7 min read
Job Posting Language & Formatting
Inclusive, concrete wording and a scannable layout.
Jobs
Guidelines
Table of contents
≤ 20
Words per sentence
Short, active voice
2–3
Key sections first
Mission, tasks, must‑haves
0
Jargon & clichés
Avoid entirely
Bias‑free wording
Use neutral terms
‘People’, not ‘guys’; avoid age markers.
Describe criteria
Observable, job‑relevant behaviors.
Readable layout
Headings & lists
Chunk responsibilities/requirements.
Consistent structure
Same order across postings.
Examples
| Before | After |
|---|---|
| Team player | Collaborate in weekly cross‑team design reviews |
| Great communication | Facilitate stakeholder sync; summarize decisions |
Clear language equals fair access.
— Career Wiki Editorial
Do/Don’t
Use plain language
Short sentences, concrete verbs, no jargon.
Avoid bias
Inclusive terms and neutral criteria.
Readable layout
Headings, lists, and consistent structure.
No walls of text
Chunk content into scannable blocks.