HTML

    What is HTML?

    HyperText Markup Language (HTML) is the standard markup language for creating web pages and web browsers. At the most basic level, in order to create a website, HTML documents will be integrated with a CSS with all of the relevant html tags and html elements. Email also uses HTML as the format of rich text messages that include links, stylised text, tables, and other elements that cannot be represented in plain text.

    Hypertext Markup Language Basics

    Understanding the basics of html in recruitment can be very useful, in particular when creating job postings, email templates, or editing career pages. Each HTML element performs a different function and there are a few that you should be aware of:

    HTML Structure

    A HTML page will contain HTML elements that define the structure of web pages and are enclosed within html tags, typically written in angle brackets. For example, <head>, and <body>.

    An opening tag in HTML is a fundamental element used to define the beginning of an HTML element. It is enclosed in angle brackets (< >) and precedes the content or structure it defines. Opening tags are paired with a closing tag (</ >) to enclose content within them.

    A HTML page typically begins with a document type declaration that tells a web browser what version of HTML a document is written in. A document type declaration typically looks like: <!DOCTYPE html>.

    Heading level

    HTML headings provide 6 heading levels, from <h1> to <h6>, which represents the hierarchy and importance of different elements and headings on a web page.

    The body of the text is typically contained within <body> and shows the main content inside the document. Both the heading and body within a HTML page are also known as a root element.

    Links

    Hyperlinks are created using the <a> anchor tag, which allows users to navigate between web pages or sections within web pages. These are commonly called a href attribute. Links are used in job postings to direct candidates to an application page, a job board, company website, and more. Candidates will see hyperlinks throughout their job search, so it’s a good thing to have an understanding of as a recruiter.

    Why does HTML matter in recruitment?

    It may seem like HTML is a complex entity that you don’t need to understand – however, a basic understanding of the simpler elements can be really beneficial to your recruitment agency.

    Job postings

    It may not seem like the formatting of a job listing is important, however, a well structured job post often gathers more interest than a badly put together posting on a job portal. The effective use of headings, paragraphs and lists to organise all the content makes things easier for job applicants and encourages applications.

    Website Management

    If you have a website that you showcase job listings on, a basic understanding of HTML can help you to customise, organise and maintain your website, likely making your website more user friendly in the process.

    Emails

    HTML is used extensively when creating formatted email templates. If your agency is sending frequent emails, either individually or using a recruitment software such as Eclipse CRM, then knowledge of HTML can help you design appealing templates that encourage engagement.

    While Eclipse recruitment software is not a HTML tool, it provides data that informs decisions when it comes to optimising job listings and candidate engagement strategies. In turn, this influences how the HTML will be used to effectively present information to job seekers and clients alike.