Step One: Read The Job Brief

Knowledge is power. The more you know, the more you know you didn’t know and this is especially true when it comes to reading, understanding and implementing a job brief.

As a recruiter, an employer or a candidate, understanding how to read between the lines of a job brief could be the difference between placing someone, finding someone, or landing the role.

My 30 years of recruitment experience makes me a bit of an expert in this field and seeing as I’ve probably read more briefs than you’ve had hot dinners, I thought it was time I shared some secrets. Despite much dismay, reading or creating a job brief isn’t a quick 10 minute job – it is the lengthiest process recruiters go through and should always be meticulously thought out.

Recruiters: Match people with people

The brief is critical for you as a recruiter. The information you gather during this time will determine the final outcome so take this time to channel your inner journalist and get right down to the core requirements. Find out exactly what would make the perfect candidate by understanding your client’s ideal wants including; experience, background and most importantly, character. The secret to placing the best candidate is finding somebody who fits the company culture. In other words, matching people with people. To do this, you need to ask the right questions, gather as much information as possible and fully understand the needs of your client. Remember, anything you don’t ask could be the reason you don’t succeed. To help with this, I suggest creating a list of every potential question such as candidate requirements, details of the job opportunity and business visions. Being thorough and concise helps to confirm a timeline and secure time for potential interviews. 

Candidates: Attention to detail

I can’t tell you how many people I’ve interviewed who have obviously failed to fully read and digest the job brief. This always baffles me because it should be the starting point for all your preparations – it’s one of the only sure ways to impress.

Whenever you’re applying for a new role, take a look at the brief and highlight every aspect of the job. Next, apply your experience. The job brief explicitly tells you what your potential employer is looking for and offers a structured framework to not only draft your cover letter but also craft an exact list of the skills you need to present in an interview situation.

 Employers: Communication is key

There’s no such thing as too much information when you’re an employer looking to hire, particularly when using a recruiter. It’s in your best interest to properly brief your recruiter because the more information you give them, the more chance they have to fill the role and you’ll certainly meet a better calibre of candidates. If you’re not using a recruiter then the process of writing a job brief presents the perfect opportunity to really think about what you’re looking for, what the objectives of the role are and what characteristics your ideal candidate would have. 

It is essential that you illustrate why your business is a great place to work to attract the best talent. Despite popular misconception, people move jobs for opportunity, not just for a pay rise, so be sure to show room for career growth and any added benefits you offer.

In a nutshell, the brief should always be step one in your recruitment process. Whether you’re looking to find the best candidate or secure your perfect job, it all starts here; mastering the brief is the first building block of many. Use it to your advantage and take in as much information as possible if you really want to sell yourself or your business and successfully progress in your career.

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