The Psychology of Job Ads – What Top Talent Really Looks For
In a talent-scarce market, your job post isn’t just a notice it’s a marketing pitch. And if you want to attract A-players, you need to understand how they think.
What the Data Says
A compelling job description is a key decision driver. In fact, 52% of job seekers say the quality of a job description influences their decision to apply (Indeed). If your ad is unclear, uninspiring, or overloaded with corporate jargon, high-calibre talent will quickly lose interest.
What A-Players Are Really Looking For
Top candidates aren’t just looking for a paycheck. They’re scanning for signs of:
• Clarity: Clear responsibilities, success metrics, and expectations.
• Purpose: A mission or goal they can believe in.
• Growth: Opportunities for learning, advancement, or challenge.
• Culture: Values and tone that align with their own.
They often skim through job posts, pausing on specific cues that reveal whether this role aligns with their identity and career path.
Language Matters
The tone and structure of your job ad sends a strong signal. Consider the difference:
Passive & Dry:
"The incumbent will be responsible for the management of various administrative tasks as assigned."
Active & Engaging:
"You'll take ownership of critical admin workflows and help streamline operations to support the whole team."
Avoid buzzwords and fluff. Write in plain, human language. Use active verbs. Show don’t tell.
Where Level Up Adds Value
We don’t just write job specs, we build connection. At Level Up, we collaborate with your team to align job descriptions with your Employer Value Proposition (EVP), using storytelling to:
• Showcase your mission and values.
• Illustrate what success looks like in the role.
• Position your company as a destination for growth and purpose.
Your EVP is your edge, and we help you embed it in every line. “Want your next job post to be a magnet for top talent? Start writing for humans, not just HR compliance."
In Part 3, we’ll break down the ideal structure of a job description and how you can maximise impact in just a few short seconds.