Three Great Ways to Pick Apart a Job Description

A job description is more than a hiring tool; it also acts as a guideline for new hires and serves as a framework for employee evaluations. For job seekers, it contains valuable information about what the company is looking for in a successful candidate. By analyzing the description, you can create tailored application materials that increase your chances of attracting the employer's attention.

Identify Key Skill Requirements

During the job description writing process, an employer often goes to great lengths to include specific position requirements to help weed out underqualified candidates. People who apply without meeting the basic requirements are often eliminated in the first round of reviews. In many cases, their applications do not make it past the company's resume-tracking software. To avoid wasting time on unreachable positions, spend time analyzing the crucial skill sets and experience in the job description. Some descriptions label them with titles like "Required Skills" or "Baseline Competencies." If the requirements are not clearly marked, look for repeated keywords or paragraphs that go into great detail about a specific responsibility. Your resume, cover letter and application should demonstrate your capability in each major skill area.

Check Educational Preferences

A job description usually includes a specific explanation of the preferred and required education levels for the open position. Before you apply, go through the job posting to ensure you completed the degrees required. Do not stop at college education; look for indications the employer prefers candidates with specific certifications, licenses or training. If the job description notes that your duties include performing emergency lifesaving actions, it is safe to assume you need to have current CPR and First Aid certifications. Ensure that your application materials highlight the education experiences that uniquely qualify you for the job.

Evaluate Personal Preferences

Meeting all of the qualifications for a job does not necessarily mean that you will be happy in the position. Other factors, including corporate culture and daily responsibilities, play a significant part in job satisfaction. Analyze the job description to get an idea of the company as a whole. Do the daily duties sound challenging enough, or are you likely to get bored over time? Look for clues about the office atmosphere and measure them against your personal preferences. If you prefer to work independently but the description mentions teamwork and social activities, the company may not be a good fit. On the flip side, phrases like "self-directed" and "comfortable working independently" might be warning signs if you prefer a collaborative environment.

In many cases, the job description is the most valuable source of information about a potential employer. By approaching it as a valuable resource rather than a simple hiring tool, you invest your time applying for companies that are a good personal and professional match.

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