In a contemporary job description of a specific job, the job summary section

Since so few companies invest time or effort in writing compelling job descriptions, you have an enormous opportunity to stand out. Job postings can be so much more than a list of requirements — they can strengthen your employer brand and inspire the right candidates to take action. 

All of your candidates — whether passive or active — will read your job descriptions at some point in the hiring process. Why not use them strategically to grab and keep the attention of the candidates you’re really after?

Here are six job description examples that do just that — and what you can borrow from them.

1. Cut the long paragraph about your company

Many companies kick off their job descriptions with a standard boilerplate to introduce the company. But that’s why you have a careers site and LinkedIn Company Page. Candidates can learn about your company elsewhere, so keep your company overview brief and consider moving it to a less prominent position on your job posting.

Instead, use the prime real estate at the top of your job posting to speak to your target candidates and sell them on your opportunity. 

Zappos’s job descriptions are candidate-centric, focusing on the reasons a candidate might want to work there before getting into the job requirements. This includes:

  • A brief statement about diversity and inclusion
  • Information about their company culture
  • Employee benefits and perks

The expandable About Us section is tucked off in a sidebar so candidates can learn more about the company if they wish to do so.

What is included in the content of the job description?

A job description contains the following components: job title, job purpose, job duties and responsibilities, required qualifications, preferred qualifications, and working conditions.

What is job description with example?

A job description summarizes the essential responsibilities, activities, qualifications and skills for a role. Also known as a JD, this document describes the type of work performed. A job description should include important company details — company mission, culture and any benefits it provides to employees.

What is the purpose of a job description?

Purpose of the Job Description: The job description documents essential job functions and the skills, knowledge, abilities and other characteristics needed for satisfactory performance of the job. It should be updated regularly to ensure that it reflects the employee's current assigned responsibilities.