Power Tools & Tips For Workplace Leaders


Finding the Perfect Candidate:

Why Job Descriptions Are Important To The Process


When it comes to job postings, the search process can be a little overwhelming. Applicants today are faced with creative, wordy descriptions of companies looking for motivated individuals who can “hit the ground running” in an “exciting and fast-paced environment.” The problem is, job-seekers don’t know what that means.

And you might think a creative post will stand out and draw candidates in, but usually the opposite happens. Job-seekers want a clear picture of what their day-to-day will look like, not a good story. Here are four tips for writing clearer job descriptions that will help your company attract the right applicants.
#1
Pick a Job Title that Makes Sense

Your company might use creative job titles, but the typical candidate is searching for very straightforward ones. If you call your IT Manager a Chief Technical Problem Solver, it could not only confuse a candidate, but they could miss the posting altogether. Use a job title that would make sense to everyone.
#2
Paint an Accurate Picture of the Day-to-Day Duties

A lot of job postings focus on what the candidate will have to produce, but not what’s involved in producing it. Job-seekers want to know what the end goal is, but they also want to know what their day-to-day will look like while working toward that goal.
#3
Describe What the Perks Look Like

Many descriptions have generic statements like “flexible schedules” and “great benefits.” But what do these mean? And what specific jobs do they apply to? Most roles at the company may be eligible for flexible hours, but if the position you’re posting about requires someone to have rigid hours, don’t advertise flexible schedules as a company perk. If a certain benefit doesn’t apply to every position, don’t talk about it. And even if flexible hours do apply to the position, are there any exceptions? Is there a busy season where the employee will have set hours? Let them know.
#4
Do Not Forget About the Legal Side

Make sure your job description complies with any federal or local laws. Be careful with any wording that could seem discriminatory. If you say you’re looking for someone “young and energetic,” that could be considered discrimination against older applicants. Include all essential job functions, especially if there are physical tasks, like lifting or climbing. This is important for ADA purposes. If a job function isn’t listed in the description, you’ll have a hard time arguing that it’s essential. And remember, honesty is key.
Could you use some help refining your hiring process?

Contact Alternative HR today at 605.335.8198! We can help you create engaging job descriptions that will go a long way to help you attract the talent you need to grow and sustain your company, putting you ahead of the competition!
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