Writing a good job description to attract matching candidates

Writing a good job description to attract matching candidates

Once a need is felt to hire or augment a team, there’s pressure to recruit immediately. This often leads Managers to write job descriptions in a rush. They tend to write generic statements based on a template, and at best specify some skills and years of experience.

The pitfall is that these general descriptions don’t give a clear picture of the must-haves and/or soft attributes of the job.

Here are some tips to write job descriptions that are fairly specific and sell the opportunity to candidates. It can also help candidates ascertain whether they are a match for the role.

Analyze previously successful candidates in this role and list 3 to 5 key responsibilities that the person has to perform on a daily basis. Consider various factors to analyze the role such as: knowledge required, degree of autonomy, crucial issues/ problems to be solved.

Next, list 3 to 5 mandatory hard-skills that the candidate must-have in order to qualify for this opportunity.

Then, list 2 to 3 soft-attributes which are required to be successful in this role. Choose from traits such as: quick learning ability, attitude, work ethics, team adaptability, innovative thinking, customer service, communication skills, social aptitude etc. These are unique behavioral factors based on the job type, organizational culture, team dynamics, department structure, market situation etc.

Next, in order to attract applicants give a glimpse of the growth path for this role, possibility to be involved in engaging projects; and added perks to be earned based on performance.

Lastly, write a few self-assessment criteria/ questions for the candidate to self-evaluate whether this is a matching opportunity for them.