Job descriptions are often a candidate’s first interaction with your company. A well-crafted job post not only communicates expectations but also serves as a key marketing tool to draw in top-tier candidates.
Pulling direct language from the SOW is so five years ago.
How to Write Job Descriptions That Attract Top Talent
Here are the essential elements of a great job description—and tips to make yours stand out.
1. Start with a Compelling Job Title
Your job title should be clear, specific, and searchable. Avoid jargon or internal titles that candidates won’t understand. For example, use “Marketing Manager” instead of “Brand Evangelist.” If you’re hiring for a Data Scientist but the SOW calls it a Software Engineer, tag up with the team to choose which title makes most sense.
2. Open with a Strong, Engaging Summary
The first few sentences should hook the reader. Describe what makes the role exciting, how it contributes to the company’s mission, and why someone would want to join your team.
3. Highlight What Makes Your Company Unique
Include a short section about your company’s culture, values, and perks. What makes working for your organization different from competitors?
4. Be Clear and Concise About Responsibilities
Outline the key responsibilities in bullet points. Be specific but avoid overwhelming detail. Candidates should quickly understand what the role entails day to day.
5. Focus on Must-Have Qualifications (and Be Realistic)
Separate must-have skills from nice-to-have traits. Avoid listing excessive requirements that could deter qualified applicants, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds.
6. Use Inclusive Language
Avoid gender-coded or biased terms. Use tools like Textio or the Gender Decoder to ensure your language welcomes all candidates.
7. Show the Growth Opportunity
Top candidates want to know where the role could lead. Highlight career paths, learning and development resources, or the potential to work on impactful projects.
8. Optimize for Searchability
Incorporate relevant keywords that candidates are likely to search for. This helps your post appear on job boards and search engines.
9. Include a Transparent Salary Range
Where possible, include compensation details. Transparency builds trust and attracts candidates who are aligned with your offering.
10. End with a Clear Call to Action
Tell candidates exactly what to do next—”Apply now,” “Submit your resume and cover letter,” or “Contact our recruiter for more info.”
Creating a decent job description in the GovCon space requires recruiters to research and fully communicate with their hiring managers so they understand what kind of candidate they are seeking.
A standout job description does more than list tasks; it sells the opportunity. By writing with clarity, inclusivity, and intent, you can attract top talent who are excited not just about the role, but about your company as a whole.
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