Today there is talk of a person specification – rather than just talking about the needs of the job you actually need to think about the specification of the person who can do that actual job. By first devising a detailed job description (to help you there are a list of jobs in the Career Advice Section) and then reviewing the individual characteristics of a persons personality and skill set this will then help you write that all important job advert.

There are some key facts that must be put into the advert which should include:

…Rates of pay and hours, holiday entitlement and if overtime is available. Please note there are minimum wage regulations now. For the latest information on minimum wages please review our Legislation section on the Knowledge Bank .

…The job title, main purpose of the role and a list of the main duties

…What are the main qualities required and is experience necessary or will there be training and educational courses available for the right candidate?

…Full contact details, advert number to be quoted in their application, closing date and commencement start date of work too.

…If you have a web address then put a reference on your advert so that the candidate can review the company before they even consider applying. You don't want to waste valuable time with interviews unless you know that the person applying really is committed to the job concept.

…Please be aware of discriminatory laws now such as sex, ethnic background, religion, age and disability. Please review information on our Legislation section.

…Ask for applications in writing -you can tell a lot by a person's handwriting and without spell check their level of grammatical prowess and spelling.

…Also request a full CV with the accompanying letter too.

When writing the actual advert always try and place yourself in the shoes of the actual candidate applying for the position. Is it easy to read, not too much information, stands out from the rest of the adverts and placement of the ad is also important. If its going into newspapers then look for the RHS page as most people are right handed and when flicking through the paper may centre on the RHS page. Normally top RHS corners are also an effective position on the page so don't be afraid to ask for this position too when placing your advert.
 

Remember too that there are many free sites now that advertise jobs (such as your truly www.fashioncapital.co.uk) make sure you optimise such sites as you just never know who may be placing an advert in such forums.

Always try and run your advert by a friend or family member as it's always good to have new perspectives on adverts. Remember too that if you are worried about the wording then seek advise first – better to be safe than sorry!