How do I write a job description?

What makes a great job description, what should you put in it?

It is important to take time completing this section, we find that the better the job description is, the better matched the candidate who applies for the role is.  Great job descriptions leads to great candidates.  Simplicity and clarity is important, avoid jargon and use inviting language. Convey the culture of your company, candidates need to know if you will be a good fit for them and that they will enjoy working for you. Avoid gender in your language, neutral wording is best, you don't want to exclude half your potential candidate pool.

In our Job description form we give you a structure you should consider following, but ultimately you have control to enter what you would like. It's also a good idea to to ask your current employees to read through the description, this can help fine tune what you have.

Finally take some time to get the formatting right, use bullet points when needed, Bold text the important parts etc.


We recommend that each Job description should have

Job Summary

Give a short engaging summary about the job. Highlight who you are looking for and why the job is important.  Use warm inviting language that represents your brand, e.g. "We are looking for ..", "Come join our dedicated team ..".  Consider also adding a paragraph about your company; your values your culture - be authentic.

Responsibilities

Let the candidate know what they will be doing. Use simple sentences. Bullet points can help. Try and ensure that you include the top 5 things that will be expected of candidates in the role.

Requirements

Again more simple language here, bullet points help. Be honest as to what you are looking for be it qualifications or past experience. Think about the requirements needed as either 'Must have' or 'Nice to have' headings.

Benefits

Mention the perks and benefits of working with your company. These might include; on the job training, tips, overtime pay, health insurance, pension contributions, life insurance, commuter tickets, working from home, mentorship, etc.



You may also wish to include other details such as :



Time; What time frame you need candidates to work; are they needed at weekends, are they needed for flexible shifts etc.

Location; Do you have a number of sites, are they expected to work in different locations, can their work be done remotely?

Working conditions; Are there any physical requirements for the role, what is the dress code, etc.