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The foundation of a successful match between employers and potential employees often begins with the job posting. This “initial introduction” requires both parties to actively engage in the process. For job seekers, it’s essential to be clear about personal goals and skills, while critically evaluating the job specifications. Employers, on the other hand, should strive to craft “comprehensive, accurate, and transparent job descriptions,” as highlighted by Turner Rafter, senior HR business partner at the University of Colorado.
This article revisits the fundamental aspects of how job seekers and employers can collaborate to ensure a fruitful match, starting with the job posting itself.
Responsibilities of Job Seekers in Evaluating Job Postings
Understanding Shared Objectives
Job searches in higher education often extend over long periods, which can be disheartening for candidates. When these searches stretch into weeks, months, and potentially years, job seekers may feel outmatched. However, separating emotions from the realities of the situation is key.
At its essence, a job posting signals an employer’s quest for the most suitable candidate to fill a position within their institution. “Hiring someone to join a team is a significant decision,” Rafter explains. “How can employers ensure they select someone who is enthusiastic about the work and positively contributing to the organization? How do they gauge if a candidate will find satisfaction in the role?”
Looking at job openings from a broader perspective can help job seekers adjust their mindset accordingly.
It’s also crucial to recognize that candidates possess agency in this process. While it’s important to advocate for their candidacy, job seekers should also assess the fit of the role with their personal values and professional goals.
Be Purposeful in Your Job Search
In an attempt to keep options open—or out of immediate necessity—applying indiscriminately can be tempting.
If your situation allows for it, approach job applications with thoughtfulness. Valerie Mandel, executive director of the Rollins College Center for Career and Life Planning, recommends that candidates clarify their objectives and priorities before submitting applications.
“Identify your skills and competencies to discern what you’re seeking in a role,” Mandel advises. “Draft a list of non-negotiables, such as desired location, salary range, work format (in-person or remote), and the kind of company culture you thrive in.”
Narrowing down to roles that genuinely excite you and align with your values will enhance your candidacy. With well-defined goals, candidates can focus their applications and express authentic enthusiasm for potential positions.
Assess the Opportunity and Your Compatibility
“Critically evaluating job postings is vital for ensuring a match with one’s capabilities, values, and long-term aspirations,” noted Alex Reyes, talent acquisition advisor at UC Berkeley.
Candidates should meticulously read job descriptions and honestly assess their qualifications in relation to the criteria outlined. Reflecting on personal goals in light of the job opportunity is also essential.
Job descriptions serve as tools for employers to communicate their requirements for a position clearly. “They should furnish potential candidates with ample information to evaluate the nature of the work and the necessary skills and experience involved,” Mandel points out. Harnessing this opportunity can help candidates gauge whether there’s a suitable alignment.
AI tools can assist in assessing how one’s skills relate to a posting. Furthermore, Mandel suggests highlighting or underlining keywords within the description as a visual aid to compare various positions, ultimately leading to more informed choices.
Create a List of Uncertainties
“Well-structured postings should emphasize transparency and clarity,” Reyes explained. Still, they provide only a limited view of the employer’s environment. Candidates should compile a list of unresolved questions as they analyze the posting.
Consider inquiries related to:
- Institutional culture and its alignment with your values
- Opportunities for advancement within the department
- Preferred work styles and communication methods, especially for remote roles
- Research funding availability for faculty positions
- Employee benefits
Conduct research to address as many questions as possible and save any remaining inquiries for interviews or offer discussions. When investigating the institution, Mandel warns candidates to approach online employee reviews critically, as negative feedback may often stem from disgruntled employees.
Guidelines for Employers in Crafting Job Postings
Emphasize Honesty and Transparency
A well-crafted job advertisement should generate interest while accurately representing the role. It’s vital to avoid exaggerating conditions or responsibilities.
“A job description should accurately depict the duties and responsibilities associated with a position,” Rafter states. “It should communicate a realistic vision of the daily tasks and special projects involved.” The job description is an excellent opportunity to clarify the essential responsibilities of a role.
While salary transparency isn’t mandated in every state, Rafter suggests that offering this information upfront can benefit both parties. Withholding pay details can often result in misunderstandings about expectations.
“Being transparent about compensation helps foster a pool of interested candidates, as it allows individuals to determine whether they can accept an offer,” Rafter adds.
Similarly, employers should clarify work location and arrangements. What are the expectations for in-office presence? Clearly specifying these details allows candidates to assess their interest in the opportunity.
Provide a Comprehensive Overview
Laura Sroufe, communications and employee engagement specialist at South Dakota State University, emphasizes that candidates must envision themselves in the role and within the university.
“When crafting a job advertisement, I aim to highlight who we are as a university and provide insight into our community,” she remarked. “I include hyperlinks to our university and community websites, along with videos for candidates to explore further.”
Sroufe also connects department-specific websites and presents an overarching view of the department’s mission or achievements that may appeal to prospective candidates. Making this content easily accessible not only relieves some pressure from job seekers but also curates a collection of informative materials showcasing what the institution has to offer.
“These elements play a vital role in candidates’ decisions to apply and ultimately accept offers,” Sroufe concluded.
Final Thoughts
“A job posting offers one of the first opportunities for both employers and job seekers to assess their alignment regarding some fundamental career expectations,” Rafter noted. When both parties recognize the significance of job postings, they can save time and enhance their likelihood of discovering a successful fit.
For additional insights and advice on effective job advertisements, consult our ten essential tips for job postings.
Source
www.higheredjobs.com