Writing

How to Write a Job Summary

Spencer LanoueSpencer Lanoue
Writing

Crafting a job summary might seem straightforward, but it’s a bit like trying to write a haiku. Short and simple at first glance, yet requiring skill and precision to do it right. In this guide, I’ll walk you through creating a job summary that not only captures the essence of the role but also attracts the right candidates.

Why a Job Summary Matters

Let’s kick things off with why a job summary is more than just a few lines at the top of a job description. Think of it as the opening scene of a movie. It sets the tone, grabs attention, and gives a sneak peek into what’s to come. A good job summary will intrigue the right candidates and convince them to read further.

A well-crafted job summary helps clarify the role, distinguishing it from dozens of others that a potential candidate might be considering. It’s also a great tool for hiring managers and recruiters to ensure they’re on the same page about the role’s core responsibilities and requirements.

Start with the Job Title

The job title is your headline, and it needs to be both accurate and enticing. You want to strike a balance between being specific and appealing. Consider the difference between “Customer Service Guru” and “Customer Service Representative.” While the former might sound fun, it may not convey the professionalism or scope of the role. Conversely, the latter is straightforward but might not stand out.

Instead, think about combining clarity with a hint of excitement. For example, “Customer Experience Specialist” could be a happy medium. It suggests a focus on customer interaction but also hints at a dynamic role.

Define the Main Purpose

Next up is the core purpose of the role. This is where you succinctly state why the job exists and its primary objectives. It’s like the thesis statement of your job summary. Here’s a tip. Focus on results rather than tasks. Instead of listing what the employee will do, highlight what they will achieve.

For example, instead of saying, “Manage the company’s social media accounts,” you might say, “Drive engagement and brand awareness through strategic management of social media channels.” See the difference? The latter not only tells what the job entails but also gives a sense of the impact.

Highlight Key Responsibilities

While you want to avoid turning your summary into a laundry list, mentioning a few key responsibilities can provide context. Focus on the most critical aspects that define the role. You’re aiming for a snapshot, not a full gallery.

For instance, in a job summary for a Project Manager position, you might include:

- Lead cross-functional teams to ensure project milestones are met.
- Develop and manage project budgets and timelines.
- Facilitate communication between stakeholders to align project goals.

These bullet points offer a glimpse into the daily activities while keeping the focus on core duties.

Specify Required Qualifications

Here’s where you outline the must-have skills and experience. Be specific but not overly restrictive. If your list reads like a wish list, you might scare away qualified candidates who don’t meet every single criterion.

Consider breaking down qualifications into “required” and “preferred” categories. This way, you set the bar while also allowing room for different backgrounds. For example:

Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, or related field.
- 3+ years of experience in digital marketing.

Preferred:
- Experience with SEO and SEM.
- Strong knowledge of Google Analytics.

This approach helps you attract a broader range of candidates without sacrificing quality.

Showcase Company Culture

A job summary isn’t just about the role; it’s about fitting into the bigger picture of the organization. Let candidates know what it’s like to work with you. Are you a fast-paced startup? A well-established firm with a relaxed atmosphere?

Your job summary is a great place to highlight a few cultural aspects that make your company unique. For instance, “Join a dynamic team of innovators at XYZ Corp, where creativity meets collaboration in a fast-paced environment.” This not only paints a picture of the work environment but also signals to candidates who thrive in such settings.

Include Opportunities for Growth

Let’s face it. Everyone wants to know what’s in it for them. Mentioning potential growth opportunities within your job summary can be a powerful motivator for candidates. It shows that you’re invested in their future.

For example, “This role offers a pathway to senior management positions, with opportunities for professional development and specialization.” Such statements can entice candidates who are looking for long-term career prospects.

Keep It Concise and Engaging

A job summary should be brief, ideally no more than four to six sentences. It’s a snapshot, not the whole album. Use concise language and avoid jargon or overly complex sentences.

Remember, your goal is to engage, not overwhelm. Here’s a condensed job summary for a Sales Manager:

Join our dynamic sales team as a Sales Manager, where you’ll lead a group of talented sales professionals to drive growth and exceed targets. With a focus on strategic planning and customer relationships, you’ll play a vital role in our company’s success. Opportunities for advancement and professional development await.

This example provides a clear picture of the role and its benefits while remaining short and sweet.

Don’t Forget Keywords

In today’s digital job market, keywords are crucial for both visibility and relevance. Many companies use applicant tracking systems that screen resumes and job descriptions based on specific terms. That’s why it’s important to include relevant keywords in your job summary.

Think about the words candidates might use to find your job. Include industry-specific terms and any unique skills or tools related to the position. For example, if you’re hiring a data analyst, you might include keywords like “data analysis,” “SQL,” or “Python.”

Don’t overstuff your summary with keywords, though. They should fit naturally into the text. A good rule of thumb is to write for humans first and algorithms second.

Final Thoughts

Writing a job summary is more than just filling out a section of a job posting. It’s about capturing the essence of a role and enticing the right candidates to join your team. With a well-crafted summary, you can highlight what makes the position—and your company—special. And if you’re looking for a tool to help streamline this process, Spell can assist in drafting and refining job descriptions quickly and effectively.

Spencer Lanoue

Spencer Lanoue

Spencer has been working in product and growth for the last 10 years. He's currently Head of Growth at Sugardoh. Before that he worked at Bump Boxes, Buffer, UserTesting, and a few other early-stage startups.