The right way to read an entry-level job description

 Employment type

Is this a full time job, part time job, or contract? As a contractor, you may be paid more but have access to fewer benefits, like health insurance, and there may be a fixed term to your employment. (Use the Job Type filter on Handshake to set these preferences).

 

Job location

Does the company have a remote work option, or will you have to go to the office full time? If it’s in an office, can you manage the commute, or be willing to relocate?

 

Job overview and duties

This section is the best place to learn what is actually expected of you in the role, and how it fits into the rest of the company. Be sure to read this section and not just the job title! Jobs with the same title can have very different functions in different industries and companies of different sizes.

 

Required qualifications

This section lists the skills, experiences, and/or certifications you may need to be considered for the role. Skills are usually listed in descending order of importance–the most critical skills for the role are listed first. Use the key words in this section to tailor your resume and cover letter.

 

Even though the heading says “required,” this list describes the ideal candidate, who may not exist! If you meet at least 60-70% of the requirements, and you feel you’d excel in the role, apply anyway. (Use your judgment: don’t apply to a role that asks for fluency in Spanish if you only took Spanish 101.)

 

There may also be a “preferred qualifications” section for skills that aren’t mandatory but would help you stand out from other candidates. If you have any of these nice-to-have skills, be sure to highlight them in your resume and cover letter!

The hybrid jobs model is no longer an alternative style of work. It’s here to stay. But, like any work model, there are benefits and disadvantages. As workplace leaders, you must meet the needs of your workforce or risk losing your talent to employers that do.