A Step-by-Step Guide to Posting a Job Online

Posting a job online sounds simple, until you actually do it. Suddenly you’re staring at endless platform options, fiddling with job descriptions, and wondering why no one’s applying.

If you want your job ad to actually work, there’s more to it than just hitting "publish." Here’s a straightforward, step-by-step guide to help you get it right.

Step 1: Write a Job Ad That Stands Out

Before you even think about where to post, you need a strong job advert. Not a list of responsibilities. Not your HR template. A real, engaging piece of content that speaks to your ideal candidate.

Focus on:

• A strong headline or opening hook

• What the role involves day to day

• What’s in it for the candidate

• Clear, specific requirements (without the 20-item wishlist)

• Company culture and benefits

• A simple call to action

If you're stuck, this is exactly what Better Job Adverts helps with.

Step 2: Choose the Right Platforms

Not all job boards are created equal. Where you post matters—and it depends on the role you're hiring for.

For general roles:

• Indeed (massive reach, but volume over precision)

• CV-Library (good for UK-based operational and entry-level roles)

  
  

For professional and white-collar roles:

• Reed

• LinkedIn (especially strong for sales, marketing, tech, and leadership roles)

  
  

Specialist platforms might be worth it for niche jobs-just make sure your audience is actually active there.

Step 3: Set the Right Filters and Budget

Most job boards let you filter by location, experience level or industry, use these to make your ad more visible to the right people.

Paid boosts can work well if your role is urgent or highly competitive. But if your ad is strong, you may not need to spend a fortune to get results.

Step 4: Test the Application Process

Before you go live, test the process. Does the “Apply” button actually work? Is it easy to use on mobile? Are you asking for ten different uploads and a motivational essay?

Tip: Keep it simple. The smoother the apply process, the more likely good candidates will follow through.

Step 5: Track and Tweak

After your ad goes live, check performance after a few days. Are you getting views but no clicks? Clicks but no applications? It could be the title, salary info, or just where it's listed.

Many job boards give you basic analytics. If something’s not working, tweak the copy or try a different platform. And don’t forget to reply to applicants, ghosting helps no one.

Bonus Step: Let Someone Else Handle It

If this sounds like a faff (and let’s be honest, it can be), services like Better Job Adverts handle the heavy lifting. We write the ad, post it on the best boards, and send the CVs straight to you.

You stay in control, we do the legwork.

Final Thought

Posting a job online isn’t rocket science, but it’s not fire-and-forget either. Put some care into your ad, choose the right platforms, and check in on how it’s doing. A little effort upfront can save you weeks of wasted time and help you land someone genuinely great.