How to Write Job Advertisements to Attract Top Talent


Do you want to learn how to effectively write job advertisements to attract the best talent for your company?

A thoughtfully written job advertisement serves as the first point of contact between your organisation and potential candidates. This makes the development of your job advert a crucial opportunity to showcase your company’s values and culture while promoting exciting opportunities and attracting prospective employees.

The numbers of people at work are currently at exceptionally high levels creating a challenging talent market for recruiters. Recent figures from the Central Statistics Office show that the unemployment rate in Ireland is now at 4.8% with the economy at or very close to full employment. This is significant for recruiters who have a smaller pool of talent to choose from meaning it’s more important than ever before to consider all elements involved in the job application process. Developing an enticing job advert is where the journey begins for potential candidates. Getting this right will help businesses to continue to attract the best talent for their business in a challenging and competitive job market.

Present the perfect job title

The job title is likely the first thing that the jobseeker sees, so they need to know immediately that the role applies to them. As tempting as it may be to ‘jazz’ up your job title, you’re better off keeping it clear and simple.

Our best-in-class technology matches relevant candidates to the advertised job, utilising the job title. On Jobs.ie, our software will auto-suggest the best job title for a role but employers are free to use a job title of their choice. So, by using a normal title, you will reach a bigger and more relevant audience while also driving more applications.

Here are our tips for creating the best job title:

  1. Use a clear, specific job title i.e., Sales Executive.
  2. Do not add unnecessary text i.e., terrific.
  3. Avoid multiple roles/levels i.e., Junior Sales Executive or Senior Sales Executive.
  4. Avoid unusual titles i.e., Sales Ninja.

Structure an attractive job advert

Utilising inclusive language is paramount as it creates a welcoming environment and avoids bias and discriminatory language, providing opportunities for everyone who views your advert.

Listing key responsibilities in the job advertisement is essential for setting the candidate’s expectations and attracting the most suitable individuals.

Detailing experience and qualifications required to find potential candidates. Include the essential qualities over the “nice to have” ones.

Highlighting growth opportunities in the job advert showcases the company’s commitment to employee development and career advancement.

Emphasising career prospects within the organisation, along with mentioning training programs, mentorship initiatives, and possibilities for growth, entices ambitious candidates seeking long-term professional growth.

Provide necessary details about the job

Roles and Responsibilities: Understanding the specific responsibilities associated with a new job position is very important for prospective jobseekers when they consider applying for the job. When developing the job advert, the recruiter must be well versed about the exact qualifications and skills needed in a potential candidate.

Location: Jobseekers want to know exactly where they will be based. Our data shows that 7 out of 10 jobseekers use location in their job search, and a larger proportion of these go on to apply for the role.

Salary: By including the salary offering in your job advert, you will increase interest and quality of applications. Adding salary information encourages applications from relevant, engaged candidates who are making an informed career choice when applying. In this year’s Universum Talent Research for Professionals in 2023, competitive base salary is ranked the number one preference among professionals and has remained the top preference for the last three years.

About Us: It’s important to emphasise what makes your company stand out as an employer. Be specific and describe your work culture. Is there something rare/unique about your business that a prospective employee will be a part of and should know? What could their career with you look like for them and why should they work for you? You need to sell your company as an employer in the same way you would a product or service.

Outline compensation and benefits

Jobseekers today appreciate it when they can see the full picture of offerings from their prospective employer.

Providing a salary range and the company’s benefits package helps candidates assess if the opportunity aligns with their expectations and needs. For example, offering employees within the retail and hospitality industry a staff discount on their products or services is a common perk that is appealing to jobseekers.

A comprehensive overview of the compensation and benefits on offer demonstrates the organisation’s commitment to its employees’ well-being and satisfaction, promoting a positive employer brand and increasing the likelihood of attracting qualified and motivated candidates.

Create a seamless application process

Ensuring a digitally prepared and mobile-friendly job advert is presented to the jobseeker with a clear layout and engaging job title will make all the difference when receiving applications.

Since the beginning of 2023, 46% of job applications have been received via smartphone on Jobs.ie compared to desktop (32%), native app (21%), and tablet (<1%). Ensuring a digitally prepared and mobile-friendly job advertisement is presented to the jobseeker with a clear layout and engaging job title will make all the difference when receiving applications.

Also, clearly stating the application process within the advertisement helps candidates understand the steps they need to take to successfully apply. Including information about required documents, such as CVs, cover letters, or portfolios, ensures that candidates submit comprehensive applications, enabling recruiters to make informed decisions.

Mastering the intricacies of crafting a compelling job advertisement that stands out to jobseekers is a crucial skill to have as a recruiter and what will set you apart from the crowd. It’s not just about finding talent; it’s about creating a stellar first impression. Your job ad is a sampler of your company culture and the exciting opportunities you offer. In a job market with endless choices for jobseekers, make your offering the one that stands out and attracts, guiding potential candidates towards a career with you.

Ensure your job adverts radiate with clarity, appeal, and the distinctive essence of your company. In the initial phase of the recruitment journey, making a lasting impression is crucial.