The best career websites do more than just list job openings — they offer a candidate-first experience that drives conversions and bolsters employer branding. A well-designed career page is a key differentiator as competition for top talent intensifies.
So, what do the best career websites have in common?
What is a career website and career page?
A career website serves as a central hub where candidates can explore everything about an organization’s opportunities, culture, and values, while a career page typically focuses on specific job openings. Both play pivotal roles in the recruitment process and in establishing a strong employer brand. Career websites offer a broader overview of an organization, helping potential candidates gain a sense of whether the company is a good cultural fit, whereas career pages dive into the details of specific roles.
Why you need an engaging and compelling career website
An engaging career website is essential for attracting top talent, showcasing your employer brand, and creating a positive candidate experience. It can be the key to standing out in a competitive talent market.
Attracting top talent
Did you know that 90% of organizations use career websites to attract talent? A compelling career website is essential in acting as a magnet for high-quality candidates. With engaging content, a website can differentiate your organization from competitors.
Showcasing a strong employer brand
Your career website and pages should reflect your organization’s culture and values. A well-designed page enhances your employer brand, leaving a lasting impression on potential candidates that can influence their decision to apply.
Improving candidate experience
A user-friendly, visually appealing career page is more likely to leave candidates with a positive experience. This satisfaction translates to higher application rates, especially when the page is designed with easy navigation and accessibility in mind.
Increasing application rates
Engaging content directly impacts the number of applications. By making the application process clear, simple, and inviting, you’ll increase the chances of candidates submitting their resumes.
Communicating organizational culture
Highlighting employee testimonials, “day-in-the-life” videos, and organizational events gives an authentic look at what it’s like to work at your organization. This transparent representation of culture attracts candidates who are aligned with your values. It is also a perfect place to target your ideal candidates with content aligned to their goals. For example, if you are seeking early career talent, boast your growth programs and tuition reimbursement opportunities.
Enhancing job post visibility
Clear, engaging, and strategically placed job postings on career websites improve visibility and interest. Effective listings with strong calls-to-action (CTAs) ensure candidates can easily find and apply for the right positions.
Retaining interest of potential candidates
Even if a candidate isn’t ready to apply, an engaging career page can keep them interested. Regularly updated content helps to maintain their connection with your brand until the right opportunity arises.
Boosting employee referrals
A strong career website can also encourage current employees to refer candidates. With clear career paths and engaging content, employees feel more confident sharing opportunities within their networks. Learn more about internal mobility here.
Key elements of top career websites
The best career websites share common features that enhance the candidate experience and help organizations attract top talent. Below are the essential elements that set these websites apart.
User-friendly navigation
One hallmark of a successful career website is intuitive design. Clear menus, job search filters, and easy-to-find application buttons enhance the candidate experience.
Mobile optimization
Mobile-friendly design is a must. With a significant number of candidates accessing career websites via mobile devices, an optimized experience can significantly boost application rates.
Engaging and informative content
Content is king on career websites. From employee testimonials to insights into career growth opportunities, engaging content can set your organization apart and encourage candidates to apply.
Clear and attractive job listings
Effective job postings are clear, concise, and detailed. To ensure that candidates understand the roles being offered, use best practices for job descriptions. Learn more here.
Employer branding and visual appeal
Your employer brand needs to shine through on your career website. Use visuals, branding elements, and multimedia to create a lasting impression on visitors.
Easy application process
A streamlined application process is key. Ensure that your application forms are user-friendly and that the submission process is straightforward to reduce candidate drop-off.
Examples of top career websites
Some organizations stand out for their career websites. These organizations incorporate the best practices discussed, offering excellent case studies in what works. These examples illustrate how a well-designed career page can attract top talent, whether it’s intuitive navigation, engaging content, or a mobile-optimized experience.
Check out three examples from leading organizations in our job description guide.
Want to learn more about enhancing your career website?
Discover how Symphony Talent’s SFX Career Websites can save talent acquisition teams valuable time and uncover opportunities to reduce costs, all in service of delivering a personalized, engaging candidate experience.
Third-party research shows that an organization with 75,000 employees and approximately 20,000 hires per year will be able to:
- Reduce time spent on administrative recruiting tasks by 15%
- Decrease cost per hire by 5% with more targeted spend
- Reduce employee turnover by 5%
- Consolidate existing systems
