A Guide To Understanding Job Descriptions

Have you ever been confused by the words in job adverts, job descriptions and person specifications? MyCVandMe take a look at some of the more common words and phrases in job adverts to help you decipher what employers are really looking for. You can then highlight your relevant skills and experience in your CV and covering letter.

Dynamic

Probably the most over-used word in job adverts. The company want someone who can generate ideas to improve things, not someone who sits around waiting for things to happen.

Market leader

Many companies describe themselves as leading in their particular sector. They could be, but it all depends on how you define "the market". Make sure you do your research on the company. Don't just go to their website. Try and obtain information from independent sources as well.

Proven track record

Employers want to see evidence of your experience. If you've taken a project from A to B, make sure you have the statistics and documents to prove it.

Self-starter/ Proactive

A self-starter can see what needs to be done and can take action without too many instructions. The employer may want you to take charge of a project at short notice and trust you to get on with it.

Fast-paced/challenging/demanding environment

This means that the company would like someone who can juggle a lot of different tasks, be flexible work to deadlines and put in the extra time and effort to meet targets as well as being able to generate ideas.

Customer-focused

This means you should be able to put customers' needs first and understand what makes them tick. In your CV you should add an example where you dealt with a difficult customer or came up with an idea that would appeal to customers.

Ability to communicate at all levels

The employer wants someone who can get on with people at all levels of the company, from the receptionists to the board room. In your CV you should add an example where you worked on a project with a wide range of people.

Fast learner

The company may not be able to spend a lot of time training you on the job, so you'll have to be able to pick it up as you go along. This might appeal to you if you like learning by doing. You should also find out what type of training is offered.

Working closely

This usually indicates that the team/department you'll be working in is quite small, maybe no more than two-three people.

Transferable Skills

Skills which can be taken from one job or experience to another. These can be skills such as communication and team working that you have gained at university, through jobs or in your social life.

Team player

The company want someone with a bit of personality who will fit into the team and are willing to help with tasks outside their job role when required.

Results focused

Employers want a return on investment in you. They are looking for someone who wants to work, is prepared to do what it takes to fulfil their job and has awareness of how their actions affect the company as a whole.

Flexible

Be prepared to meet the demands of the business. This could involve relocating to another office or working extra hours, even weekends.

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