Graham King

Solvitas perambulum

How I read job postings

behaviour
Summary
When evaluating a job advert, I focus on two key factors: whether it involves a programming language or technology I know and enjoy, and if it offers fully remote work or is conveniently located near my home. If either of these conditions isn't met, I won't pursue the opportunity, as I won't enjoy the work or face inconvenient commutes. However, if both are satisfied, I feel excited about the potential opportunity. Too often, job ads prioritize the writer's perspective instead of addressing what candidates find important.

In the interests of illustrating the complicated programmer psyche for the benefit of anyone involved in recruitment, here’s the two things I look at in a job advert:

  • Is it using a programming language / technology that I know and enjoy?

    If I don’t enjoy the tools, the days are really going to drag. If I don’t already know the language, you’re probably not going to hire me.

  • Is it fully remote, or near my house?

    I have to live somewhere, and right now I live here. I’m sure your office is lovely.

Those are the gatekeeper questions. If the answer to either of those is no, there’s no point reading on, it’s not going to work. You won’t want me, or I won’t enjoy the work, or I’ll have a nasty commute / relocation. If the answer to both of those is yes, then I can get excited, it’s a real opportunity.

Job ads too often focus on what matters to the person writing them, not what matters to the person reading.