Lack of clarity on the job advert. Unrealistic expectations of a ‘rockstar’. No transparency or understanding of when they might hear back, if at all. These are just some of the frustrations we’ve heard over the years from people when applying for jobs online. Here are six handy tips to help make the process more effective and enjoyable for all.
The job market is competitive with hundreds of thousands of live jobs being advertised (over 700,000 in the UK, the last time we checked). This means getting your advert noticed can sometimes feel like shouting into a crowded room.
Most importantly your advert is the first impression a potential employee gets of your company - make it count. In a perfect world, it should be a magnet that excites and pulls relevant, great people in.
It’s crucial to remember a job advert is different from a job description. In a rush to start the recruitment process quickly we can fall foul of just posting a dry job description. We've all been there. You copy and paste that description, hit post, and… tumbleweed.
Recruiting for over 13 years now we were guilty of this until completing Mitch Sullivan’s Copywriting for Recruiters Course. It was a real turning point for us - a game changer. For any company wanting to improve job adverts we would highly recommend this. Since taking the course all positions recruited have been filled from advert response, that's the power of a great advert.
TIP 99 (JUST KIDDING!)
Salary, to disclose or not is always a heated topic.
Let's be honest, with the cost of living rollercoaster, salary is a major factor. Share a salary range or even the exact figure. Pay transparency will always be your secret weapon to a larger pool of relevant people. As a byproduct you will receive less unsuitable applications, saving time on your recruitment process, it’s a win win!
TIP TWO
Think "What's In It For Me?" (WIIFM).
Step into the shoes of the person job searching and speak their language.
Why might they be looking? What’s going to make them think this opportunity is right for them, or better than the role they are currently in?
If they're already employed, you’ve got to paint a clear picture of why your role and company are worth considering. That could be training, career progression, flexible working arrangements, or that sweet work-life balance. This is your chance to highlight what sets your position and company apart.
TIP THREE
Keep it short and sweet.
With people’s attention being pulled every which way in our modern day lifestyles, you need to make it easy to digest.
Bullet points, shorter paragraphs…remember, your potential person is probably juggling many things. Make it easy to scan and understand.
TIP FOUR
Focus on essential skills only.
People don’t need to know about nice-to-haves, just include the essentials. Long lists can be a deterrent. Research highlights that people often feel they need to possess every skill you list to apply - meaning you could lose a great applicant over something non-essential, if you’re not careful. Focus on the must-haves for the role and create a more inclusive hiring environment.
TIP FIVE
Give people a taste of your company, a peek behind the scenes if you will.
Showcase your company culture, mission, perks, the great team they'll be joining, even a quote from the hiring manager. Remember the WIIFM? Now's your chance to sell it!
We’ve also noticed companies including a quote on the advert from the hiring manager which really stands out. It gives the advert a nice personal touch and a sense of the person they’ll be working with.
TIP SIX
Nobody likes the application black hole!
Clearly outline how to apply, next steps in the process, and even a potential timeline. It's all about respect and showing you value their time. Remember, you want them just as much as they might want you!
These are just a few tips to get you started - if you’d like to get into more detail, drop us a message: hello@findyourpop.com. We’re always happy to chat.
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