This article is for administrators and staffing users.
Overview
A clear job description helps the right people apply. It sets clear goals and saves time. This guide shows how to write job descriptions that are easy to read and effective.
Well-written job descriptions are short, clear, and focused. They help candidates understand the role fast. They also improve application rates.
Recommended Job Description Length
- Aim for 300 to 700 words.
- Fewer than 300 words often lack detail.
- More than 700 words feel long and hard to read.
- Keep your message focused. Share only what matters most.
Write Short, Clear Sentences
- Short sentences are easier to read.
- Aim for 8 to 13 words per sentence.
- Use one idea per sentence.
- Avoid long or complex phrasing.
- Clear sentences help candidates scan and understand the role faster.
Use Short Paragraphs and Add Visual Breaks
- Long paragraphs cause candidates to skip content.
- Keep paragraphs to 1 or 2 sentences.
- Add space between ideas.
- Use visual breaks often.
- Visual breaks help guide the reader.
- Use these tools to organize content:
- Bulleted lists
- Numbered lists
- Short section headings
- These changes make your job description easier to scan, especially on mobile screens.
Use Simple Language
Readable job descriptions favor common words with fewer syllables. Simplified language improves accessibility and scannability.
Examples:
- Use team instead of personnel
- Use handles instead of is responsible for
- Use needs to instead of requires
- Use about instead of regarding
- Use set up instead of implement
- Use buy instead of purchase
- Use plan instead of strategize
Simple language improves clarity and reach.
Important Considerations
- Readability standards support consistency but do not replace legal or compliance requirements.
- Content may require additional length to meet regulatory needs.
- 7132
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- comprehension rate
- short and direct sentences
- long descriptions are bad
- short descriptions are bad
- ideal word lenght
- 700 words
- simple is better
- short words
- short paragraphs
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- what are the best practices to modify a job description's readability score in recruiting
- readability standards
- job posting length
- sentence length guidelines
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Updated: May 18th, 2026 23972 views 0 likes
*This content is for educational purposes only, is not intended to provide specific legal advice, and should not be used as a substitute for the legal advice of a qualified attorney or other professional. The information may not reflect the most current legal developments, may be changed without notice and is not guaranteed to be complete, correct, or up-to-date.