Growing job requirements deter applicants

Overly stringent job descriptions are deterring promising applicants, especially recent graduates. A third of grads won't apply if their major doesn't match the listing, per a Handshake/SHRM study. Laura Mazzullo of East Side Staffing advises limiting descriptions to 3-5 core skills plus 3-5 desired cultural traits. She says numerous required qualifications paint an unrealistic "magical unicorn" ideal. Instead, focus on transferable skills and capacity for growth.

Read more about requirements best practices amid a changing skill landscape.

Furthermore, exact role matches are rare. Managers should articulate needs rather than demand cookie-cutter clones of past hires. Mazzullo encourages expanding candidate pools to boost diversity and innovation. For instance, question unnecessary certifications and consider alternatives. The goal is qualified candidates who can excel after some development.

Finally, recruiters must give constructive feedback to hiring managers on problematic listings. Many shy away from this perceived overstep. However, most managers want input to improve, Mazzullo states. Recruiters should voice concerns directly, customize solutions and rewrite poor descriptions. More tailored, realistic postings will attract fitting applicants.