The Best Way to Read a Job Description

I always forget how time consuming the job hunt is until I’m actually in the process of doing it. It’s a never ending cycle of reading dull job descriptions, weeding out the duds, and working on a custom application for each good one. That’s a LOT- and the time it takes to read a job description feels like it lasts forever because they. are. so. boring.

After years of hunting for jobs for myself, my friends, and my clients in Career Services, I’ve figured out a few tricks to make the process of deciphering and understanding job descriptions faster. 

That way, you can put more time and energy into networking like a pro and customizing your application.

Because, if the whole process of applying to jobs is less tedious and time-consuming, then you’ll be more motivated to chase your career dreams higher and higher!

Let’s dive into these tips on how to quickly and effectively read a job description, so you can get to work!

Before we Begin

Sometimes, the most difficult part of the journey is the first step. It’s daunting to start looking for a new job- you’re leaping into the unknown, making yourself vulnerable, and opening yourself up for rejection. That’s a big deal (which, btw, you’re brave and awesome for doing)!

My first step when researching jobs is the same first step I take when I’m writing a paper or drafting a new post: Google.

Google recently updated how they show job search results, so it’s even easier to start your hunt there! It’s great for using broad search terms, so it’s perfect if you’re unclear about what exactly you’re looking for.

My Google searches usually look like “entry-level writing jobs in NYC” or “science lab jobs in CA,” and it pretty much always delivers.

If Google isn’t working out, other great job search sites are idealist.org and LinkedIn

A simple Google search is the perfect way to start your job hunt, and might just get you excited for the journey!

Did you know 80% of jobs aren’t posted online, so you have to network to find them? Grab my FREE guide on the 10 best strategies to network with confidence!

Read a job description from the bottom

Although each job description is different, they usually follow the same pattern: 

1. A couple paragraphs about the company and job
2. List of responsibilities
3. List of required qualifications
4. Instructions to apply

It can vary, but that’s generally the pattern a they’ll follow.

Rather than read a job description from the top, we’re going to use a more strategic approach to save time and increase your productivity. Let’s work smarter, not harder!

The first step of understanding job descriptions is reading the list of qualifications– usually at the bottom. One of my biggest job search headaches is taking the time to read through all that information at the top, only to discover I wasn’t qualified for the position to begin with.

To avoid that struggle, just get the qualifications over with. That way, you don’t wind up excited about a job you can’t apply for.

Then, you either move on to the next job or keep reading (strategically, of course) to see if this job is worthy of your application!

Does it work for YOU?

Next up, we have to make sure this position works for YOU. We’ve already decided you’re qualified to work it, so it’s time to see if this job will push your career in the right direction!

When you’re decoding job descriptions, it’s important to check out the responsibilities next. They’re usually in a bulleted list above the qualifications. Take a good look at these and make sure everything fits your expectations.

Avoid anything that would make you uncomfortable, is unreasonable, or would take you too far from your career path.

You also want to make sure you’d ENJOY doing most of the responsibilities! Work is a huge part of our daily lives, so make sure you’ll like showing up to do this job everyday.

Of course, there are going to be things you don’t like, but make sure those aren’t the biggest and most essential aspects of the job.

Reading over the list of responsibilities checks you’re actually willing to do the job before you spend the time doing more research. 

You don’t want to fall in love with a company and then realize the job just isn’t a good fit! So, make sure the position will meet your expectations before you go any further!

Take it from the top

If you’re still willing to read the job description, then it’s time to dive into that information up top! 

Read it closely and pay attention to the verbs and adjectives they use to describe themselves and the work they do. Then, ask yourself:

• Do these all sound good to you? 
• Are their values in line with yours?
• Will you be fulfilled working for a company like this?

If your answers are yes, then take a few minutes to do an in-depth read of the entire job description, top to bottom. 

Doing a complete reread of the job description will help make sure it’s a worthwhile position and you didn’t miss anything important during your initial skim.

Once you’re sure everything checks out, you can start customizing your resume, writing a cover letter, and tapping into your network! 

Applying for jobs is time-consuming, but it doesn’t have to be miserable. In order to maximize your time, it’s important to effectively read a job description and weed out duds quickly. To take the first step of your job hunt, start by looking on Google or other job search engines. Then, to start understanding the job descriptions, read the list of qualifications, then the responsibilities, the company’s mission, and, finally, the entire description from top to bottom. If you haven’t knocked it out of the running, then start working on your application or save it for later!

Did you know 80% of jobs aren’t even posted online, so you have to network to find them? Grab FREE my guide on the 10 best strategies to network with confidence!