Writing a job advert sounds easy — until your inbox fills with the wrong applicants, or worse, none at all.
Here are the 10 most common mistakes employers make when posting jobs — and how to fix them.
1. Using a Vague Job Title
❌ Sales Person
✅ Sales Executive – B2B (Full-Time, Edinburgh)
Why it matters: Jobseekers will search using clear, specific terms. Vague titles don’t do well in search results.
2. Lots of Text
Long, unstructured job ads are overwhelming. If your job description reads like a novel, candidates will likely scroll past.
- Use bullet points
- Break content into sections (About the Role, Responsibilities, Requirements, Benefits)
3. Not Including a Salary Range
More than ever, candidates expect salary transparency. Ads without pay info often get fewer clicks and lower-quality applicants.
Even if it’s a range, include it. For example: £28,000–£32,000 depending on experience
4. Listing Unrealistic Requirements
“Must have 10 years’ experience for an entry-level role.” Unrealistic criteria scare off great candidates.
Focus on must-haves vs nice-to-haves. Less is more.
5. Ignoring Location or Hybrid Options
Don’t leave candidates guessing where the job is based or whether it’s remote-friendly.
Example:
Hybrid role – 2 days/week in Glasgow office
Clarity = better fits = faster hires.
6. Missing a Strong Opening Hook
The first 2–3 lines of your job ad are critical. If they’re dull or too technical, people stop reading.
Start with what makes the role or company exciting:
“Join one of Scotland’s fastest-growing renewable energy firms and help shape a greener future.”
7. Forgetting Your Employer Brand
If your job post is all about tasks and nothing about culture or values, you’re missing a trick.
Include:
- A sentence about your company’s mission
- What it’s like to work there
- Perks beyond pay (flexibility, team days, growth)
8. Not Using Inclusive Language
Language matters. Use gender-neutral, age-neutral, and inclusive wording.
9. Skipping a Call to Action (CTA)
You’ve written a great post — now tell them what to do next.
Example:
“Ready to apply? Upload your CV and a short cover letter via JobHubScotland by 30th May.”
Make it easy, and set clear next steps.
10. Posting and Forgetting
Job ads shouldn’t be “set it and forget it.” If it’s been up for weeks with no bites, it’s time to:
- Refresh the headline
- Adjust the salary
- Share it again on social media
- Repost it with updated content
The best job ads don’t just list duties, They sell the opportunity and attract the right people. Avoiding these common mistakes can help your listing rise above the noise and bring in quality candidates fast.
