We may think of how to build the best resume, but what about the opposite end of the spectrum in attracting the perfect candidate? The same rules apply in crafting words that draw in the best – and those most capable. Here are some key elements in writing a job specification that attracts candidates.
Communicate Responsibilities
There’s a right and wrong way to tell candidates about your open roles. Many companies use the same formula that everyone sees…duties, responsibilities, qualifications etc. The problem with this is that it gets so familiar that people don’t really read it.
Instead, think about what a day in the life working in this role will look like and communicate that properly. Don’t use the same, tired phrases like “assists with administrative duties” or the like. Spell it out and make it enticing.
Flesh out the details, too. While you may assume everyone knows what an Administrative Assistant or an IT Help Desk Assistant may do, a concise, clear message ensures there are no questions about what the job entails.
Communicate 6-12 Month Goals
What is it you want this candidate to accomplish as an employee? Day-to-day responsibilities are important to communicate. Yet, sharing the long-term goals are important in attracting the most capable candidates.
Showing what happens with a future in the company is important as well. This shows the candidate you are invested in their long-term future. It also allows them to set goals and envision what their role is as part of your company.
Communicate ‘What’s in it’ for the Candidate
Think about why someone would want to work in this role. Why they want to work in this specific department or on a particular project. Why do they want to work for this management team or even work for the company itself?
Example: If your key selling point for the role is cutting edge technology, and you need someone who works independent and knows how to collaborate, that is a different person than someone who wants a stable schedule and productively churns out product. One is entrepreneurial and loves the challenge of creating. One seeks stability and is challenged by producing to meet an objective output. The entrepreneur is creative, and understands the ups and downs of the process. The secure person wants to produce and work toward a more efficient process, so they can produce more with less time.
The Takeaways
Your job specification needs to communicate those ideas with great clarity, so you target and identify the right person with the right skills. And one whose vision for the role is aligned with your needs.
For the entrepreneur, focus on cutting edge technology, working with leaders in the industry, and creating something innovative. For the stable person, focus on the stability of the company/role and where you want the person in the role to take the productivity levels.
In short the best job descriptions require you to be precise, skip the buzzwords, be transparent, and know your ideal candidate.
About Synergy
Synergy Solutions is an executive and contract search firm focused on roles within the technology sector. If you have questions regarding this article or would like to discuss strategy on open roles at your company, please contact us and someone will get back to you within the next 24 hours.
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