Yes! There is right way to read a job advertisement! Too many job seekers read advertisements, but fail to grasp what the employer is seeking. One of the main reasons job seekers do not receive responses to their resumes is that they do not have all or most of the qualifications, skills, knowledge, education, and experience that is required. Before you answer another advertisement, ask and answer the following questions.
1. Do you have the experience they are looking for? – Most job postings will list the minimum number of years’ experience the applicant needs to have. If the employer wants someone with 7 years’ experience and you just graduated from college, then DO NOT APPLY!
2. Do you have the education they are seeking? – Once again, most employers will indicate the minimum education level they would like you to have completed (i.e. high school diploma, some college, bachelors’ degree). If you did not graduate from a university or college and that is a minimum requirement, then your chances of getting an interview are substantially lowered.
3. Do you have the necessary qualifications? – Most job postings list qualifications they would like you to posses. Some postings will list 3 or 4 requirements while others will list 10 or15. Be sure to read this section very carefully; not only is this a great way to identify key words for your resume; the section also provides you with a list of responsibilities you will be expected to cover. If your resume does not show achievements in most of these areas of responsibilities, then the employer will probably not consider you the right FIT for this position.
4. How long of a commute is it to the new job? – Many job seekers apply for jobs without taking into consideration the length of the commute. Are you willing to travel 2 hours each day or sit in bumper-to-bumper traffic? Before you send in your resume you need to decide whether the commute is a good fit with your lifestyle.
Remember, accurately reading a job announcement is an important step in getting an interview. Don’t waste your time applying to jobs when your qualifications do not meet the employer’s needs!
Good luck with you job search!
Caren L.