HR professionals know that crafting a compelling job description is part art, part science. But despite best intentions, even well-meaning language can raise red flags for savvy candidates—and potentially damage your employer brand in the process.
When Job Descriptions Send the Wrong Message
A recent analysis by Resume.ai sheds light on this growing disconnect. After reviewing insights from a widely shared Reddit thread, the team uncovered recurring phrases in job listings that job seekers consistently view with skepticism.
Amanda Augustine, a certified career coach and resume expert at Resume.ai, says it’s time for employers to take a closer look at how their postings are being interpreted.
“Just like in real estate, employers often rely on a familiar set of phrases to market their job openings, and it’s up to job seekers to read between the lines,” says Augustine. For instance, she says: “A house listed as needing ‘TLC’ might really mean it requires major repairs. Similarly, a job described as offering a ‘dynamic environment’ or welcoming you as a ‘new member of the family’ could be hinting at unspoken expectations or even a toxic culture.”
Reading Between the Lines: What Candidates Really Hear
The phrases themselves aren’t inherently negative— “fast-paced environment,” “self-starter,” “we work hard and play hard”—but when they appear without context or specificity, candidates often assume the worst.
For example, “entry-level” roles that demand prior experience may come across as disingenuous or misaligned, while “unlimited earning potential” frequently signals a commission-heavy pay structure with little stability.
It’s not just about perception. These common buzzwords can undermine hiring efforts by deterring qualified candidates or contributing to early-stage disengagement. Worse, they can hint at a culture of overwork, ambiguity, or misaligned expectations.
Moving Toward Transparent Communication
As the job market becomes more transparent—and candidates more discerning—employers should revisit the language in their postings with fresh eyes.
Augustine encourages companies to “think twice before defaulting to overused or vague language in their job descriptions,” noting that clearer communication leads to better applicant matches and stronger long-term hires. That is, after all, the goal. What inadvertent messages are you sending to job prospects?
Lin Grensing-Pophal is a Contributing Editor at HR Daily Advisor.