Setting Fair Job Requirements: Skills Over Paper
Unrealistic requirements shut out good people. Here is how to set requirements that match the real job.
Many job adverts ask for too much: a long list of degrees, years of experience and personal traits that have nothing to do with the work. This reduces your pool of talent.
Start with the actual work
List the tasks the person will do. For each task, ask: what skill or knowledge is truly needed?
Separate essential from helpful
- Essential: the person cannot do the job safely or properly without it.
- Helpful: it would be an advantage, but it can be learned.
Keep the essential list short.
Be careful with degree requirements
A degree can be important for some roles, such as engineering or medicine. For others, skills, experience and attitude may matter more. Ask yourself whether the work really needs the certificate.
Experience: be realistic
Entry-level roles should not require several years of experience. If you want to hire beginners, say so and plan to train.
Avoid unnecessary restrictions
Do not add requirements about age, marital status, appearance or background unless they are truly connected to the job. Focus on what the person can do.
Think about skills tests
A short practical task can show more than a certificate. For example, a writing task for a content role or a mock sales call for a sales role.
Offer training
If a person has the right attitude and base skills, you can teach the rest. This widens your pool and builds loyalty.
Review your adverts
Ask a colleague to read your advert. Does it make sense? Is anything unclear or unfair?
Benefits of fair requirements
- More qualified applicants
- Better diversity of thinking
- Faster hiring
- Stronger reputation
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