9 mistakes you should avoid in job advertisements

The click on your job posting is often the first point of contact between your company and potential candidates. In the competition for qualified professionals, writing a compelling job advertisement is therefore crucial. Our recruiting experts summarize in this article the 9 most common mistakes you should avoid in your job postings. 

1. Vague or Unknown Job Titles  

Job titles like "Senior Developer" or "Marketing Guru" may sound hip, but they are unclear and can be confusing for job seekers. Overly specific or foreign language job titles can also be off-putting, as they often overwhelm job seekers. Therefore, stick to standardized industry titles and avoid complicated terms in your job titles. 

2. Unrealistic Requirements

Stay realistic when seeking talent. Because a list of must-have qualifications that seems more like a wish list can intimidate potential applicants and deter even qualified candidates from applying. Therefore, focus on the essential skills and remain open to candidates with diverse experiences and transferable skills that would also be valuable for the position. 

3. Too Much Industry Jargon

 Speak clearly, not in riddles. Overloading your job advertisement with industry-specific jargon can deter job seekers and prevent the network from forwarding the job to suitable candidates because they do not understand the content. Therefore, use simple and inclusive language, so it is understandable for all potential applicants and interested parties. 

4. Hidden Salary Range

Don't play hide and seek with salary. Omitting a salary range can waste both the employer's and the applicant's time. Transparency about compensation can filter candidates and align expectations from the start. If you have little wiggle room regarding salary, including this information is particularly beneficial.  

5. Overwhelming Task Lists

A long list of tasks can be intimidating. Instead, highlight the key responsibilities that summarize the role well. This allows candidates to recognize their potential impact on the company and assess their responsibilities without being overwhelmed. 

6. Boring Descriptions

Bland descriptions can not only negatively reflect the character of your company culture but also bore potential applicants. Because job advertisements are an opportunity not only to communicate the position's requirements but also the unique aspects of your company. Bring personality into your ads, to stand out from other employers, and show candidates what makes your company unique. Emphasize your company values, working atmosphere, team activities, development opportunities, and other aspects that shape your culture. This way, you can not only capture applicants' attention but also ensure you attract candidates who fit well with your company's culture.  

7. Inflexible Working Conditions

With the rise of remote work and flexible working hours, demonstrating adaptability can be a big plus for potential applicants. Nowadays, many candidates would not even apply for a position that does not offer these benefits. So avoid rigid demands regarding working hours or location to ensure you do not miss out on qualified talent. 

8. Complicated Application Processes

A complicated application process can indeed be the biggest hurdle for potential candidates, preventing them from submitting their application. To optimize this process and massively improve the candidate experience, aim for a user-friendly application experience. Ensure that your online application portal is easy to navigate and do not request too many or time-consuming documents. Portals requiring applicants to register are also a major hurdle. The best option is for candidates to apply directly with their LinkedIn profile without a cover letter! See what that might look like here.

9. Empty Slogans

Phrases like "Work hard, play hard," "Jack of all trades," or "Beyond the 9-5 mentality" are often used in job advertisements but can repel many applicants. Studies show that such expressions are often perceived as annoying and artificial, and can convey a negative image. For example, the expression "Beyond the 9-5 mentality" evokes associations of regular overtime and weekend work. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid such clichés and instead use clear, authentic language that precisely presents the actual requirements and benefits of the position. 

Conclusion

Crafting an effective job advertisement is crucial to successfully attracting and winning qualified professionals for your company. By avoiding the mentioned mistakes, you can ensure that you do not lose any talent due to a suboptimal job posting. 

Find more tips on this topic here: How to Convince Applicants with Your Job Advertisement