And The Simple Four-Step Formula to Guide You
In our last post, How to Improve your DSP Ohio Job Posting, we talked about the mindset and approach to make your job postings more attractive to potential applicants.
Now that we’re on the same page, let’s cover how to motivate more people to apply for Direct Support Professional jobs.
To do that we’re going to use the “AIDA” copywriting formula. So what does AIDA stand for?
- Attention
- Interest
- Desire
- Action
Before we dive-in, please keep one critical thing in your mind—who you are writing for. Think about the person who is considering applying to be a Direct Support Professional.
- Have they been a DSP before?
- Do they even know what a DSP is and does?
- What is motivating them to help people with developmental disabilities?
By answering those questions, you’ll have a clearer idea of who you’re writing for. (Tip: when you write, imagine you’re having a cup of coffee with the person. Then write how you’d chat with them.)
ATTENTION
First section of the DSP Ohio job posting
Simply stated, if you don’t grab someone’s attention quickly, they won’t keep reading.
What do you have to offer that applicants really want?
That might be:
- bonus
- vacation time/pay
- medical benefits
TRAP TO AVOID:
Being vague, for example, “We offer great benefits!” People want specifics.
Now that you’ve caught their attention, let’s create…
INTEREST
“Our Opportunities” section
People want to immediately know:
- What will I be doing?
- When and where will I be working?
- Do I need training or previous experience?
So list specifics about:
- available positions
- shifts
- locations
- and required training/experience
Listing these is a good starting point, but don’t stop here. Go into more detail to increase interest.
Walk them through what they’ll do on a daily and weekly basis. Help them imagine doing the job.
TRAP TO AVOID:
Don’t assume because you have an open position and someone is looking for a job that they want your job.
If someone has read this far and is interested in your job, it’s time to build…
DESIRE
“Why Work for Us?” section
Have one of your current DSPs tell you a story about the impact they’ve had on someone’s life. Better yet, show them. Record a one-minute video of the DSP sharing their story.
You’ll build desire by helping the applicant envision that in their future.
Once the applicant wants the job, it’s time to give them a clear next step.
ACTION
“Find us Online” section
Take them directly to your online application. Make it as easy and fast as possible for people to apply.
Plus, tell them what to expect next. How soon will you review their initial application and get back to them?
TRAP TO AVOID:
Directing them to your homepage. This is a trap because the applicant now has to search around your site for where to apply. There’s no guarantee they’ll have the patience to do that.
BONUS TIP
“Contact Us” section
By the phone number, add the name of the person they should ask for when calling.
SUMMARY:
Applicants have many opportunities available on DSP Ohio. Since your goal is to get more applicants, it’s critical to capture people’s attention.
Then you need to cover what interests them and tell them a story that will make the right applicant want the job.
Finally, make it easy for them to start the application process.
If you do that, you’ll likely motivate more people to apply.
Blitz Media Design helps DD nonprofits save money and get their time back by attracting and retaining more DSPs with simple web tools and process consulting.
