How Employers in Ghana Can Use Job Portals to Recruit Better Candidates (Step-by-Step)

Introduction

Recruitment in Ghana has shifted significantly in recent years. While word-of-mouth and walk-in applications still exist, job portals have become one of the most effective ways for employers to reach qualified, job-ready candidates at scale.

However, simply posting a vacancy online does not guarantee quality applicants. Employers who use job portals strategically get better candidates, faster hiring timelines, and improved employer branding.

This guide shows how employers in Ghana can use job portals effectively to improve recruitment outcomes.

Why Job Portals Matter for Employers in Ghana

Job portals provide employers with:

• Access to a large pool of active job seekers
• Targeted reach by industry, role, and location
• Faster application collection and screening (this cannot be emphasized enough)
• Improved employer visibility and brand recognition

For SMEs, startups, NGOs, and large organisations alike, job portals help level the recruitment playing field.

Step 1: Choose Clear, Search-Friendly Job Titles

Your job title determines whether candidates even see your listing.

Avoid internal or vague titles like:

• “Officer II”
• “Executive”
• “Operations Personnel”

Use clear, searchable titles such as:

• “Accounts Officer”
• “Sales Executive (FMCG)”
• “Customer Service Representative – Accra”

Clear titles attract the right candidates and improve visibility on job portals.

Step 2: Write Job Descriptions That Filter Candidates

A well-written job description saves time by attracting suitable applicants and discouraging unqualified ones.

Include:

• Key responsibilities
• Required skills and experience
• Location and working hours
• Contract type (full-time, part-time, contract)
• Growth opportunities (where applicable)

Avoid vague phrases that confuse candidates or inflate expectations.

Step 3: Strengthen Your Employer Profile on the Job Portal

Candidates often research employers before applying.

Ensure your employer profile includes:

• A brief company overview
• Clear business focus
• Office location(s)
• Professional logo or branding

A strong profile builds trust and attracts more serious applicants.

Step 4: Optimise Your Job Post for Visibility

Small optimisations can significantly improve the quality and quantity of applications.

Employers should:

• Use relevant keywords in job descriptions
• Select the correct job category and industry
• Specify location clearly
• Avoid posting too many roles with identical wording

Optimised listings are easier for the right candidates to find.

Step 5: Screen Applicants Systematically

Job portals make screening easier – but only if employers use a clear process.

Best practices include:

• Define must-have vs nice-to-have criteria
• Shortlist using consistent standards
• Review CVs for skills relevance, not just job titles
• Keep brief notes on shortlisted candidates

A structured approach improves fairness and hiring quality.

Step 6: Respond to Candidates Promptly

Slow response times damage employer reputation.

Good practice includes:

• Acknowledge applications where possible
• Inform shortlisted candidates quickly
• Communicate rejections respectfully
• Avoid leaving candidates without feedback

Professional communication enhances your employer brand on job portals.

Step 7: Use Job Portal Insights to Improve Results

If available, use analytics to understand:

• How many views your job post receives
• Where applicants drop off
• Which roles attract better candidates

Adjust job titles, descriptions, and posting times based on performance data.

Step 8: Combine Job Portals With Other Hiring Channels

Job portals work best when combined with:

• Employee referrals
• Professional networks
• Company career pages
• Social media promotion

This multi-channel approach improves reach and candidate quality.

How Job Portals Improve Employer Branding

Consistent presence on a reputable job portal:

• Increases employer visibility
• Builds brand recognition among job seekers
• Positions your organisation as accessible and professional

Employer branding directly affects the quality of applicants you attract.

Final Thoughts: Recruitment Is a System, Not a Single Post

Successful hiring in Ghana requires more than posting vacancies. Employers who approach job portals strategically benefit from:

• Higher quality applicants
• Faster hiring cycles
• Stronger employer reputation
• Reduced recruitment costs

By refining how you use job portals, recruitment becomes more predictable, efficient, and effective.

For employers seeking visibility, qualified candidates, and recruitment insights in Ghana, GhanaCareers.com remains a reliable hiring partner.