Job descriptions are often the first point of contact between a company and potential candidates. They shape perceptions about the role, the team, and the organisation as a whole. Yet your company might have unknowingly undermined your hiring efforts by relying on buzzwords that can mislead applicants and reflect poorly on company culture. Buzzword phrases might seem engaging or motivating for hopeful applicants, but they often carry hidden signals about structural challenges within an organisation.
Understanding the language you use in job descriptions is critical not just for attracting talent but also for ensuring that candidates have a realistic understanding of what the role involves. Avoid creating mismatched expectations and higher turnovers!
Understanding the Impact of Language
Certain buzzwords can unintentionally discourage applicants from diverse backgrounds or those seeking stability. For example:
- “Self-starter” can imply a lack of support, mentorship, or structured onboarding.
- “Fast-paced environment” may signal high stress, unrealistic expectations, or frequent overtime.
- “Wear many hats” can suggest that roles are poorly defined and that resources are stretched too thin.
- “Rockstar” / “Ninja” / “Guru”: Obfuscating the job role and responsibilities can lead to hesitance in applications.
These phrases can act as subtle red flags, particularly for candidates who prioritise clarity, guidance, and work-life balance. In essence, vague or inflated language often fails to communicate the realities of the role, resulting in mismatched expectations and, ultimately, recruitment challenges.
How This Could Affect Your Hiring Process
When roles are not clearly defined, confusion results and workloads soon become unmanageable. A number of important hires leave within months, citing exhaustion and unclear expectations. Your company constantly replaces employees rather than improving your hiring procedures.
Such situations are all too common. The incorrect wording can cost more than a few qualified applicants, and what appears to be enthusiastic language can inadvertently convey instability or disarray.
Practical Tips for Clear and Informative Job Descriptions
- Replace vague buzzwords with specifics
Clearly outline primary responsibilities and opportunities for cross-functional collaboration. - Clarify pace and environment
Describe typical workflows, project timelines, and team structures. - Set realistic expectations
Replace “self-starter” with details on available mentorship, onboarding, and support. - Use inclusive language
Ensure phrasing does not unintentionally favour certain demographics. Emphasise collaboration, learning opportunities, and openness to diverse experiences.
Need Help?
Job descriptions reflect the culture, structure, and values of your business. By avoiding buzzwords and instead using clear, authentic, and inclusive language, companies can attract the right candidates, set realistic expectations, and build trust from the outset.
Clarity and transparency improve hiring outcomes, reduce turnover, and strengthen your reputation as an employer who values honesty, structure, and inclusivity. If you need guidance on how to craft the perfect job description, our team at Verti Human Capital will always be here to assist you. Reach out to us at contactus@verti.sg or +65 6909 5691.