The Founder's Guide to Crafting the Perfect Job Post to Recruit Leaders
Nailing the job description is key for attracting top talent suited for a senior role at your emerging company. Follow these tips when writing the perfect job description to fill this critical position.
Define the Role
Start by outlining the core objectives and responsibilities of the position. Be as specific as possible about the department the new leader will manage and high-level goals. Explain how the role fits into the startup's mission and growth trajectory.
According to experts, effective job posts highlight 3-5 primary duties and skills needed to excel in the role). Resist listing every small responsibility to keep the focus clear.
For example:
"As VP of Marketing, you will own marketing strategy and execution across all channels. You will manage a team of 2-3 to achieve customer acquisition and revenue growth objectives."
Highlight Must-Have Qualifications
Call out the key skills, experience level, and attributes an ideal candidate will possess.
For a leadership role, minimum qualifications may include:
5-7+ years experience in relevant industry or functions
Experience managing and developing teams
Budget ownership
Specific skills like analytics, fundraising, etc.
Quantify past achievement levels you are looking for as well to attract candidates who meet your standards.
Communicate Company Culture
Highlighting company culture in job posts may result in hires that stay longer. Describe your startup's values, passion areas, and working environment.
Consider weaving in elements like:
Mission-driven, entrepreneurial, fast-paced environment
Commitment to transparency, problem-solving, creativity
Benefits like equity, flexible schedule, professional development
Sell the Opportunity
Persuade talented candidates to take a chance on your startup over more established companies. Emphasize opportunities like:
Chance to make a direct strategic impact in a hypergrowth environment
Joining an innovative company poised to disrupt the industry
Upside potential like equity, bonuses, future growth roles
Authenticity is key here - be realistic about both the risks and rewards of the startup experience given this leader will shape the future path.
Optimize for Applicant Tracking Systems
Use common keywords from the job title throughout the description so applicant tracking software can pick up the posting. Easy-to-spot formatting like bullet points and short paragraphs also helps.
Follow Best Practices
Adhere to EEOC laws by keeping the job description free of discriminatory language. Maintain an inclusive tone. Grammarly suggests reading the listing aloud and removing unnecessary complex jargon.
With a compelling, highly targeted job description tailored to your startup's needs, you will attract standout leadership candidates excited to drive your company forward.