The Secrets Hidden in the Job Description

Looking for a new job can be hard work. But reading a job description like it’s your potential employer’s CV can make your search much less stressful. It’s easy to forget that you choose the employer as much as they choose you.

Some companies are great at selling why you should work for them, others not so much, but how they express themselves can tell you a lot about them. Here are some tips for spotting the secrets hidden in four main types of job descriptions.

1. The Pass Along

This kind of job description is common in larger organisations, when Human Resources have to fill an open position with little input from the line manager. As a result, it ends up being vague, full of buzzwords and arbitrary requests for qualifications and experience.

Sometimes you’ll even see errors, like asking for candidates with 20 years’ experience in Pinterest. This suggests a company culture that’s heavy on processes and bureaucracy, not ideal for someone looking for an innovative and creative workplace.

2. The Copy and Paste

The copy-and-paste description can come from an old but similar role within the same company or another company altogether. Either way it can be deceptive, because when you start digging, you may discover that it does not quite match the brand.

This happens when an employer hires a recruitment agency who recycles a job template from another client. This won’t help you get much insight into your new potential employer. Before you apply, always check the company’s career site.

3. The Try Hard

The hallmark of a start-up or small business: throwing lots of perks and benefits into a job description in the hope of distracting you from that lower-end salary perhaps some chaos behind the scenes. Look out for promises of beers and pizza on Fridays, Xbox tournaments and flexible working hours.

Don’t judge too harshly. This kind of position isn’t for someone seeking structure, security or work-life balance, but could be a good opportunity if you’re looking for more experience. Just be aware you’ll likely be doing more than the job description says. These companies tend to hire on gut, instinct and personality and need people who can get along in small teams.

4. The Original

Original job posts are the easiest to spot. You’ll get the sense that the writer put some thought into it. The description focuses on how the role will help improve the company. You’ll get a good sense of the culture and who the team is. Another great sign is that they’ve gone the extra mile to explain how their ideal candidate – that could be you – will fit in with the rest of the team.

Always remember: they need you just as much as you need them.