How to Write a Job Advert That Attracts Quality Candidates
Introduction: Why Your Job Advert Matters More Than Ever
In today’s competitive Scottish job market, a well-written job advert can make all the difference between attracting a handful of average applicants and a shortlist of qualified, motivated candidates.
With thousands of listings on job boards like JobHub Scotland, your advert needs to grab attention fast, communicate clearly, and inspire action. Here’s how to do just that.
1. Start With a Clear, Search-Friendly Job Title
Your job title is the first thing candidates see and what search engines index. Avoid vague titles like “Assistant Needed” or “Superstar Wanted.” Instead, use specific, keyword-rich titles such as:
- “Administrative Assistant – Full-Time, Glasgow Office”
- “Mechanical Engineer (Oil & Gas, Aberdeen)”
- “Hospitality Supervisor – Edinburgh City Centre”
Including location, employment type, and industry helps your listing appear in relevant job board searches and on Google.
2. Lead With What Makes the Role Attractive
The opening paragraph of your advert should focus on why someone would want to work for you.
Highlight what makes your role stand out:
- Competitive salary or benefits
- Hybrid or remote options
- Supportive culture or values
- Training or career development opportunities
Candidates spend only a few seconds scanning ads so lead with the good stuff.
3. Make Responsibilities & Requirements Easy to Scan
Walls of text can deter great applicants. Use bullet points for clarity:
Responsibilities:
- Manage client communications and reporting.
- Coordinate project timelines with internal teams.
- Maintain accurate documentation and records.
Requirements:
- 2+ years of relevant experience.
- Excellent communication and organisational skills.
- Proficiency in [specific software or tools].
Concise formatting keeps your advert readable and professional.
4. Speak Directly to the Candidate
Instead of listing what you want, frame your advert around what they gain.
For example:
“You’ll join a growing team where your ideas are valued, and you’ll have the freedom to shape your career.”
It’s subtle, but candidate-focused language converts better.
5. Showcase Your Employer Brand
Your job advert is more than a vacancy notice; it’s a marketing tool for your company.
Include a short paragraph about your culture, mission, or achievements.
“At Highland Digital, we’re passionate about empowering Scottish businesses through innovative tech solutions. We value collaboration, integrity, and continuous learning.”
This builds trust and helps candidates connect with your brand.
6. Optimise for Job Board Algorithms
Job boards use internal search algorithms, similar to Google’s. To improve your ranking:
- Use relevant keywords naturally (role title, skills, location).
- Fill out all optional fields (salary range, job type, experience level).
- Keep descriptions concise (400–700 words is ideal).
- Update or repost periodically to stay visible.
7. End With a Strong Call to Action
Encourage immediate action with a clear CTA:
“Ready to take the next step in your career? Apply now via JobHub Scotland.”
Or, for employers:
“Post your next role today on JobHubScotland.co.uk and reach Scotland’s best candidates fast.”
Conclusion: Small Improvements, Big Results
A few tweaks to your job advert can dramatically improve application quality, saving you time, effort, and money. By writing with clarity, authenticity, and search visibility in mind, you’ll make every listing work harder for you.
Post your job today on JobHub Scotland and connect with Scotland’s top talent.
