The Right Way to Read a Job Description

Sun Jul 28 2024

The Right Way to Read a Job Description

Are You Really Reading Job Descriptions?

When was the last time you meticulously examined a job description? If you're in the job market, you might say "last night" or "just a few minutes ago." However, pause and ask yourself: When was the last time you genuinely took the time to digest every word in a job posting? Your response might differ.

Many job seekers tend to skim through job descriptions before applying, often without ever revisiting the details, according to Muse career coach Jennifer Fink, CEO of Fink Development. This approach may seem efficient, particularly when trying to apply to numerous openings, but it can ultimately lead to a lengthy job search or missing out on a position you could have excelled in.

By thoroughly reviewing every job description, highlighting key information, and applying it appropriately, you can significantly reduce the number of applications you need to submit, elevate your chances of securing interviews, prepare effectively for those interviews, and make a well-informed decision about the job's suitability for you.

Understanding Job Descriptions: What Are They and Why Do They Matter?

A job description, sometimes referred to as a job posting or listing, provides essential information about an open position shared by employers on platforms like LinkedIn or their own websites. It encompasses details about the role, the company, the desired qualifications, and specifics regarding the application process.

Heather Yurovsky, a Muse career coach and Resume Coach at Shatter & Shine, emphasizes the importance of understanding job descriptions fully. Despite being drawn to apply based on a catchy title or company reputation, truly grasping the job description is vital for your application success.

No matter the role, showcasing the value you can bring to the team or organization is crucial, explains Muse career coach Lynn Berger. Recognizing what an employer requires through the job description serves as your roadmap to secure your ideal job.

Common Elements Found in Job Descriptions

While job postings may vary in structure and content, you can typically expect to find the following components. For each section, note how your qualifications align with the role and what you're seeking:

  • Position Title: Analyze how the job title corresponds to your career level and interests.
  • Company Name: Conduct quick research on the company to assess your fit.
  • Company Description: Evaluate the company's values and culture as conveyed in its description.
  • Employment Type: Determine if the position is full-time, part-time, contractual, or freelance.
  • Job Location: Identify if the role is in-office, remote, or a hybrid model.
  • Job Overview or Summary: Scrutinize this summary to understand the key responsibilities.
  • Job Responsibilities: Look for a bulleted list outlining daily or regular duties.
  • Required Qualifications: This section details the necessary skills, education, and experience.
  • Preferred Qualifications: Note any "nice-to-have" skills not deemed essential.
  • Benefits: Companies often highlight employee benefits and perks in this section.
  • Salary: When disclosed, compare the offered pay against your expectations.
  • Legal Disclosures: Watch for compliance language regarding anti-discrimination and accommodations.
  • Immigration Information: Some postings clarify the availability of visa sponsorship.
  • Vaccination Status: In light of COVID-19, some employers may include vaccination requirements.
  • Application Instructions: Follow outlined instructions diligently for your application.

Key Aspects to Focus on When Reading a Job Description

Yurovsky notes you don't need to read job descriptions with the intent to memorize every detail, but you should focus intently and revisit the content multiple times.

On your first read, treat it like a comprehension exercise by going through it entirely. Then, assess if this job is right for you. If your answer is affirmative, take a deeper look.

Remember, some key details will be explicit while others are implicit. Therefore, it's essential to read between the lines to capture the company’s true message.

Here are aspects to highlight as you read:

1. Desired Qualifications from the Employer

As you scan through, underline or jot down insights that reveal the employer’s expectations. Focus on the following:

  • Relevant experiences that position you for success in this role
  • Skills essential for performing job functions effectively
  • Necessary educational qualifications or training
  • Core company values

2. Critical Role Requirements

It’s essential to recognize which experiences, skills, and values are paramount. Look for clues by observing:

  • Repetition: Frequently mentioned themes indicate their significance for the role.
  • Order of Information: The first few bullet points in job duties are likely the most critical.

3. Keywords for Your Application

Andrea Gerson, Muse career coach, advises noting phrases that reflect key duties, requirements, and company attributes. These keywords will be beneficial when customizing your application.

For instance, if a job listing emphasizes "improve production processes," keywords like "production planning" and "logistics" should be taken note of.

4. Caution Against Vague Buzzwords

Beware of jargon that lacks clarity, as it may hint at company confusion regarding its needs or a less desirable work culture. For instance, phrases suggesting a need for candidates to "wear many hats" can indicate an overloaded work environment.

5. Identify Any Red Flags

Be cautious of listings that seem unrealistic, which can indicate poor management expectations or a lack of preparedness by the employer. Look out for "unicorn postings" that combine many requirements into one role, indicating an unclear job structure.

Additionally, watch for positions that demand extensive experience for entry-level jobs, as this could signal training unavailability or undervaluation of talent.

6. Your Non-Negotiables

Before diving into your job search, create a list of your must-haves, such as salary benchmarks, remote work preferences, and specific responsibilities. Refer back to this list when assessing job descriptions.

Utilizing Job Descriptions Throughout Your Job Search

Once you've absorbed the contents of a job description, here's how to leverage that insight effectively:

1. Decide if You Will Apply

Reassess the position considering your highlighted notes about qualifications, duties, company values, and your own expectations before applying. Ensure the job aligns with your aspirations.

Remember, it’s unlikely you will meet every qualification listed, as job descriptions often include many desirable traits that aren’t strictly necessary.

2. Customize Your Application Materials

Incorporate the highlighted themes, skills, and experiences into your resume and cover letter to illustrate your fit for the role clearly. This demonstrates to the employer why you would excel in the position.

Employ the specific language and keywords you noted to enhance clarity for both human readers and application systems.

3. Prepare for Your Interview

Retaining copies of job postings can aid in interview preparation. Revisit key points to align your responses with what the employer values most in a candidate.

Prepare to articulate relevant experiences and qualifications concisely, ensuring you are poised to discuss how your background aligns with the job's core requirements.

In conclusion, each job description you encounter presents a wealth of information that can significantly impact your job search success. Analyzing these postings carefully is key to making informed applications and ultimately securing the right job for your career path.

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