Advertising internally sends a positive message to staff that advancement in the business is possible. Advertising externally sends a message to the competition that the business is growing.
Note: If you have a recruitment pool of qualified candidates check that first.
If you need to advertise, internal advertising is recommended for all vacancies. If you consider there may not be suitable internal candidates then advertise externally at the same time to avoid delays.
Most recruitment is now done via the Internet (e.g., SEEK / TradeMe Jobs). If local conditions favour print media and/or other processes, then they should also be considered.
To attract the right people, the advertisement should:
Be designed in a style that will capture the attention of candidates and reflect the appropriate image for the business. Where standard formats exist these must be used.
Describe the position – cover the main accountabilities, qualifications and experience required, any special aspects of the work (such as whether frequent travel is involved), and the work location;
If your policy allows it, indicate the pay range;
Be careful to observe the Human Rights Act; and
Provide contact details in case applicants would like more information and be sure to state how people are to apply. Specify the closing date for applications.
Take time to prepare your message. Plan ahead with this advertising checklist
If you have other employees in similar roles, ask where they have looked to find jobs in the past and what appealed to them about the advertisements.
Make sure you have an agreed job and person specification.
Note down the key selling points.
Who is the audience you want to attract? What’s motivating them?
Where are you going to advertise? Online or print advertising, or both?
Is your advertisement going to be very specific to one candidate or broad to attract more candidates? Consider the current market.
What selection process are you going to use? Internal or external or both?
Read tips for writing a great job advertisement
Keep your text short, simple and informal. No more than 200 words.
Short paragraphs and short sentences catch the eye.
Be personal – use “you” rather than “candidate”.
Make it easy to reply – particularly in markets where few candidates are available.
Be prepared to take phone calls and make sure you have the number right.
Never forget what’s in it for the candidate?
Try and be a little original.
Avoid generic words like “excellent communication skills” or “motivated” as these words don’t mean much by themselves.
It doesn’t have to be clever – it has to make sense to the target audience.
Get someone else to read your ad to ensure you are getting your desired message across.
You can use our Telnet Inbound or Outbound online Advertising Templates or create your own advert using this Blank Template.