Transform your stubborn job posting into a candidate magnet

Frustrated by a job posting that’s not attracting the right candidates? You’re not alone. Most job postings convert less than 10% of viewers into applicants. But here’s the good news: you can dramatically improve your results by thinking like an advertiser rather than a hiring manager.

The first step is to stop thinking of your job posting as a list of requirements – or just posting the full job description. Instead, treat it as a compelling advertisement for your opportunity. Your goal isn’t to document every detail of the role – it’s to spark interest from talented people who could thrive in the position.

Start by putting your most impressive offerings front and center. Whether it’s exceptional compensation, cutting-edge technology, or the chance to make a significant impact, lead with what makes your opportunity special. Top candidates often make quick decisions about whether to keep reading, so don’t bury your best-selling points.

Next, speak the language of your ideal candidates. Use the job titles and terms they search for, not just your internal terminology. A quick chat with your current top performers can reveal the exact words that will help your posting get found.

Focus your content on what actually drives applications: the impact they can make, the technologies they’ll work with, and the growth opportunities ahead. Skip the obvious day-to-day duties that any qualified candidate already knows. Instead, paint a picture of why this role matters and how it could advance their career.

Finally, ask your best employees to review the posting. What catches their eye? What would make them want to apply? Their feedback is golden – use it to refine your message until it truly resonates with the talent you want to attract.

Remember, your job posting is often a candidate’s first impression of your company. Make it count by creating content that speaks directly to the ambitious, talented people you want to meet.