Bad job postings attract bad applicants. A vague listing that says “seeking experienced electrician, must have 5 years experience, valid license, competitive pay” will get you either no response or a pile of unqualified resumes. Here’s how to write a job posting that attracts the journeymen you want. Be specific about the work: commercial service work, residential new construction, industrial maintenance, low voltage and structured cabling - specify what you actually do.
Publish your pay range. “Competitive pay” means nothing; it signals that you haven’t thought about what the position is worth or you’re afraid your number won’t be competitive. Good candidates have options, and they won’t apply to mystery-pay listings if they have another offer in hand with a published range. Publishing your range also pre-qualifies applicants.
Sell your company, not just the job. Tell candidates what’s good about working for you: steady work, newer equipment, good team culture, learning opportunities, clear path to advancement, solid benefits. Good journeymen are not desperate - they’re choosing among multiple options. Give them a reason to choose you over the next listing.