The best job description I've ever written... and the results it got me.

Last month I began a search for a graphic designer that would help us. I had just moved to Nicosia, Cyprus, as their Chief Global Messaging Officer 3 weeks before and had very specific needs. The local head-hunting firm we had used produced zero results so I decided to take things into my own hands.

The previous job description had all the usual BS and tons of verbiage that defines something like 90% of the work I've seen from recruiters.

I wrote a short, to the point job description:

Need a graphic designer who can help us with three things:

1. Digital banners
2. PowerPoint templates and design
3. Printed materials

In that order. Finally, has to be able to work in person in our Nicosia office for some of the meetings and must have an ego solid enough to work within the constraints of the branding guidelines already created by our designers in Australia.

That's it.

Within days we had a dozen qualified emails which I then proceeded to interview. Moreover, most of the candidates came well prepared to address our three points.

Results? We found a designer who fit all our requirements, had a great portfolio, was right on cost and hired her the same day.

Lessons? Be straight to the point, outline your needs (which will be your hiring criteria) and don't fill your job descriptions with BS.