How to Develop Employment Advertisements

Before the job interview, attract the best candidates with effective employment advertising.

When your company is looking to hire more employees, one way to attract the right candidates is to create advertisements that promote the open position(s). These advertisements can be printed in local newspapers or other publications, as well as posted online at a variety of job sites and online classified ad sites. Employment advertisements should appeal to the right candidates and provide enough information for someone to determine whether they're qualified for the job.

Instructions

1. Determine the job title for the available position. Discuss the qualifications of the ideal candidate with the person who'll manage or supervise the new employee. Write down all the desired qualifications.

2. Write a brief headline for the ad that attracts people's attention. One example of an attention-grabbing headline is, "Wanted: Customer Support Specialist -- great pay, benefits and work environment." This headline lets the readers know what the position is, and attracts their attention with incentives such as good salary and benefits. It's also slightly playful with the "wanted" word that refers to Old West "wanted" signs.

3. Write a description of the position's high level job duties and ideal qualifications. Depending on where your ad will run, you might be limited in how many words you can use. Use "you" whenever possible so readers begin to envision themselves working for your company. If space permits, mention the job's classification, such as part-time, full-time or contract work.

4. List your company's industry, the business name, your website and the career level desired, such as "entry level" or "senior." List the desired start date as well, and add the end date if the position is temporary.

5. Describe how to apply for the job. For example, you might say, "email your resume and cover letter" to a specific email address, or have applicants call your office, or visit your website to apply online.

Tips & Warnings

• Online employment advertising is free on some websites, so take advantage of posting jobs online. To reach the most candidates, post the employment advertisement both online and in print publications.

References

• Appeal Democrat: Create an Employment Ad
• HR; How to Create an Effective Online Employment Ad; December 2000