Deciphering cryptic job descriptions

It can be tough to tell whether you’re cut out for a job or not. Sometimes the details and language used in the job description leave you with more questions about what the employer is looking for. Other times they select vague, over-used HR jargon because the employer and hiring manager can’t agree on more specific terms. Jeanine Hamilton, president of Hire Partnership, offered insight on deciphering eight commonly used terms in job descriptions.

“Flexible hours’’Unfortunately, this probably doesn’t refer to the option of working “flex time,’’ the concept of working a regular shift with flexibility on when you start and stop working the shift. Rather it usually means the employer is looking for someone who is flexible enough to work whenever it’s required, which could be long hours and weekend hours. Of course, your flexibility on this issue should be compensated by the ability to take time off if you come in on the weekend.

“An entrepreneurial environment’’People who work in an entrepreneurial environment often wear many hats. The hiring manager who uses this phrase is likely looking for someone who can handle responsibility outside the required skill set. For example, they may be required to handle light technical or office needs, as there might not be a separate IT department or office manager in an entrepreneurial or startup setting.

“Must work independently’’When you see this phrase it likely means the manager for this role or the person responsible for training and guiding you will not be very accessible. It could also mean that the organization or department is stretched thin and needs someone who doesn’t need to be micromanaged.

“Lots of growth opportunity’’You’re more likely to see this term used by a smaller company or a startup. The employer likely envisions growth for their organization and anticipates opportunity for new employees to grow their careers as the company grows.

“Fast-paced environment’’This could mean you’re stepping into a ‘sink or swim’ environment where you’ll be required to keep a lot of balls in the air and where things may change quickly. They are looking for a candidate who can handle this type of setting without getting flustered. If there is a training period, it will likely be short and you’ll have to get to work quickly.

“Self starter’’Employers say they want a “self starter’’ when they’re looking for someone who has the confidence to keep things moving along by making decisions and figuring things out on their own. The candidate will likely be working with someone who gives them some detail or sets a goal and then expects the worker to run with it, without requiring a lot of follow-up instruction.

“Results oriented’’Hiring managers who use this term are interested in what you expect to produce in the role. They are less likely to want to talk about how you work and more likely to want to know what you expect to deliver or how you gauge your success in the position.

“Team player’’Employers who look for team players are looking for someone who is a good culture fit for their organization and fits in well with their organization and the other staff. They also want someone who is willing to pitch in and get the job done even if it goes beyond their specific job description.