In this article, we will share the components of a job description, highlight common barriers, discuss inaccessible language, and provide tips for navigating them.
A job description is an important piece of the job search because it outlines the requirements, responsibilities, and skills needed for a position. Knowing what to look for can help you determine if the role aligns with your skillset and employment goals. Understanding the discrepancies within the language and terminologies used in job descriptions can be the difference between your decision to apply or explore other opportunities.
Typical sections of a job descriptions
Although all job descriptions are different, many include the same core parts:
- A history of the organization and its objectives
- Key duties and responsibilities
- Professional qualifications (required vs. preferred)
- Pay type and amount (hourly, salary, etc.)
- Type of employment (full-time, part-time, onsite, hybrid, remote, etc.)
- Benefits
If you are new to or are overwhelmed by job descriptions, a helpful first step can be reviewing them closely to familiarize yourself with these different components. A better understanding of the role can help you feel more confident and prepared when applying.
To find examples, visit the Hire Autism Job Board.
Inaccessible language present in the job description
Unfortunately, there is often ambiguous and vague language throughout many job descriptions. Unclear phrasing can be challenging for some autistic job seekers to interpret. It is often easier for autistic people to understand clearly defined, objectifiable, and quantifiable descriptions as opposed to wording left up to interpretation.
Much of the vague terminologies are in the job description’s qualifications section. Examples include terms such as deep understanding in, competency in, experience in, knowledgeable in, or familiarity in a certain skill or tool. This can be confusing because there is no measurable way to define or demonstrate such capabilities. After all, how do you know if you are familiar enough with a specific tool to apply for a position?
Another challenge that may arise is understanding preferred vs required qualifications. Oftentimes, the lines between what is necessary and what is desired are blurred, meaning an autistic person might see that they don’t meet one of the criteria (despite meeting five or six others) and decide not to apply even though they may be a competitive applicant.
If you find the language within a job description challenging, working with a trusted mentor, parent, peer, or friend who has gone through the application process before can help you learn how to review listings and determine if you want to proceed with applying.
You can learn more about what to expect in a well-crafted and inclusive job description here.
Advice and guidance for navigating job descriptions
Along with the steps above, consider the following tips to help you navigate a job description:
- Learn about the different job types and roles that are available and that interest you. You can find a breakdown of various job types and more in A Guide to Job Searching.
Make a list to differentiate the preferred versus required qualifications in a job listing and compare them to your experience and qualifications.- Even if you do not meet all the recommended qualifications, if your skills align with the required qualifications or the job description includes language like “we recognize that not all qualified candidates will have all the qualifications above” or “we encourage interested candidates who meet some but not all qualifications to apply” it could still be worth applying!
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- Keep in mind that a job description may not outline all the tasks for that role. Some job descriptions contain language such as “perform all other duties and tasks as assigned,” “other duties may be assigned,” “perform all other duties assigned by supervisor or manager,” or similar verbiage that suggests other tasks may be expected.
- Ask questions!
- If there is a point of contact on the application or contact form on the company website, try reaching out to express your interest and ask questions to clarify vague language.
- If you apply and get invited to an interview, this is the best time to ask any further questions you may have about the role, desired qualifications, additional duties, and more.
Make a list to differentiate the Advice submitted by Hire Autism Navigator Claudia Z.
“It is very natural to first look at a job description through the lens of “Would I like this job?” or maybe even “Could I do this job?” While these are significant considerations, perhaps more important is to review the stated qualifications. You can avoid a lot of frustration and disappointment by focusing your efforts on those jobs for which you meet these requirements.”