What to include in a job description

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

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

In general, the average jobseeker 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 jobseeker 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, such as ‘phone answering superstar’, jobseekers just aren’t searching for that term on Indeed.

Instead, stick to job titles that jobseekers will find. When you use 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 required qualifications. By keeping these at the top, jobseekers can quickly determine whether they have the background needed to be considered for the job. Requirements can include qualifications, degrees, certifications, language abilities or anything else that’s absolutely necessary to carry out their role.
2. Responsibilities. Next, talk about what day-to-day life will be like for the person who’s chosen for the job. This can be anything from specific tasks to overall employee goals.
3. Rewards. End with pay, perks and benefits of the role. Pay range is especially important for a job post – in fact, jobseekers 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? What about a work-from-home policy?

When you’re happy with your job title and description, consider sponsoring your job on Indeed. Sponsored Jobs give your post more visibility in search results, helping it stand out to quality candidates who match what you’ve written. A clear, detailed job description makes it easier for our matching technology to surface your job to the right jobseekers.

Sample job description templates

Not sure where to start? We’ve got you. Take a look at the sample job descriptions we have for a wide range of specific jobs we see every day on Indeed. Use them as a foundation for writing a job post of your own. You can also take a look at these tips for making your job descriptions more effective.