Job Adverts. What Do They Really Mean?

By: Anthony Charles

Job advertisements, what do they really mean? Is this one for you, or are you just wasting your time? Does it pay a decent salary, or does it mean sixteen hours a day for next to nothing? It is sometimes hard to tell, with employment agencies sometimes resembling estate agents in their flowery use of language. Hardly surprising, they are probably on commission as well, and need to attract the best candidates for every opportunity they deal with. So, what do they really mean, which words actually matter and which are just so-much flim-flam?

Here is our attempt to improve the visibility of these advertisements, our very own jargon buster. If you come across a pearl or two, do let us know - and we can, perhaps, publish here to raise a few more wry smiles.

Dynamic
If you are 40+, you know exactly what this means! It is the word that replaced 'young' when age discrimination legislation came into being. It means that they may be looking for someone on the way up, rather than one who has already made it, or, to put it another way, someone who is cheaper (than you). Get ready to prove your higher worth in all sorts of ways.

Results Orientated
Quite possibly a degree of 'sales' involved here, although perhaps just code for 'we want someone who will work their ar--e off'. They are looking for someone who will run with the ball, will achieve results in the short term and will whatever is necessary to get the job done. A natural attribute if you are a class 'A' workaholic, keep clear if you just want somewhere to go in between social outings!

Flexible
As in, forget the job description, just get it done! A job that might be hugely interesting, great for learning new skills and a very worthwhile experience, or ... it might mean working anytime, all the time, without notice, overtime without pay, even weekends, traveling to another site at zero notice and so on. Make sure that you know which it is.

Team Player
Ass opposed to a 'hermit', perhaps? A meaningless statement, when have you ever seen anyone advertise for a 'Recluse'? They essentially want someone who will not challenge the existing dynamics too much and is willing to to help others with tasks outside their normal duties if necessary.

Competitive Salary
Probably means they do not yet know how much they need to offer to get the right person - so make sure that you do not mention a specific amount during any meeting. Do, however, try and find out as early as possible the range they are working in; driving two hours to an airport, waiting around for a delayed flight etc. could be a trifle exasperating if you then find their 'competitive salary' is, actually, a little less than you earned last year!

OTE
On Target Earnings: normally quite high, quite attractive, often unreachable. This generally means that they will you a fairly low basic wage, say half national average, but expect you to earn loads more in commission as a result of your supremely successful selling efforts. Make sure that you know what the target will be, the performance of the existing work-force, decide if the targets are reasonable, or just a 'come-on'.

Not quite as bad as Estate Agents perhaps, but you still need to carefully consider what they really want, especially in sales/commission led situations.

The very best of luck with your efforts.

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www.cv-expert.co.uk Free advice, professional templates & bespoke writing service for CVs, resumes & cover letters. Your future is our business, our aim is to ensure your success in the search for that next job. Visit www.cv-expert.co.uk to get your free copy of 'Secrets of the Successful Job Hunt', over 100 pages of essential information and real secrets on how to land your next job - now. A professional manager with extensive experience from shop-floor to board-room, dedicated

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