When you’re job hunting, the job description may feel like a mere blip on your way to applying for the job: you read it, decide whether or not you want to apply, and then move on either way. But how closely are you really reading it? A job description isn’t necessarily a Rosetta Stone for your next job opportunity, but honestly, you don’t need it to be. A little close reading can help you get the most out of your application, and even help you make your job search more efficient.
Employers know that they have limited space and time to attract good candidates to their job openings, so most job descriptions are essentially a collection of highlights in some standard categories. Job descriptions typically include:
When you’re on the hunt, you don’t necessarily have the time to read every job description word for word, all the way down. The first pass should always be a skim for high points, to see if it meets your basic requirements. If it sounds like something that could be promising for you, go back to the top, and read more closely from start to finish. At that point, view it as a checklist:
If those are all clear to your satisfaction, make a quick plan for how to apply. Make sure you’re following any/all instructions they provide and use the information in the job description to tailor your resume or cover letter to emphasize what you can offer to meet what they’re seeking.
Keywords are essential here. Look for words or phrases specific to the most important skills, responsibilities, or requirements, so that you can mirror those in your resume or cover letter. You don’t want to repeat everything in a job description in your resume, but making sure keywords are included can help your application get past preliminary reads.
The job description can help you get your application in, but it can also help you later in the process if you end up getting an interview or other follow-up from the company. Once you’ve decided to apply, bookmark it—or even better, copy and paste the text into your own doc, or print it for later in case it’s no longer online when you go to look for it later. Add any notes or questions you have, for future reference. It’ll be a reminder for you when you do any interview prep later, or have the chance to ask questions to the recruiter or hiring manager.
The job description may not be sacred literature, but the more time you spend understanding what’s being said and requested upfront will make for a stronger, more targeted application. It’ll also help you spend less time on job descriptions that just aren’t what you’re looking for, as you develop a more intuitive way of reading them through practice.
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