How to Write a Job Description That Actually Works: The Art of Getting It Right from the Start
Let’s be honest—when it’s time to bring someone new into the fold, there’s a little more to it than tossing up a quick post and hoping for magic. Whether you’re partnering with a recruiter or handling things in-house, nailing down what you need on paper is the first—and often most overlooked—step.
Starting with a blank slate might seem intimidating (and, yes, a bit of a time-suck). But if you want to attract people who are not just qualified but actually get your business, it’s worth the effort. Your job description is your handshake moment. Are you showing up prepared, intentional, and sure of who you are? Or does it feel like you wrote it between emails and lunch?
The most compelling job descriptions we’ve seen have a few things in common: they’re straightforward, state expectations upfront, and showcase what makes the company unique (yep, that means a clear intro and a little personality, not just a wall of requirements).
If you want to create a template you’ll use, focus on these basics:
Company Overview: Who are you? What’s your story?
Position Summary: Paint the picture of what this role looks like day to day and what you expect from someone joining the team in this capacity.
Key Duties/Responsibilities/ Expectations: List these in order of importance, not alphabetically.
Must-Haves/Requirements: Both technical know-how and those soft skills you really value.
Work Set-Up & Perks: Where’s the office? Hybrid? Remote? (People care!) What’s in it for them?
Example Format:
Company logo:
Position Title (be clear and to the point):
Job Location: ( Onsite 5 days a week? Hybrid: Tuesday / Thursday)
Reports to:
# and Title of Direct Reports:
About the business:
Position Overview: Tasks, Responsibilities & Expectations
Requirements/Skillset: (a must-have list e.g. technical, software, degree qualifications, experience level, soft skills)
Work Structure/Offer: (Remote/Hybrid expectations, travel requirements, benefits)
Now you have your skeleton
Filling in the details becomes easier (and, dare I say, a little fun). Think about what will make the right candidate sit up and say, “This is me!”—then make sure your list of responsibilities is realistic and readable (bullet points are your friend).
And don’t forget: Sell your team! Candidates want to know why your company is a place worth joining.
List the benefits, talk up the culture, and keep your tone true to your brand.
It doesn’t need to be War and Peace. Aim for clear, simple, and consistent—and you’ll have a job description that does more than just check the boxes.
