HOW TO DECONSTRUCT A JOB POSTING

RESOURCE TYPE: Information sheet
KIT TYPE:
Tool kit
HOW TO DECONSTRUCT A JOB POSTING
There are many types of job postings. Some are very minimal and include a list of requirements, while others are incredibly detailed and include
a complete job description. The best way to really understand a job posting is to take five minutes and deconstruct it.
Step 1:
Print the job posting, and the job description if available.
Step 2:
Use highlighters to mark Required qualifications in one colour and Skills and abilities (competencies) in another, along with
any job duties you have previously performed. You could also cut and paste the requirements into the two columns on the
DECONSTRUCT A JOB POSTING WORKSHEET.
Required qualifications could include:
• Specific educational requirements (e.g. second year standing, Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree, specific diploma)
• Specific experience (e.g. one year of customer service experience, experience with AutoCAD, familiar with a lab
environment)
• Specific licenses or courses (e.g. Class 5 Driver’s License, training in presentation delivery)
NOTE: Employers often list the most important qualifications higher in the posting
Skills and abilities could include:
• Demonstrated communication skills
• Ability to work with minimal supervision
• Problem-solving capabilities
“Skills and abilities” can also be interpreted as competencies, but we’ve used the phrase “skills and abilities” on this
worksheet since this is the language that employers tend to include on job postings.
Step 3:
Consider your background and write down how you meet each criteria on the DECONSTRUCT A JOB POSTING WORKSHEET.
Highlight these matches as you develop your résumé. In your cover letter, focus on your key qualifications and strengths
relative to the posting. For positions with extensive lists of qualifications/skills, you won’t be able to address every aspect,
but you can identify categories and list the most important elements.
If you don’t have experience in every area, don’t worry. Aim to meet a minimum of 75% of what the employer is looking
for. Showcase your competencies and demonstrate that you have thought about the job posting and how you are a good
fit for the position.
Copyright © Co-operative Education Program and Career Services 2011
www.uvic.ca/coopandcareer
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