Industry humor and fun

Here is What Your Favorite Job Description Clichés Actually Mean

I love writing job descriptions…said no one ever.

For recruiters and hiring managers alike this just isn’t one of those exciting “oh I can’t wait to do this” tasks, yet we have to do it, and usually we have to do it quickly.

Because of this, we’re sometimes guilty of resorting to convenient clichés and job description catch phrases.

However, before you write your next description, hit the pause button and check out the 9 examples below. These are what your job descriptions may sound like to job seekers:

The job description says: "Competitive salary"
What it actually means: We remain competitive by paying less than our competitors.


The job description says:
 "Join our fast-paced team"
What it actually means: We have no time to train you.


The job description says: 
"Casual work atmosphere"
What it actually means: We don't pay enough to expect that you'll dress up.


The job description says:
"Must be deadline oriented"
What it actually means: You'll be six months behind schedule on your first day.


The job description says:
“Some overtime required”
What it actually means: Some time each night and some time each weekend.


The job description says:
"Duties will vary"
What it actually means: Anyone in the office can boss you around.


The job description says:
"Seeking candidates with a wide variety of experience"
What it actually means: You'll need it to replace three people who just left.


The job description says:
"Requires team leadership skills"
What it actually means: You'll have the responsibilities of a manager, without the pay or respect.


The job description says:
"Good communication skills"
What it actually means: Management communicates, you listen, figure out what they want and do it.

If you are ready to revamp the way you write job descriptions, download our ebook with 7 Tricks for an Irresistible Job Description.

Job description tricks

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