How to Format a Job Description for a Returnship Program

Written By Jeff Monaghan

A successful hiring process requires many things, one of which is a properly formatted job description. A quick Google search can provide quite a bit of information about job descriptions and the subject of hiring and how to do it well. But hiring Returners is different. It requires a unique process and a very specific type of job description in order to persuade this unique talent pool to apply. 

Most job descriptions begin with an overview of the company, and a job posting for returners is no different. This is the one place where a standard template used for other company job descriptions can be used. A compelling, succinct overview works just fine.   

Next comes the job description/responsibilities. This section should be clear and descriptive but not overwhelming. Remember, the goal is to get qualified returner candidates to apply, not to list every little detail about the responsibilities of the role. Doing so may result in a returner feeling like they won’t be able to perform in the role even if they are a great fit. Keep this section to the core responsibilities of the role. 

(Read: A Comprehensive Guide to Implementing a Successful Returnship Program)

The next section is typically a list of the requirements a candidate must have to be considered for the role. The challenge here will be to narrow the list to 4-5 bullet points. This can be a challenge but is a must if you want to see the best results. A study done by Hewlett-Packard, and supported by a similar study from LinkedIn, determined that women typically don’t apply to a role unless they feel they have 100% of the skills required. For returners, the hesitancy to apply is even greater. Keeping the requirements section to 4-5 key bullet points will increase the number of applicants. 

It's entirely okay to also list 3-5 desirable skills in the next section. Just be sure to list them as desirable and not required.  

The last section can be one or two paragraphs about what it's like to work at the company. This is a good place to list any Employee Resource Groups (ERGs). These groups are usually voluntary, employee-led groups that foster a diverse, inclusive workplace aligned with organizational mission, values, goals, business practices, and objectives. 

The job description is key to any successful returnship program. Getting it right will set the program up for success from the very start. 

Women Back to Work is the leading provider of customized Full Service Returnship Programs for medium and large companies across the US and India.

Jeff Monaghan
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