Hiring in public health can be tough. There’s growing demand for skilled professionals—and they often have plenty of options. That’s why writing a clear, compelling job ad isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential.
At Public Health Jobs, we see thousands of job ads. The best ones have a few things in common. Here’s how to write an ad that gets noticed by the right candidates—and encourages them to hit “Apply.”
1. 🎯 Use a Clear, Searchable Job Title
Stick to terms people actually search for. That means avoiding internal jargon or creative titles like “Wellbeing Wizard.” Instead, go with something industry standard like:
- Health Improvement Practitioner
- Public Health Analyst
- Programme Manager – Sexual Health
You’ll show up in more searches—and attract people who already know what the role is about.
2. 🧲 Start with a Compelling Opening
The first few lines matter. Use them to tell candidates why this role matters and why they should care. Think impact, mission, and opportunity.
Example:
“Help reduce health inequalities across London by leading community-based prevention programmes in high-need boroughs.”
That’s a lot more engaging than:
“We are seeking a Health Improvement Officer to join our team.”
3. 🛠️ Focus on Outcomes, Not Just Duties
Instead of a long list of tasks, highlight what the successful candidate will achieve in their role.
Try this:
“In your first 6 months, you’ll lead the delivery of our new obesity prevention strategy targeting under-18s.”
This shows ambition, purpose, and impact—all things that matter to public health professionals.
4. 💬 Be Honest and Authentic
Candidates can smell boilerplate from a mile away. Talk like a human. Share what makes your team or service special—and be real about challenges too.
Example:
“We’re a small team with big ambitions. The pace is fast, the caseload is high—but your work genuinely changes lives.”
That kind of honesty builds trust.
5. 📝 Don’t Overload with Requirements
Many great candidates—especially women and those from underrepresented groups—won’t apply unless they meet all listed criteria. So make sure you separate essential from desirable skills.
Use headers like:
- What we’re looking for (must-haves)
- Nice to have (but not essential)
It opens the door to more diverse talent.
6. 💰 Share Salary and Benefits
Yes, really. Ads with salary info get more applications—and better ones too. Be transparent. If there’s a banding (e.g., Agenda for Change), include it. Highlight benefits like:
- Flexible working or compressed hours
- Training budgets
- Annual leave above statutory minimum
- Pension scheme (especially if NHS or LGPS)
We’re always surprised by how many job ads leave out hybrid working—even when we know it’s part of the role!
7. 📱 Make Applying Easy
If people need to create an account, upload a CV and retype it all into a form—they’ll bounce. Make it as easy as possible. And make sure your careers page is mobile-friendly—many public health professionals search on the go.
8. 🌍 Use Inclusive Language
Avoid language that might unintentionally exclude people. For example, phrases like “rockstar” or “aggressive growth targets” can feel off-putting. Tools like Gender Decoder can help you fine-tune your language.
9. 🔄 Keep Testing and Improving
Try A/B testing different titles or intros. See which ones get more clicks or applications. Over time, you’ll learn what works best for your organisation—and your ideal candidates.
Final Thought
Writing a great job ad isn’t just about filling a vacancy—it’s about attracting the people who will shape the future of public health. Get your ad right, and you’ll spend less time sifting through mismatched CVs—and more time interviewing great candidates.
Need help? We’re here to support you. Whether you're writing your first ad or your hundredth, Public Health Jobs can help you reach the right people, faster.