How to... write a great advert
The way we speak about scouts can make a huge difference – allowing us to reach new audiences and bring brilliant new people onboard as a result.
Use the drop-down boxes below to find out more about what to say and how to say it, using our range of ready-made resources.
- Have a think about the tasks that you need help with and the skills that are needed for this task. You’ll have lots more success if you advertise for help with a specific task rather than for a role. For example, if you need more adult help in the beaver section, you might advertise for someone to organise craft activities and who is great at playing games rather than simply for a ‘beaver leader’.
- Make the adverts fun! The 'How we talk' guide will be a huge help when you’re writing your adverts.
- Start with a catchy title and include photos and images relevant to the task to grab people’s attention.
- Summarise what’s involved with details of when, where and how often they will be needed.
- Include contact details so they can get in touch.
- You’ll find loads of ad examples on our joining pages click the links below to see them:
- Group Lead Volunteer
- Squirrel Team
- Beaver Team
- Cub Team
- Scout Team
- Group Chair
- Group Secretary
- Group Treasurer
- Trustee (Board Member)
- Playgroup Champion
- Group Supporter Group Support Team Member)
- Equipment Coordinator (Quartermaster)
- Explorer team
Think about promoting ways to get involved, not fixed roles
You’re likely to have more success if you focus on how people can contribute to the team, rather than trying to fill specific roles.
Before writing your advert, think about:
- What tasks or responsibilities does the team need support with?
- What skills could help with these tasks?
- What qualities or life experiences would make someone a great addition to the team?
- What interests might attract someone to get involved?
Instead of advertising for a specific role like a “Beaver Leader”, you might invite people to join the Beaver Team by highlighting opportunities to:
- Help run activities and support young people
- Get involved with crafts, games or outdoor activities
- Bring energy, enthusiasm and new ideas to sessions
- Support young people in a caring and positive way
This approach helps people see that they don’t need to “fit” a fixed role—they can contribute in a way that works for them. It also reinforces that they’ll be part of a supportive team, where responsibilities are shared and everyone plays a part in delivering great Scouting experiences.