Have you read the Job Description? It is not an option

Job descriptions consist of 350 to 800 words on average. A college-educated adult can read between 250 to 300 words per minute. If candidates apply to even 15 job postings a day and read every word on that description, guess the number of hours of their job search which is dedicated solely to reading positions’ responsibilities and requirements.

You’ve scanned through what feels like thousands of job posts  and have finally found few that’s worthy of further investigation. But the frustration ensues as you begin reading.

From qualifications to company descriptions, it becomes overwhelming. So, you hurriedly press the “Apply” and exit the window, hoping against hopes that your CV will be shortlisted for the interview.

90% of Candidates Don’t Read the Job Description

They are only skimming through the postings, not thoroughly reading them, and from my experience, applicants are spending 30 seconds or less reading the descriptions before hitting the apply button and submitting their resume. They don’t know if a job is right for them. They’re looking at the job’s title, a few of the prerequisite bullet points, and then deciding if the job is just enough of a fit before submitting their application. This leads to talent pools saturated with candidate quantity, not quality.

By clicking "Apply" without reading any of the information first, it reduces your chances of getting a job – or even an interview. While job description can be tough to decipher, there are ways to answer your own questions and ease the decision on whether or not to apply.

Therefore, the best ways to apply for a job is to:

Read the Instructions

If you do not follow the instructions during the application process, then why would an employer hire you and assume that you would follow instructions when hired?

If there are screening questions asked, answer them with full honesty. Those screening questions are there for a reason.Reading a job description involves searching for clues. It also requires understanding yourself- your skill sets.

Read Beyond the Job Title- Try it??, It’s worth it

Sure, the title will give you a clue about what the job entails. But many candidates see the title, read only the beginning of the description and quickly submit their resume. Take the time to read the entire document, focusing your attention on the keywords, the must have skills and the mandatory requirement.

Pay Careful Attention to the Job Requirements

Requirements such as education, job skills and experience are areas in which you can set yourself apart from the competition. Focus your attention on the first three or four items in the list, which are likely the most important requirements for the job. Do you possess the required qualifications? Note whether the requirements are listed as mandatory or preferred. You’ll need to meet mandatory requirements to even be considered; preferred education, skills or experience could put you ahead of the pack if you have them. If you don’t, it’s possible other factors in your resume will make you an attractive option.

Explain Yourself

If you aren’t planning to relocate and the job description insists on local candidates, make sure to check where the job is located to save your CV from being rejected. It becomes obvious that you didn’t read the job description.

 How to know if you should apply

Now that you've read the job description and noted the keywords, it's time to decide whether you should apply. So now, it's time to read the description again…. Yeah….Again??

First, think of the job description like a series of questions. When a job posting says that 10 years of experience is required, it's really asking you "do you have that much experience?" Do a gut check: do you meet the requirements, one way or another? In order to apply, you don't have to have 10 years of experience that exactly matches the job description, but you should have comparable experience to get an interview.

Then, take a look at the Salary range -if the job description includes one. Is the pay worth leaving your current company or making a career change? Before applying, decide what amount you’re willing to sacrifice for a career you’re happier with—or what amount will encourage you to leave your current position. Of course, don't let a posted salary deter you from applying but then do not apply if there is a salary mismatch; Note: Companies do negotiate- you knew that already, didn’t you?

Thorough review of the job description can save you tremendous effort and prevent frustration in your job search. A little effort is worth the payoff: at least you will land an interview.

The thing is this: If you believe you can do the job and are a good match, barring a few things, you should absolutely put yourself out there. Just make sure you’re being realistic when it comes to knowing the difference between almost qualified and not even close.

This article is a part of our Recruitment Series. To know more about it and other blogs in the series, visit us at https://thehrbps.in/