Let’s be honest—in today’s competitive market, a generic job ad simply won't cut it. To attract the most skilled and dedicated farm workers, your job description needs to do more than just list duties; it needs to sell the opportunity.
This is your first impression, and a great ad can save you countless hours by attracting the right people from the start. Here are some key tips for writing a job description that makes your farm stand out from the crowd.
1. Ditch the Generic Title
A standard title like "Farm Hand" is fine, but you can make it more descriptive and appealing. Think about what will grab the attention of your ideal candidate.
- Standard: "Farm Hand Wanted"
- Better: "Experienced Farm Hand for Dairy Operation"
- Even Better: "Full-Time Dairy Farm Hand – Grow Your Career with Our Family Business"
Adding specifics about the role, the farm, or the opportunity helps a candidate instantly know if the job is a good fit.
2. Tell Your Farm's Story
Why should someone want to work for you? The first paragraph of your ad should briefly introduce your farm and its values.
- Talk about your farm: Is it a family-run business with a long history? Is it a modern, large-scale operation with cutting-edge technology?
- Highlight your values: Do you focus on sustainability, team culture, or employee development? Mentioning this can resonate with applicants who share your values.
This adds a personal touch and makes your farm feel like a place people would want to be part of.
3. Be Specific, but Keep it Readable
Your list of duties and responsibilities needs to be clear, but it doesn't have to be a boring wall of text. Use bullet points or short paragraphs to make it easy to scan.
- List responsibilities: Include everything from operating specific machinery to general maintenance and livestock care. This sets clear expectations.
- List required skills: Be honest about what you need. Do they need a specific license (e.g., HR truck license, ChemCert)? Do they need experience with particular crops or animals?
- Don't forget the "soft skills": Mention the importance of a good attitude, reliability, and the ability to work as part of a team.
4. Be Upfront About Compensation and Benefits
One of the biggest frustrations for job seekers is a lack of transparency around pay. If you can, include a salary range or a clear hourly rate.
- Include a range: A range like "$25-$30 per hour" or "$60k-$70k per year" gives applicants a clear idea of the potential.
- Mention perks: Do you offer on-site accommodation? Meals? A vehicle? These are huge factors for many farm workers and can be the deciding factor for an applicant.
5. Include a Strong Call to Action
Make it simple for an interested applicant to take the next step.
- Tell them how to apply: Clearly state what you want them to submit (e.g., resume, cover letter, references).
- Provide your contact details: Make it easy for them to get in touch if they have questions.
Writing a standout job description is a small investment of time that can make a huge difference in the quality of applicants you attract. By putting in the effort to create a clear, compelling ad, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect fit for your farm.