Why Most Job Listings Feel Like Swiping Left on Your Dream Gig, and How to Fix It

Ever stumbled upon a job listing that made you yawn so hard your coffee went cold? Yes, I've been there, and if you're nodding along, this jab is for you. I'm diving straight into the art of job listings—a world where "exciting opportunity" often translates to "we have a coffee machine."

It’s Not You, It’s Them: Breaking Down Why Job Listings Suck

Let’s get real. Most job listings are as appealing as a soggy toast. They either sound like a robot wrote them or they're bursting with buzzwords that mean zilch. Here's a peek at why they miss the mark:

First off, they're impersonal. You've seen them—the ones that read like a legal document rather than a conversation. Then there’s the jargon jungle. "Synergy," "wheelhouse," "pivot"—it's like a bad episode of corporate bingo.

In my experience, every time I see "rockstar" in a job ad, I can't help but picture a boardroom full of suits thinking this will attract the cool kids.

Listening Booth: What Job Seekers Actually Want

We're in 2025, folks! Job seekers are looking for transparency, culture fit, and yeah, some real talk about what the heck they’ll actually be doing. They want to know if it's just a paycheck or if they’re going to be part of something bigger than the bottom line.

So, how about we ditch the template? Instead of “dynamic self-starters," how about saying, “Hey, if you love numbers and hate mundane, we might just get along!”

What Makes a Job Listing Swipe-Right Worthy?

• Clear, concise role descriptions—tell it like it is.
• Personality! Yes, companies have them too. Let it shine.
• Day-in-the-life scenarios—help candidates visualize working with you.
• Real employee testimonials—unscripted and honest.
• Details on work-life balance—because everyone values their Netflix time.
• An outline of career advancement opportunities—show them a ladder, not just a job.
• Perks and benefits that aren’t just fluff—snacks are great, but what about health and wellness?
• Application tips—help them help you with what to include in their application.
• Diversity and inclusion practices—show you mean business about building a welcoming workplace.

Imagine if job listings could be less like tax forms and more like a first date—where both parties are genuinely interested in learning about each other, setting the stage for a potential long-term relationship.

From Bland to Brand: Personalizing Your Pitch

So, here's the real kicker. Customizing your job solutions isn't just about attracting candidates; it's about attracting the right ones. When my wife Ashley and I started tweaking listings for our ventures, we noticed a shift. Not only did the quality of applicants improve, but those who joined us were more aligned with our ethos.

Think of your job listing as your ambassador. It should be able to mingle at a party (a.k.a the job market) and draw the right crowd. If it’s boring or stiff, you bet it’ll be hanging out alone by the snack table.

Final Thoughts: Where Do We Go From Here?

Whether you’re a startup in the sneaker game or a finance firm looking to up your ante, the core challenge remains: how do you talk the talk to make top talent walk the walk—right through your office doors?

It's about making that human connection, even before the first handshake. Because at the end of the day, every job listing is not just a vacancy. It’s an invitation to a future that we're all trying to build together. Now, isn't that a thought worth considering?