How to Write Job Descriptions That Attract Top Marketing + Creative Talent

A job description can make or break your hiring success.

Your job descripton isn’t just a formality; it’s your first impression. The best candidates won’t apply for a role that feels vague, uninspired, or too rigid. Instead, they’re drawn to opportunities that sound purposeful, people-focused, and aligned with their skills and ambitions.

So how do you write a job description that not only informs but inspires?

Let’s break down how to craft one that stands out and attracts the kind of marketers and creatives who elevate your brand.

Start With a Compelling, Human-Centered Introduction

Skip the corporate jargon and start with what makes this role exciting. Paint a picture of the position’s impact on the team, the brand, or the customer experience.

Example: 

“We’re looking for a Senior Marketing Manager who’s passionate about crafting campaigns that connect. Someone who thrives on turning data into creative strategy.”

Pro Tip: Keep the first few lines conversational. The tone should feel approachable, not transactional.

Showcase Your Employer Brand

Top talent wants to know who they’ll be working for, not just what they’ll be doing. Use your job description to spotlight your culture, values, and what makes your company a great place to work.

Include brief details like:

• + What your team or company stands for.
• + The type of environment (collaborative, fast-paced, innovative, etc.)
• + Opportunities for learning or career growth.

This transforms your posting from “just another job” into an opportunity with purpose.

Be Specific About Responsibilities – But Keep It Focused

It’s tempting to list every possible task, but too much detail can overwhelm or deter great candidates. Instead, highlight the 5-7 core reponsibilities that truly define success in the role.

Better yet: Group them into themes (e.g., campaign strategy, team collaboration, content development) that makes the description easier to skim and more engaging to read.

Clarify Must-Haves vs. Nice-To-Haves

Overly long “requirement” lists are one of the biggest barriers to attracting diverse, high-quality applicants – especially women and underrepresented talent.

To widen your reach:

• + Clearly label which qualifications are essential vs. preferred.
• + Focus on skills and outcomes, not just years of experience.
• + Emphasize transferable skills (e.g., communication, collaboration, adaptability).

Example: 

“Experience leading integrated campaigns across multiple channels” instead of “7+ years in marketing management required.”

Highlight Growth, Not Just Expectations

Ambitious marketers and creatives are driven by challenge and progression. Use your job description to show where this role can lead.

Mention:

• + How success will be measured.
• + Future opportunities (career path, exposure to leadership, cross-functional projects)
• + Learning and development programs.

This signals that you invest in your people, and that this role is more than a short-term seat to fill.

Add a Personal, Human Touch

Replace impersonal phrases like “the successful candidate will…” with “you will…” to speak directly to the reader.

Example:

“You’ll collaborate with a dynamic creative team to develop campaigns that inspire action.”

This subtle shift builds connection and helps job seekers imagine themselves in the role.

Include Compensation Transparency (When Possible)

Candidates appreciate honesty. In provinces like BC, salary transparency is now required. And even when it’s optional, sharing a range boosts trust and the quality of applications you receive.

If exact figures aren’t possible, mention benefits, flexible work options, or growth opportunities to give candidates a clear sense of total value.

End With an Inviting, Clear Call to Action

Encourage next steps that feel approachable:

“Sound like your kind of challenge? We’d love to hear from you! Apply today or connect with our recruitment team to learn more.”

This is also a great place to link to your careers page.

Final Thoughts

A well-written job description does more than fill a vacancy. It sets the tone for your employer brand, attracts better candidates, and saves you time by engaging the right people from the start.

If you’re ready to elevate your hiring strategy (and your next job post), Smart, Savvy + Associates can help you find exceptional marketing, communications, and creative professionals.