what makes your company special. Are you a close-knit team of innovators? A family-run operation with deep community ties? Whatever your story is, tell it. Candidates want to connect with your mission, not just your paycheck.
Paint a Picture of the Role
When describing the role, focus on painting a realistic picture of the day-to-day experience. What will this person actually do? What challenges might they face? Skip the fluff and buzzwords—no one needs another generic description of a "fast-paced environment." Instead, be upfront about expectations. If the role involves juggling deadlines or wearing multiple hats, say so. Transparency at this stage builds trust and attracts candidates who genuinely align with the position.
Define the Qualifications Clearly
The goal isn’t to craft a wish list for a dream candidate who probably doesn’t exist. Instead, focus on must-haves—those skills, experiences, or certifications that are truly non-negotiable. If certain qualifications are just "nice to have," say that. For example, "Experience with Adobe Illustrator preferred, but not required" invites candidates to apply without scaring off those who might be a great fit but lack one specific skill.
Be Transparent About Compensation
While some businesses shy away from including salary ranges, transparency is increasingly expected—and appreciated. Be upfront about pay and highlight the benefits your company offers, whether it’s health insurance, PTO, flexible schedules, or unique perks like wellness stipends. Even if your budget is tight, emphasizing non-monetary benefits like growth opportunities or work-life balance can make your business stand out.
Highlight Opportunities for Growth
A job description isn’t just about what you need—it’s about what the candidate gets. Talented professionals want more than just a paycheck; they’re looking for opportunities to grow. Show them the bigger picture. Will they have access to training? Mentorship? A clear path for advancement? If the role comes with a chance to stretch their skills and make an impact, make sure that’s front and center.
Simplify the Application Process
Make the application process as painless as possible. Spell out exactly what you want from candidates—whether it’s just a resume or additional materials like a cover letter or portfolio. Keep the instructions clear and straightforward. A complicated or vague process can discourage even the most enthusiastic applicants.
Conclusion: Your Job Description as a First Impression
At the end of the day, a great job description is more than just a list of duties and qualifications. It’s a chance to tell your company’s story, set realistic expectations, and attract candidates who are genuinely excited about the opportunity. Need help crafting job descriptions that stand out? At Peopleish, we specialize in helping small businesses find their perfect match—without the headache. Let’s make your next hire your best hire.
