Crafting an enticing job description is essential for attracting top talent in the drilling industry, especially as the market becomes increasingly competitive due to infrastructure expansions and green initiatives. 

The best way to write a job description that lures new drilling hires is to highlight the role's importance, set clear expectations, define your company culture, discuss growth opportunities, include competitive pay and benefits, celebrate DEI, and end with a strong call to action.

However, as a drilling company owner or manager looking for employees who are in it for the long haul, this is often easier said than done. In fact, according to Zippia, 31% of employees quit within the first six months of starting a new job, and many of these employees cite job disillusionment as the cause. Fortunately, with the right outline and strategy, any drilling leader can quickly find and retain the right team.

To help, here's a comprehensive guide on how to create job descriptions that not only draw in new hires but also set clear expectations about the role and the culture of your company.

Step 1: Highlight the Excitement and Importance of the Role

Start your job description with an engaging opener that captures the essence and excitement of the work. Instead of the usual “great pay and benefits,” paint a picture of the daily activities and the importance of the role in broader terms, such as community impact and technological advancements. For example, phrases like "We play in the mud every day—come join us if you enjoy hands-on work on a drill rig" or "At [Your Company Name], we provide essential resources like water to rural communities, powering civilization’s progress."

Step 2: Set Clear Expectations

Clearly outline the job's duties and expectations. This includes not just the duties and responsibilities but also the less glamorous parts of the job. Be honest about aspects such as out-of-town work, erratic hours, and the physical nature of the job. This transparency helps align expectations and reduces turnover by ensuring candidates know what they are signing up for from the start.

Step 3: Define Your Company Culture

Describe your company's culture and how it aligns with environmental stewardship, safety, and innovation. Highlight how your company contributes to environmental sustainability or embraces cutting-edge drilling technologies. This will not only attract candidates aligned with these values but also position your company as a forward-thinking leader in the industry.

Step 4: Discuss Career Development and Growth Opportunities

Emphasize the potential for career growth and development within your company. Mention specific training programs, potential career paths, and advancement opportunities. This shows prospective employees that they can have a future at your company, appealing particularly to the younger generation who value personal growth and career development.

Step 5: Include Competitive Pay and Benefits

While it should not be the opener, it is important to include details about competitive pay and benefits. Ensure you mention any unique benefits your company offers, such as special insurance, retirement plans, or family-friendly policies that might appeal to prospective employees looking for a supportive work environment.

Step 6: Encourage Diversity and Inclusion

State clearly that your company values diversity and seeks individuals from all walks of life. This includes not just young individuals but anyone capable and enthusiastic about the role, reflecting a modern, inclusive approach to recruitment.

Step 7: Call to Action

End your job description with a strong call to action. Invite candidates to apply and provide clear instructions on how to do so. This can include directing them to your company’s careers page, providing a specific email for resume submissions, or detailing the application process.

Conclusion

By following these steps, drilling company owners and managers can write job descriptions that not only attract qualified candidates but also convey the company’s values and expectations clearly. This approach not only enhances the quality of applicants but also ensures that new hires are well-aligned with the company’s culture and long-term goals, ultimately supporting retention and business growth in the competitive drilling industry.

To hear more about this subject from industry leaders, take a look at this edition of the ‘Ask Brock’ series, ‘Writing Job Descriptions to Lure New Drilling Hires.’