If a job advert doesn't attract the right candidates, what are your options?

1/ Readvertise, with no changes. This can work, if a new candidate comes to market, or they didn't happen to notice it the first time. Relies on luck.

2/ Readvertise the same advert in a different place. Go where the candidates are. Whether it's effective or not depends on the quality of your advert and if it appeals.

3/ Readvertise the same advert with a higher salary or lower requirement. This can work for marginal readers, but beware of salary and role sustainability.

4/ Promote internally. If they've been making do without this role, perhaps there's good reason?

5/ Change how you access candidates. Ineffective adverts don't capture the whole market. Headhunting, interims, temps, consultants, networking, referrals, talent pools, market mapping, candidate pipelining are different avenues. However, if your messaging is based on your advert, will it be effective?

6/ Audit your role from first principles. Was it a realistic representation of your needs and what good looks in a candidate?

7/ Review your advert, putting yourself in the shoes of your acceptable candidates. Have you told them why they should consider applying, or just what you want? Is your meaning trapped in your head?

If you're a decent UK employer, I can help with 5, 6 and 7 - DM me.

The first advert review is free, with no obligation.