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Why Does Every Job Description Sound Like It Was Written by a Robot?

 Have you ever read a job description and felt like you were being recruited for a top-secret government mission rather than a regular job? Or worse—felt like ChatGPT wrote it on autopilot?

Let’s be honest: most job descriptions (JDs) sound like they were created in a factory that mass-produces boredom. They’re stuffed with buzzwords, vague responsibilities, and the ever-elusive requirement for a “rockstar” or “ninja” (seriously, are we hiring for a startup or a Marvel movie?).

Breaking Down the JD Formula

A standard job description often looks like this:

  1. The Grand Introduction:
    “We are a dynamic, fast-paced, innovative company looking for a highly motivated individual to join our team.”
    (Translation: We have no idea how to describe ourselves, so we’re throwing in every generic adjective possible.)

  2. The Endless List of Responsibilities:
    “Manage end-to-end processes, collaborate cross-functionally, leverage data-driven insights, optimize workflows…”
    (Translation: We need you to do everything, but we’re going to make it sound fancy.)

  3. The Magical Requirements:
    “Must have 10+ years of experience in a technology that has only existed for five years.”
    (Translation: We copy-pasted this from another JD without fact-checking.)

  4. The Culture Flex:
    “We have a great work-life balance! Unlimited PTO! But also, you must be available 24/7.”
    (Translation: You will work weekends, but we’ll throw in a ping-pong table as compensation.)

How to Fix the JD Disaster

If you’re a recruiter or hiring manager, here’s how you can stop making JDs sound like an AI-generated snooze fest:

Be Clear and Human: Instead of “We’re seeking a results-driven, detail-oriented professional,” just say, “We need someone who can get things done and has a keen eye for detail.”

Drop the Corporate Jargon: If you wouldn't say it in a normal conversation, don’t put it in a JD. “Leverage cross-functional synergies”? No. Just say, “Work with teams across the company.”

Cut the Unrealistic Requirements: No one is a “self-starter with 15 years of experience in an entry-level role.” Be realistic about what’s actually needed.

Make It Fun (if possible): If your company culture is cool, show it! “Love solving problems and working with a bunch of smart, slightly coffee-addicted people? Let’s talk.”

Final Thoughts

A great JD doesn’t need to sound like a legal contract or a script for a corporate training video. Candidates appreciate clarity, honesty, and a touch of personality. If your JD sounds like it was written by a robot, don’t be surprised if only robots apply. 🤖

What’s the weirdest JD you’ve ever come across? Let’s hear them in the comments! 🚀

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