Content Starts Here
Quick guide to job adverts - what do they mean?
Quick guide to job adverts - what do they mean?
"_________ need a dynamic and enthusiastic individual for a key role in _________ . A challenging role for a motivated self-starter in a demanding environment. Proven track record required."
Recognise it? It is a standard formula for a job advert. Admittedly simplified, but fill in the blanks and you have something that closely resembles any of the thousands of job ads displayed in our newspapers and websites every day.
Obviously, job ads are tailored to the position. An ad for a construction engineer will use one kind of terminology, while an ad for a web designer will use another. Similarly, the age group and experience of the desired applicant influence the language. Ads targeting 18 to 25-year olds will be more punchy and colloquial, whilst an employer looking for a seasoned financial accounts manager is likely be more formal.
However, since the ad space is usually both costly and limited, employers have to rely on a certain jargon to get their message across in as few words as possible. And this is where the trouble starts for the jobseeker.
Words like "dynamic", "flexible" and "self-starter" occur so frequently that they have become cliché. Yet, to be honest, they don't reveal much about what the employer wants - what is, for instance, a "dynamic" individual? And don't we all need to be "team players"? Have you ever read an ad asking for someone to be reclusive?
It is up to the jobseeker to try and decode the adverts, a task that might be easier said than done considering the glamorous adjectives often flung in to attract people to the position.
The trick, the experts say, is to ignore these adjectives and cut straight to the job. What does the company actually want from you, and can you do it?
If anything is unclear (and things usually are) once you've read the advert, contact the company. Use the phone number or email address at the bottom of the ad and find out more.
You can also do your own research on the internet, for instance by visiting the company homepage. To learn more about using the net for jobhunting, click here.
Finally, you can also check out our glossary of common ad jargon below:
Competitive salary and benefits
How "competitive" is it and precisely what benefits do they offer? They might not yet have decided how much to pay you, perhaps because the position is new. In that case, they will probably need to see your CV and discuss the terms with you.
Demanding environment
Usually the same as "fast-paced" or "challenging". Be prepared to put in long hours and juggle many different tasks at the same time, usually towards tight deadlines. People around you will expect you to be flexible (see below) and able to swiftly carry out orders, as well as being able to generate ideas yourself.
Dynamic
Probably the most over-used word in job ads. Basically, the company is after someone with an open and proactive personality, who asks intelligent questions at the interview and can generate some good ideas. If you fit these requirements, you might want to check that the company is dynamic too. There's nothing worse than feeling that your talents remain unused because of a stiff or dull company culture.
Fast learner
This could mean that the company hasn't got the time and resources to train you properly for the job. Graduates in particular need to make sure that the company can offer them skills that make them attractive on the job market at a later stage. Check this one carefully - what type of training do they offer, if any?
Flexible
The employer wants you to be prepared to work in any part of the UK, or rush off to Paris at a moment's notice. And don't be fussy about your working hours.
Great opportunity for the right person...
Could mean what it says, but could also mean that if you don't perform very well from the start you could be out very quickly. Similar to "fast learner" (see above).
Key role
Ask them to specify more precisely what they want you to do. It could mean anything from doing the filing to overseeing huge projects.
Market leader
Many companies describe themselves as leading in their particular sector. They could be, of course, but it could also be a classic case of job advert hyperbole. It all depends on how one defines "the market". Make sure you do your research on the company. Don't just go to their website, get information from independent sources as well.
OTE
On Target Earnings, meaning that your salary is part basic, part performance-related. The important thing here is to find out how much of your salary is basic and how much is commission. Also, find out how achievable the targets are.
Proven track record
You need to be able to show evidence of your experience. If you have taken a project from A to B, make sure you have the stats and documents to prove it. For instance, many positions in media, arts and design require that you produce a portfolio with your best work. Graduates beware, do not say you have a proven track record if you can't back it up.
Self-starter
A person who can see what needs to be done, and take action proactively without constant guidance and orders. Basically, the employer wants to be able chuck a project in your lap and trust you to deal with it.
Working closely
Normally indicates that the team/department you'll be working in is quite small, perhaps no more than two-three people.
Anders Lenart
Advertisement starts
Advertisement ends
More Links Within This Section
- find a job
- jobs by email
- job hunt advice
- career advice
- get your cv in shape
- upload your cv
- Job recommendations
- Employer of the month
- 10 cv clangers
- get that interview
- uk's 20 happiest jobs
- key questions to ask
- dazzle a future boss
- common questions
- IT Training
- get a salary rise
- salary checker
- surviving redundancy
- Work for Tiscali
- employment law
- pensions and pay
- self employment
- union finder
- your rights at work
