Getting the job advert right is a key element of attracting the best candidate for the role from a diverse range of suitable applicants. The aim of the advert is to attract interest, clearly communicate the essential points, and to inform the candidate how apply. These principles apply regardless of the method selected to advertise the position.
There are additional requirements and regulations that you need to adhere to if you anticipate your advert will attract candidates from outside the EEA that may require a Certificate of Sponsorship. You will normally need to meet the Resident Labour Market Test (RLMT) (i.e. to show that efforts were made to find a suitable person for the role who is already a settled worker in the UK but none was found). In these instances, please refer to the comprehensive guidance at http://www.hr.admin.cam.ac.uk/recruitment/step-2-recruitment-planning/advertise-vacancy/what-advertise.
Advertising the position widely will ensure that you attract a diverse pool of candidates. Over recent years, on-line advertising has become a much more effective medium to attract candidates than print advertising and can provide both targeted and universal coverage. Advertising in print media can be expensive. Therefore when using print media, a shortened advert to direct candidates to the more detailed advert on the University jobs pages is the most cost effective approach.
This quick "how to" reference guide provides information on what to include, together with some useful tips and areas of diversity to consider.
How to write a recruitment advert (Word)
How to write a recruitment advert (PDF)