9 Tips for Writing Good Restaurant Job Descriptions

1.) Make the Headline Interesting: When writing the headline, keep in mind what makes your opportunity unique, what makes the location or environment attractive, and any other special qualities the job offers. Consider a descriptive headline like "Chef Job in New York - Flexible Hours at Top Manhattan Restaurant." And don't use more than one exclamation point at the end of the headline or make suspicious claims like "Make Big $$$$!!!!"

2.) Use Descriptive Adjectives: Using appropriate language to describe the job and environment can help attract the right candidate. For example, use descriptive adjectives like "fast-paced," "team-oriented," or "friendly setting." This helps match potential candidate talents to the specific job.

3.) Be Specific: Beyond the job title and a detailed description, be sure to include what level of experience the applicant must possess, particular skills, the department or person the applicant will report to and a daily snapshot of the job,

4.) Include a Description of the Restaurant: Make sure to list the restaurant's name, location, and food types served. Also include the size of the restaurant, the type of atmosphere, and any other important facts about the location. Consider including an image or two of the restaurant's exterior and interior...you spent a lot of money on how your restaurant looks - use it to help recruit good employees too.

5.) Retain Flexibility: To reduce potential long-term friction, consider incorporating a note at the end of the description that says: This is a general job description - expected duties may vary.

6.) Be Careful When Writing About Salary and Benefits: While you do want to address compensation and benefits in the listing, you should remain flexible by including text like, "We offer a competitive salary and benefits package," or something similar. Make the text fit what you're offering, but including a dollar figure could limit the potential candidate pool.

7.) Don't Discriminate: Stay away from listing age or gender requirements which can be considered discriminatory and cause for potential legal action.

8.) Tell Candidates How to Apply: List where interested job candidates can apply, including in person, via e-mail, over the phone, etc. Include the hiring manager's contact information and, if applying by email, what the subject line should say.

9.) Make Sure to Have Funding In Place to Pay Everyone: All these employees will be expensive. Consider raising capital from a community-funding site like Foodstart.com where restaurant owners can make a pitch and raise start-up funding from interested friends, family, or customers in exchange for perks and rewards.