Job titles can be misleading
For a start, there is no single standard for job titles so employers can use whatever terminology they internally nominate.
Position descriptions or advertisements can be deliberately misleading to minimise pay and benefits.
Therefore focusing on job titles whilst logical, may lead job seekers to overlook real live opportunities.
The key is to read into the job advertisement and position description to identify what outcome the employer wants from the person performing the role. Beware that is it may be very different from the advertised job title.
This is the reason people often start in a new job only to find that it has little resemblance to the original job description.
Researching job opportunities
- Conduct detailed research before you start preparing your application
- Discuss the position with the employer/recruiter to ensure that they notice your application when they receive it
- You may get information about the organisation that will give you a competitive edge over other applicants
- You can pick up on “buzz words” and “hot” issues in the organisation, which you can use in your application
- Connecting and talking to people will give you a chance to find out if the position is really what you are looking for
How to do it
- Make a phone call or arrange a meeting to research the position is a simple but powerful action
- Reach out via LinkedIn and other social media avenues
- Every one of these contacts is an opportunity to market yourself
- Be prepared with your questions and be aware of how you interact (either personally or virtually)
- These interactions may not win you the position, but they could create future opportunities and connections
- In most cases, employers welcome contact from potential employees and will respond positively to your approach
- Few of your competitors will use this approach, so be organised and business-like and you will almost always create a good first impression
- Often information will be available on websites, in brochures, product or service descriptions, advertising and marketing material, policy documents and annual reports. Copies of these may available on request
Job titles may be an indicator, so base your job hunt on research and connecting with people to validate if the opportunity is really a FIT for you.
Unlock your true career potential with ACMA's proven migrant career management program.
Note: A Career Development Association of Australia research paper found that when professional career guidance occurred that the participant was 2.67 times more likely to secure a job.
All program services can be delivered via our interactive online cloud-based career management "Career Talk" system and/or "one-on-one" in our Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Canberra, Melbourne, Cairns or Auckland offices.
RING 1800 245 380 now to book a FREE consultation
