How to Write the Most Readable Job Descriptions (8 Tips)

• 100% comprehension for sentences of 8 words or fewer;
• 90% comprehension for 14-word sentences;
• 10% comprehension for 43-word sentences.

Using fewer words per sentence could also enhance your job descriptions’ accessibility for dyslexic candidates and others facing reading or language-processing challenges.

3. Craft Shorter Paragraphs

Many job descriptions contain paragraphs that consist of four or more sentences.

Try to utilize paragraphs that are one or two sentences long, as they are simpler to read.

Numerous candidates skim through dense text, so segmenting your content into shorter paragraphs can facilitate easier reading.

Instead of linking sentences within a single paragraph, use transition words like “therefore,” “but,” or “additionally” to connect ideas.

4. Select Simpler Words (with fewer syllables!)

Did you know that one in five students, or 15-20% of the population, has a learning disability related to language? Dyslexia is the most prevalent learning disability.

Many candidates with dyslexia often struggle to read multisyllabic words.

Here are some examples of terms/phrases that have simpler synonyms with fewer syllables:

• Personnel (use “team”)
• Is responsible for (use “handles”)
• Require or Requirement (use “need”)
• Regarding (use “about,” “of,” or “on”)
• Implement (use “install” or “put in place”)
• Purchase (use “buy”)

Try revising your writing by eliminating longer and more complicated terms afterwards. It can be enjoyable to discover how much you can convey using simpler words.

5. Provide Your Reader with Eye Breaks

Candidates often dismiss job descriptions containing dense blocks of text, as these segments are challenging to read for those skim-reading. In addition to shortening your paragraphs, which we’ve discussed, here are a few more suggestions to enhance the visual appeal of your JD.

So, try giving the reader a reprieve by utilizing:

• Bullet points — consider comparing a job description with no bullets versus one where about 30% of the content is bulleted
• Using numbers (“7”) rather than spelling out the numeral (“seven”)
• Incorporating symbols whenever possible.
• Using clear section titles to delineate sections (About You, About Us, etc.)
• Utilizing bold text and a larger font for headings

6. Compose Your Job Descriptions in a Conversational Tone

Utilizing a conversational tone fosters trust and connection with your readers. It also portrays your company as more approachable.

Adopt a more conversational style by:

“How would you like to assist in creating a product that millions of people might use?” (e.g., for a software developer)

“How…

“Would you be interested in earning while we educate you on selling?” (e.g. a junior sales representative)

• Composing in the first person/second person — e.g. Utilizing “We/Our” (first person) and “You/Your” (second person)
• Applying your organization’s branding guidelines to accurately portray your corporate culture

7. Remove most adverbs from your job postings

Adverbs can be enjoyable in creative writing, but they have limited value in professional communication. They consume important space and focus in job postings.

For instance, consider this statement from a Fortune 100 firm’s job listing that Ongig examined:

“You might possibly work on boardroom presentations.”

The terms “might” and “possibly” are unnecessary. The author could have excluded the adverb “possibly” without altering the essence of the sentence.

Here are some commonly used adverbs that, if omitted, would not detract from the meaning of a statement:

• Properly
• Primarily
• Closely
• Preferably
• Creatively
• Accordingly

Omitting adverbs could spare you 10+ words per job posting AND enhance readability for all your candidates, including those who may take a bit more time to read.

You’ll also observe that numerous adverbs consist of 3 or more syllables (refer to tip #4 above). Therefore, removing them is a straightforward approach to crafting your job postings in plain language.

8. Communicate your intent clearly

We frequently encounter job postings filled with unnecessary corporate jargon. However, even aside from technical terms, many job descriptions feature vague or empty corporate language.

You can maintain a professional tone without being ambiguous. In fact, candidates value transparency from prospective employers!

Here are a few suggestions to ensure your job description is clear:

• Identify words or phrases that are specific to your industry in your job description. Substitute them with more universally understood terms.
• Consider what the role genuinely demands. Do you really require a candidate with a degree, or could work experience suffice? Only list qualifications that are absolutely essential.
• Specify the soft skills or character traits you’re seeking—many employers neglect to include these in their job postings.