Writing better job postings is the best way to convert job seekers into applicants. It is also one of the most difficult parts of the hiring process.

There are tons of resources available for improving your job postings: tips and tricks from HR experts, content-tutorials, and even straight-up templates.

It’s all been done.

Yet, the formula for writing engaging, effective job ads remains elusive!

Making job ads interesting is hard, and I’ve yet to see a template make the process easier.

These articles are not about writing “Rockstar” job posts. They are not written by HR pros... Or my parents (who are actually HR pros!)

Nope.

These articles are written by storytellers (Writers, marketers, communications experts). People who’s bread and butter is their ability to engage and communicate with other humans. Some of them even use line drawings!

Productivity Expert James Clear - 7 Improvements I Have Made to My Writing and Work

5,6, and 7 are the most applicable to job ad writing, but if you are brave enough to attempt number 4, I applaud you!

Buffer Social’s Kevin Lee - 30+ Ultimate Headline Formulas, these tips are all about capturing an audience immediately. Especially important if you’re using social recruiting!

Lifehacker - How to Edit Your Own Work, this is essential reading for anyone without a professional editor to assist them. ESSENTIAL!

Cision’s Director of Marketing Brandon Andersen - Writing for the Web to Keep Your Audience Engaged, all of these points can be applied to job posts, but number 9 is especially pertinent with the current trend towards “sassy” yet confusing job titles!

The Atlantic presents a video featuring professional story tellers explaining the key element for making a story great.
Oh, and one last link just for fun! This one is a little more specific to HR, The Job Rejection Letter to End all Others!

Do find inspiration for work from outside sources? If so, please share your tips in the comments!