Let’s be honest — some job ads out there read like they were copied straight out of a dusty HR manual from 1998. “Must be a self-starter. Be able to work under pressure. Must have 5 years’ experience in everything.”
Because of this, it’s no wonder that responses range from completely unqualified applicants to mystery CVs with no contact details.
However, the truth is simple: a bad job ad attracts the wrong people. In a small or medium business, one bad hire can turn into a full-blown job disaster — costing you time, money, and a lot of patience.
Fortunately, writing effective job ads doesn’t have to be hard. Here’s how to make them work (and avoid CCMA headaches):
1. Be Specific About the Role in Job Ads
Instead of writing “Admin Assistant,” try “Admin Assistant with Pastel Experience for Growing Logistics Company.” The clearer you are, the better the match. As a result, you attract candidates who actually fit your needs.
2. List the Must-Haves Only
Next, focus on the non-negotiables — the skills, qualifications, or experience your business truly needs. Don’t scare off great applicants with a 20-point list that no one can meet. Remember, less is more, and specificity saves time.
3. Highlight What Makes Your Business Great
In addition, small businesses have unique selling points: flexibility, growth opportunities, a tight-knit team. Make sure your job ads show this. A good ad sells your company while also vetting candidates. The more appealing your company, the stronger the applicants you’ll attract.
4. Keep It Legal
Moreover, South African labour laws are clear: no discrimination. Your job ads should be inclusive and fair — no age limits, gender preferences, or other wording that could cause legal trouble later. Following the law protects your business and shows professionalism.
5. End With Clear Instructions
Finally, tell applicants exactly what you want — CV, cover letter, references — and how to send them. A clear call to action saves you from sorting through incomplete applications. In short, clarity at the end makes the whole process smoother.
Strong Job Ads Attract Strong Candidates
In conclusion, a strong job ad is the first step toward a great hire. It sets the tone even before the interview and helps you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
At TeamMaster HR, we help business owners like you craft job ads that pull in quality candidates, not chaos.
📩 Ready to turn your job ads from disasters into magnets for top talent? Let’s get writing.
