How To Write A Want Ad

By Wyatt Galt, 22 Jan 21:38

The formula is very simple: you want to hire someone, and there's someone out there who wants the job you're offering.

But how do you find that person? The first step is to get your message to the public. Hence, the want ad. Want ads are just that - ads that tell the public what you want. They usually appear in regional newspapers, but you can also place them in magazines or other local publications, and now on the Internet.

You will need to decide when you want the ad to run, where it should appear, and the size of the ad. Each of these factors will affect the price. Regardless of the medium you choose, your message will essentially be the same. And - creating want ads is not only a good way to find employees, but also a great opportunity to advertise your company. The following are a few tips on writing a want ad:

Get to the Point - Job Responsibilities. Be concise, but thorough. Make sure the person reading the ad knows exactly what you need in an employee and what the job entails. Before writing the actual ad, figure out what tasks the hired employee will do, as well as jobs that they may need to do in the future. If you are looking for someone who may be promoted quickly to a different position, keep those things in mind when listing desired traits. Once you have decided which tasks the prospective employee will do, write them out in order of importance in short phrases (ex: Shipping Clerk - Inventory, Mail Room, Ordering Supplies).

Prioritize Skills. Everybody needs people with "excellent communication skills," or a "great work ethic." Determine and list the skills that are most important to the position, or to your particular work environment. If a good sense of humor is as important in your company as fast typing skills - say that. List the necessary skills in order of importance (ex.: well-organized, attention to detail, prompt).

Experience. Make sure you mention any required education or experience. It's tempting to be vague here when you're willing to train the right person. But just coming out and saying the job requires an accounting degree and office experience will save you hours, days, even weeks of screening out unqualified people.

Salary. Salary information is optional - however - if the salary is not high, listing it may save you a lot of time from interviewing people who require more money. Also, be clear if the job has potential for growth, as that is something that all job searchers are looking for. Some people are willing to take a lower salary in exchange for great experience.

List the Interviewer as the Contact Person. Often times, the first phone contact with a candidate can tell you if that person is worth having in for an interview.

Sell Yourself. Make no mistake about it - potential employees are interviewing you as much as you are them, especially in tight job markets. Want ads can be a great opportunity to sell your company to the public. Potential investors have been known to look at unusual places to find out information on a company. Are you a "new, dynamic company with a great future"? Let people know that.

All in all - this is your time to shine. To tell people why they should work for you. Just remember, the general rule of thumb with writing want ads is - be honest. If you don't ask for what you want, chances are, you won't get it.

Format and space allowances will vary depending on where you place your ad. But this example includes all the basics you'll need:
HELP WANTED: ACCOUNTANT

Ambitious, detail-oriented accountant needed for management position at exciting, innovative Internet company. Looking for an accounting professional with experience in software revenue recognition; excellent analytical, interpersonal, communication (both written and verbal), and PC (specifically Microsoft Excel) skills; degree in accounting or a related field; 5+ years experience. Analyze complex contracts and deals for appropriate revenue recognition, implement systems to track revenue, and work closely with overseas offices. Please send cover letter and resume to Bob Smith in Human Resources at (include mailing address, fax or e-mail).

Happy Hunting!

Things you might need

How-to Extra Advice

Tags: want ad