What to include in a job description

We know exactly what job seekers are looking for in a job description. How? Because we asked them! We’ve listened to millions of job seekers and compiled a list of what they’re searching for when they click on your job post.

Here are the top six items to include in your job description:

• Pay range
• Benefits
• Shift info
• Location (or remote)
• Required qualifications
• Type of job: full-time or part-time

 

Think like a job seeker

At Indeed, we know job seekers. And we can help you think like a job seeker so your job post really speaks to them.

In general, the average job seeker is short on time. They’re looking for jobs on their breaks and after dinner. The simpler and easier to read you can make your job post, the more likely you are to attract the right candidates.

Here are a few best practices to follow:

• Break up text into bite-size 3–4-sentence paragraphs
• Keep your vocabulary simple enough for anyone to understand
• Use lists (bullet points) to make info easy to scan

 

Writing a job title

A great job title is one that a job seeker would search for. It should be a straightforward, industry-standard term.

For example, “Customer Service Representative” is a common job title for someone who answers customer questions. While you might be tempted to use a more eye-catching job title like “Phone Answering Superstar,” job seekers just aren’t searching for that term on Indeed.

Instead, stick to job titles that job seekers will find. When you stick to standard job titles, you’ll be more likely to reach more quality candidates.

Writing a job description

Candidates often respond best to job descriptions that are written in an upbeat, conversational tone. But it should also sound professional. It’s also best to use common language and refrain from using too much jargon.

We recommend structuring your job description with the 3 R’s:

1. Requirements. Start with your requirements and qualifications. By keeping it at the top, job seekers can quickly determine whether or not they have the background needed to be considered for the job. Requirements can include qualifications, degrees, certifications, language fluencies, or anything else that’s absolutely necessary.
2. Responsibilities. Next, talk about what day-to-day life will be like for the person who’s hired for the job. This can be anything from specific tasks to overall employee goals.
3. Rewards. End with compensation, perks, and benefits of the role. Pay range is especially important for a job post—in fact, job seekers say it’s the number one thing they look for.

Make sure to include any other benefits your company might offer. Is your office dog-friendly? Include it. What about a work-from-home policy?

When you sponsor your job on Indeed, you’ll also get access to Matched Candidates, which uses your job description to find matched candidates who you can invite to apply. Make sure your job description accurately and completely describes who you’re looking for so we can surface the right matches for your job.

 

Sample job description templates

Not sure where to start? We’ve got you. Check out the sample job descriptions at the bottom of the page for the jobs we see every day on Indeed. Use them as a foundation for writing a job post of your own. You can also check out these tips for making your job descriptions more effective.