It’s not always easy to figure out what candidates really want…
But when you’re writing a job ad, simply covering the basics might not be enough to attract a good quality of applicant – something which could mean missing out on finding your perfect match.
Our own research and insights indicate that the most effective ads are more than a simple job description. And much of it comes down to articulating what really sets your company apart.
What do candidates want from employers? To make sure your ads are attracting the best candidates, here are five things every candidate wants:
Company culture
For many jobseekers, finding an organisation with the right cultural fit is essential.
Aside from ensuring factors like work environment and management style match their needs – they also want to know that the business they’re applying to work for is a reputable brand with good values and social responsibility.
Our research has shown that millennials in particular cite a commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) as one of the biggest reasons they’ll work for a company.
Without giving a clear indication in your job advert of what it’s really like to work for your company, you’re making it harder for candidates to gauge their suitability.
Career prospects
When it comes to finding the right role, career prospects will always be important.
In fact, if a job advert clearly states the possibility of long-term progression, candidates are far more likely to consider it. And that doesn’t just refer to promotion opportunities – they also want to know there are ways to develop their skills through training and development.
After all, no one wants their career to stand still.
So whether it’s helping to fund a qualification, running workshops, or offering secondments, there are many ways to promote employee wellbeing and job satisfaction through learning and growth.
Not only will providing these opportunities improve the amount of interest your vacancy receives, it’ll also mean those who are employed are more likely to stay.
An attractive salary
Let’s face it, money matters.
In fact, across all age and experience levels, salary averages out as the highest priority for those looking for a new role.
Because although it’s not the only thing people look for in a job, it’s almost always the first thing. Providing details of the salary packages on offer in your organisation will help prospective employees build a picture of their suitability for the job.
And with two in three jobseekers being more likely to apply when a salary is displayed, it’s pretty much a no-brainer.
Why you should always state salary in your job ads
Flexibility (work-life balance)
Not only do the majority of jobseekers strive for the right work-life balance, they also want an employer who understands its importance – and respects their employees’ need to have a life outside of work.
This, as well as a role in a convenient location, will allow your potential employees to benefit from improved morale – not to mention a greater level of motivation when it comes to their workload.
So to reach the right applicants, focus on giving them what they want. Whether it’s by providing details of options to work remotely, or opening up the option of flexible working hours, be sure to include the right information in your ad.
Good benefits
For in-demand candidates, attractive benefits can act as a key deciding factor when choosing a job.
Whether it’s a generous pension, a good healthcare scheme, or a substantial holiday allowance – benefits like these could be just the thing that sets you apart from other employers.
Company perks are also becoming more and more prevalent in many industries – with things like workplace recreational activities (e.g. ping pong tables, arcade games), in-house gyms, and healthy food initiatives often on the forefront of jobseekers’ minds.
So if you’ve got methods in place to boost employee wellbeing – even if it’s ‘just’ a pension, discount scheme or anything else – shout about them in your job ads.
Ready to start hiring?
