Writing a compelling job description is essential to help you attract the most qualified candidates for your job. Your job description is where you start promoting your company and position to prospective employees.

The key to writing compelling job descriptions is finding the perfect balance between providing enough detail so that candidates understand the role and your company while keeping the description concise.

Use the tips and examples of job descriptions below to put together an attractive job listing.

What is a job description?

A job description summarizes a position’s primary duties, activities, qualifications, and skills. This document, also known as a JD, describes the type of work performed.

The job description should include essential details about the company’s mission, culture, and any benefits it provides to employees. It may also include who the position reports to and the salary range.

An adequate job description will provide candidates with enough detail to determine if they are a good fit for the position.

Job Title

Make your job titles specific

Targeted job titles are more effective than generic ones, so be precise by including key phrases that accurately describe the role.

Avoid inside jargon that can confuse the job seeker

Stick to standard experience levels, such as “Senior” rather than “VI” or other terms people are unlikely to look for. Your job description language should be as inclusive as possible. Consider reviewing your finished job description and any language that might be exclusionary for any groups of people considering it.

Job Summary

Start with a robust and eye-catching resume

Your resume should provide an overview of your company and expectations for the position.

Snag the reader with details about what makes your company unique

Your job description is an introduction to your company and your employer brand. Include details about your company culture to summarize why the candidate would want to work for you.

Specify your exact job location

Specify your same job location to optimize your job listing so that it appears higher in job search results.

Responsibilities and Duties

State the primary responsibilities of the position

Make sure your list of responsibilities is detailed but concise. Also, emphasize responsibilities that may be unique to your organization. For example, if you are hiring for an “Event Management” position and the position requires social media experience to promote events, include this information, so candidates understand the requirements and can determine if they qualify.

Highlight the day-to-day activities of the position

This will help candidates understand the work environment and the actions they will be exposed to daily. This level of detail will help the candidate determine if the position and company are correct for them and will help you attract the best candidates for your job.

Specify how the position fits into the organization

Specify who the job reports to and how that person will work in your organization, helping candidates see the bigger picture and understand how the role affects the business.

Qualifications and Skills

Include a list of hard and soft skills

Of course, the job description should include education, previous work experience, certifications, and technical skills required for the position.
You can also have soft skills, such as communication, problem-solving, and personality traits. Traits you anticipate for a successful hire.

Keep your list short

While you may be tempted to list all the requirements you envision for your ideal employee, too many qualifications and skills may dissuade potential candidates.

That’s why it’s essential to identify mandatory and valuable skills and qualifications for the role to encourage more diverse candidates to apply. 71% of employers surveyed said they already do.

Salary and benefits

Include a salary range

Quality candidates are looking for opportunities that match their salary needs.

List your top benefits and perks

What’s in it for the candidate? Most job seekers (83%) agree that company benefits and perks significantly impact their decision about whether to accept a job offer there. Get more people to apply by telling them about the attractive rewards and benefits you offer your employees, such as:

• Flexible hours
• Medical, dental, and eye insurance
• Office snacks
• Tuition reimbursement