Writing a job ad can be a long and tiresome process – but what’s even worse is when your ad doesn’t achieve the results intended, and you can’t find any suitable candidates as a result. If this is you, or if you’re in the process of writing a job ad, read on to learn about some of the common mistakes when writing ads and how you can avoid them!

So, why is no one applying to your job ad?

Your job ad may perfectly cover the requirements and duties of the position to you and to others within your organisation – but that may be the problem!

If you’re using terms that are unique to your organisation or industry, those who aren’t within it might not know what you’re talking about! This is particularly important when it comes to the title of the position. Without a commonly known job title, your ad may fail to appear in the search results of your desired candidate.

Try to: Use terms commonly used to ensure that potential applicants know what you’re looking for and can quickly assess whether they may be a good fit.

A couple of sentences about what the position *might* involve often won’t give applicants enough information to evaluate whether the role or the organisation is a great option for them.

Make sure to: Include information about what your organisation does, what their day to day responsibilities will be, what experience your ideal candidate possesses, as well as desired qualities attributes and qualifications.

Do you have a clear idea of what you require in the position? Make sure you know what you need from the role and ensure that your ad communicates this. This enables applicants to quickly assess whether the role is a good fit for them.

Job ads that are ‘wishy washy’ or lack clarity and direction are off-putting to applicants. When a candidate cannot easily decipher what is required in a position and what they can expect day to day, they won’t feel confident in their ability to be successful in the role, so are likely to skip it and move on to the next one.

Try instead: Communicate the day to day tasks, desired skills, experience, and abilities clearly and concisely in the ad.

Writing a job ad isn’t anyone’s favourite task, but if you put a bit of extra time and effort into it – you might just find that perfect candidate!

Want more tips to ensure a successful recruitment process? Check out this blog:

Why is no one applying to my job ad?

Mansfield & Co Recruitment