How to Write a Job Posting That Attracts the Right People

Published under The HR Hat on HatStacked.com

You’re hiring. Again. Your last post attracted a mix of bots, career spammers, and someone who listed “vibing” as a core skill. Let’s fix that. Here’s how to write a job post that doesn’t repel humans.

Step 1: Stop Sounding Like a Legal Document

You are not writing the terms of service. You are writing to real people. Real people who are probably reading this post on their phone while waiting for coffee.

So cut the:

• “synergistic team player”
• “fast-paced environment requiring strategic alignment”
• “must lift 40 lbs” (why? Are you a medieval catapult company?)

Instead, try:

• “We’re looking for someone who can take a project from ‘what even is this’ to ‘done and dusted’”
• “Yes, we’re a small business. Yes, you’ll wear more than one hat. That’s kind of our thing.”
• “This job does not involve heavy lifting. Unless you count emotional resilience.”

Step 2: Say What the Job Actually Is

Not just the title. Titles are lies. “Coordinator” could mean you run the company or that you order toner.

Spell it out:

• What they’ll do every day
• Who they’ll work with
• What success looks like

Example:

You’ll manage customer emails, follow up with vendors, and make sure we don’t forget to invoice people (again).

If you don’t know what the job is, that’s a bigger issue. Might want to solve that first.

Step 3: Say Who You Actually Are

Your “About Us” should not read like it was ghostwritten by ChatGPT 1.0.

Give a little personality:

• What do you sell?
• Who buys it?
• Why are you hiring now?

And if your team is a little chaotic? Say that. The right people appreciate honesty more than buzzwords.

Step 4: Be Upfront About Pay (Yes, Really)

You know what makes people scroll right past your post? The phrase “competitive salary.”

That means nothing.

Give a range. Even if it’s rough. You’ll get better applicants and waste less time.

And while you’re at it, say whether it’s remote, hybrid, on-site, or “please live on the loading dock.” People want to know.

Step 5: Don't Ask for a Unicorn (Unless You’re a Zoo)

Too many posts want:

• 5+ years of experience
• Advanced degree
• Ability to code, sell, write, market, manage, and also bake sourdough
• Willingness to be paid in “equity” or “experience”

You’re not hiring Iron Man. You’re hiring a real human.

Stick to what actually matters.

Step 6: Write Like a Human. Hire a Human.

Instead of:

The ideal candidate will possess exemplary multitasking skills and a proactive mindset.

Try:

If you like juggling multiple things without dropping the ball (too often), you’ll fit in here.

Instead of:

Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in cross-functional alignment.

Try:

You’ll need to work with other departments without losing your patience. Or your lunch.

If your post makes someone laugh or nod, that’s a good sign. Keep it conversational. Keep it clear.

Step 7: End With a Nudge, Not a Threat

Don’t close your post with “only qualified applicants will be contacted.”

It’s cold. It’s unnecessary. And it makes you sound like a robot.

Try this:

If this sounds like a fit, we’d love to hear from you. Weird résumés welcome.

Because honestly? Some of the best hires have résumés that don’t follow the rules.

Bonus: Examples That Actually Work

Bad:

“We are a dynamic, fast-growing company seeking a rockstar who thrives in a high-pressure environment.”

Better:

“We’re a small team that moves quickly and talks to each other a lot. If you like crossing things off your list and cracking a few jokes while you do it, you’ll do great here.”

Bad:

“Must be self-starter, go-getter, team-oriented solo ninja.”

Better:

“We’re looking for someone who can take a task, ask smart questions, and run with it. Bonus points if you organize your Google Drive.”

Final Thought

A job posting isn’t just about filling a seat. It’s the first impression of your team, your vibe, and whether you value actual people or just warm bodies with Microsoft Word installed.

So be clear. Be human. Be real.

And if you end up hiring someone who lists “vibing” again… well, at least they vibed with your job post.