What recruiters want

Recruiters aren't trying to trick you. (Promise.)

Most of the details they want in your application are actually part of every JD. ?

Recruiters want candidates who match essential qualifications, proof you understand their specific needs, and alignment with company values and culture.

So, how do you give them what they're looking for??

1. Spot non-negotiables?

Highlight "must-have" skills in your resume. These are often deal-breakers.

2. Mirror key terms

Use exact phrases from the JD to increase your chances of getting past initial filters.?

3. Translate implied requirements?

Translate phrases like "fast-paced" into "ability to multitask" to show you understand day-to-day realities.

4. Analyze the salary range?

Tailor your experience to the level they're looking for.

5. Reflect company values?

Mention their mission in your cover letter to show alignment with their values.

Recruiter JD breakdown

If you want more job interviews, you need to know how to read a job description.

Learn how to get it right (according to a real recruiter).

TL;DW? No problem. Here's a quick overview:

1. JDs are structured to include the title, responsibilities, qualifications, and culture.
2. You must meet basic qualifications, but preferred qualifications offer more flexibility.
3. Cultural clues like "grit" or "ambiguity" indicate the work environment.
4. Tailor your resume to focus on keywords and tasks mentioned frequently in the JD.
5. Avoid keyword stuffing with unnecessary buzzwords.

Want more expert guidance? Subscribe to Teal's YouTube Channel !

Show recruiters you’re ready

Not a Teal member? You can sign up for free. Teal equips you with the tools to show recruiters you have what they need.

With Teal, you can quickly...

• Create a base resume with all of your skills and experience
• Pull the most relevant details for every job without deleting important details
• Check your alignment with Job Matching to get it right for every application

Sign up for free!

Match the JD—every time

Already a Teal member? Check out Teal+ for unlimited tools to help you align every application.

With Teal+, get Unlimited Matching to give every recruiter what they want.

Just click "Job Matching" in any Teal resume.

Then, compare your resume to a JD to identify key skills, match important terms, and align with company values for each application.

Upgrade your account

Today's Teal tip

If companies list responsibilities in order of importance, you should do the same!

1. Click on any resume in Teal and scroll to the Work Experience section.

2. Toggle off "Sort by Date."

3. Drag and drop your resume bullets so the most relevant experience for each position is listed first—showcasing what matters most for the job you're applying to.

Prioritize your experience

Teal case study

"The biggest piece is the velocity, which is how often you're able to apply to roles because tailoring can take so much time."

Read Mark's story

Join the Teal team

Does building a platform that empowers people to make confident career decisions excite you? Come join our team!

Staff Machine Learning Engineer

Senior Performance Marketing Manager

Senior Content Manager

Fresh job search content

New content to help guide your resume and job search

How To Read a Job Description Like a Recruiter

If you know what to look for, a JD will tell you exactly how to impress the hiring manager.

High-Earning Remote Job Certifications

Discover the best high-earning remote job certifications, including free, online, and quick certification options.

How To Create a PhD Resume

A PhD resume should showcase your experience while optimizing for a specific program. Learn how.

Best Free Online Certificates For Your Resume

Discover the best free online certifications across tech, business, marketing, and more.

What Are Career Clusters?

Discover the 16 career clusters, their importance in career planning, and how to choose the right one for you.?