In a competitive job market, attracting top talent starts with a compelling job specification. A well-crafted job spec not only communicates the requirements of the role, but also showcases your company as an exciting and desirable place to work. Here are some essential tips to ensure your job spec stands out and draws in top talent.
Put yourself in the candidates’ shoes
What would they want to see? When crafting a job spec, you should think like a candidate. Rather than presenting a long list of demands, consider what would make the role appealing to potential candidates. Highlight not just the job responsibilities, but also what the candidate stands to gain by joining your company. What sets your workplace apart? Put yourself in the candidate’s position and ask, “What makes this a role I would apply for?
Include an exciting company overview
Don’t underestimate the power of an engaging company overview. Why is your company the best place for the right candidate to work? Don’t just trot out the same old company benefits, explain what makes your company a great place to work! Highlight your company culture, values, and any special perks or initiatives that set you apart from the competition. Think outside the box about what unique things you can offer a potential employee.
You could even ask your existing team what they like about working for the company and what they think the company’s unique selling point as an employer is. You never know, they might think of something you hadn’t considered.
Put some personality in it!!
Most job descriptions look very similar when put next to each other, so stand out by putting some personality in there. Consider sharing the company’s culture and values in a way that resonates with potential candidates. We work with a brilliant client that writes genuinely funny job specs and it works!! Bear in mind, it needs to be professional and not a comedy script though!
Keep job specs brief but engaging
Some job descriptions are way too long and can end up being overwhelming for the candidate!! Clearly distinguish between essential and beneficial criteria, ensuring that the role’s requirements are communicated in clear, concise language. Nothing says “this is a dull place to work” like a 5 page job spec!
Differentiate between essential and beneficial criteria
When listing key skills, differentiate between truly essential skills (literally, without these, they cannot do the job) and desirable skills. Research has proven that female candidates are more likely to only apply when they meet ALL of the criteria – you could be harming your diversity by using long ambiguous lists of skills! By clearly defining the necessary skills, you can enhance diversity and attract a broader range of applicants.
Clarify the company’s mission and impact
Who and what a company does has never been more important to job seekers, especially for roles that appear similar on paper. Candidates have different reasons for choosing between companies, but if you don’t tell them about yours then they cannot make an informed decision, and might ultimately choose an alternative role. Articulate the company’s mission, vision, and the impact it seeks to create in its industry or community. Communicate the broader purpose and significance of the company’s work to inspire candidates and convey the meaningful contributions they can make by joining your organisation.
Emphasise work-life balance and well-being initiatives
In a post-covid world, work-life balance is more important to candidates than ever. Communicate the company’s dedication to promoting work-life balance and well-being through specific initiatives, flexible work arrangements, benefits packages or wellness programs. Highlighting the company’s support for employees’ overall well-being can appeal to candidates seeking a supportive and healthy work environment.
Highlight your full benefits package
The benefits section of a job spec is all too often just a few lines at the end. But it’s a powerful tool to attract candidates to your business. We’ve left it to last here, but it should be one of the first things you include on your job spec. Make sure you list EVERYTHING, no matter how small, that could be considered a benefit. Free on-site parking? That can save someone well over £1,000 per year after tax so it’s definitely a benefit. If you offer hybrid working then always qualify what that actually means (ie how many days they’d be expected to visit the office per week or month)
Crafting a job spec that attracts the right candidates requires thoughtful consideration from the candidate’s perspective and a touch of personality to make you stand out. By implementing these tips, you can create a job spec that not only attracts a diverse pool of candidates but also communicates the unique appeal of your company and the role.
Looking for more tips like these?
To help our clients maximise their chances of finding, securing and successfully onboarding in their next hire we’ve put together a range of hints and tips about every stage in the recruitment process. You can get your copy of the free white paper here;