The Dos and Don’ts of Promoting Jobs Online

# Promoting Jobs Online: A Comprehensive Guide to Attracting the Right Candidates

Promoting jobs online might seem as simple as uploading a post and waiting for applications, but if that’s your only strategy, you're probably missing out on the best candidates.

With so many businesses vying for attention, it takes more than a job title and a salary to cut through the noise. Here’s a practical guide to what you should and shouldn’t do when advertising roles online, so your next hire doesn’t just tick boxes... they fit your culture and stay.

Your job ad isn’t a legal contract: it’s an invitation.

✅ DO: Write Like a Human

Your job ad isn’t a legal contract: it’s an invitation. Use natural, engaging language that reflects your company’s tone of voice. Make the role sound exciting, inclusive, and welcoming. Avoid jargon or corporate buzzwords, and speak directly to your ideal candidate.

Instead of:

"We are a results-driven organisation seeking a dynamic individual..."

Try:

"We’re looking for someone who loves people, thrives in a busy environment, and wants to grow with a fun, supportive team."

❌ DON’T: Just Post and Ghost

Job ads aren’t a one-and-done task. Simply posting on a job board and hoping for the best won’t cut it. Promote your role across multiple platforms—especially social media—and be prepared to respond to questions or interest promptly.

✅ DO: Use Eye-Catching Visuals

On platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn, visuals matter. Use clean, branded graphics or behind-the-scenes photos to draw attention to your post. Video clips of your team or workplace can also boost engagement and help candidates imagine what it’s like to work with you.

❌ DON’T: Hide the Important Stuff

If your job ad makes candidates dig for details, you’re losing them. Be clear and upfront about the essentials: location, salary (or at least a range), working hours, benefits, and expectations. Transparency builds trust and improves application quality.

✅ DO: Showcase Your Employer Brand

Every job ad is a chance to reinforce your employer brand. Use your values, tone, and culture to give people a feel for what you’re like as an employer. Talk about your team, your mission, and what makes working with you unique.

❌ DON’T: Target Everyone When Promoting Jobs Online

The broader your message, the less it connects. Think about who you’re trying to reach and tailor the ad to speak to them. For example, if you’re hiring for weekend roles, speak to students or parents looking for flexible work.

✅ DO: Track and Tweak

Keep an eye on how your job ads perform. Which platforms deliver the best candidates? What headlines get the most clicks? Use this insight to refine future posts and improve your success rate over time.

The Importance of a Strong Call to Action

A strong call to action (CTA) can significantly impact the response rate to your job ad. Encourage candidates to apply by using phrases like "Join our team today!" or "We can’t wait to meet you!" This creates a sense of urgency and excitement.

Engaging with Your Audience

Engagement doesn’t stop at posting the job ad. Respond to comments and messages promptly. This shows potential candidates that you value their interest and are eager to communicate. A friendly interaction can set the tone for a positive candidate experience.

The Role of Social Media in Job Promotion

Social media platforms are powerful tools for job promotion. They allow you to reach a wider audience and engage with potential candidates in a more personal way. Share your job postings on various platforms, and consider using paid ads to increase visibility.

Leveraging Employee Networks

Encourage your current employees to share job postings within their networks. They can help spread the word to potential candidates who may not be actively looking for a job but would be interested in the opportunity. This can lead to high-quality referrals.

The Benefits of Video Job Descriptions

Consider creating a video job description. This format allows you to showcase your workplace culture and give candidates a glimpse of what it’s like to work with your team. Videos can be more engaging than text alone and can help attract the right candidates.

Need Help Bringing Your Job Ads to Life?

At The Social Recruitment Marketing Agency, we specialise in turning bland job posts into scroll-stopping, people-attracting campaigns. If you're ready to recruit smarter, not harder, take a look here to see how we can help.

By following these guidelines, you can enhance your job postings and attract the right candidates who align with your company culture. Remember, the goal is not just to fill a position but to find someone who will thrive in your environment and contribute to your team's success.