For job seekers, figuring out what a hiring manager wants from you can prove challenging. Rather than being specific, employers often rely on the use of jargon. Qualities such as being an ‘independent thinker’, a ‘multitasker’, or being ‘career-oriented’ are used frequently in employment ads, as well as in actual job descriptions. Confusion over how these types of terms manifest on the job site can open the door for employment disputes. A report indicates that the use of employment-related jargon is more prevalent in the Bay area than in other places. The following sheds light on what some of these terms actually imply and how they can affect your rights as a worker
Study Shows Jargon Common in Bay Area Job Ads
A British job posting aggregator recently surveyed the types of phrases and keywords that are commonly used by employers when posting help wanted ads. What they found was that American companies are more likely to use trendy terms or buzzwords to describe the qualities they want in employees, rather than actual job skills.
The survey showed that this practice is particularly common in California, especially in the Bay Area. Employers here are roughly five times more likely to use jargon when describing a position than they are in other areas. Common examples include:
- Looking for job candidates who are ‘doers’;
- Seeking those looking for a ‘paradigm shift’;
- Listing ‘blue sky thinking’ as one of the top qualities they are looking for; and
- Promising to ‘incentivize’ the job and its processes.
While savvy job candidates incorporate these and other popular terms into their resumes, they often overlook how these terms may materialize on the job site.
The Problem When Job Duties Are Not Clearly Defined
Jargon is not limited to employment postings but often makes its way into job descriptions. Unfortunately, these terms can prove too vague in defining what is actually required from workers. For example:
- Terms such as being a ‘multitasker’ or an ‘all-rounder’ can mean that you will be expected to shoulder numerous duties and jobs either above or beneath your pay level and skill set.
- Being a ‘doer’ or holding a ‘fast track’ position could imply mandatory overtime without pay and long hours without break periods.
- Even a term such as ‘dedicated’ could mean that you are willing to forego family or social life for the sake of the company.
In these situations, it is important to be aware that wages, hours, and other job-related issues are covered under California labor regulations, which protect your rights as a worker.
Contact Our Bay Area Attorneys Today for Help
If you suspect an employer may be in violation of state labor laws, reach out to the Jachimowicz Law Group. Call our office at 408-550-1732 or contact our skilled San Jose employment law attorneys online and request a free, confidential consultation. We can provide the answers you need and help you determine the best course of action in your situation.
Source:
https://labor.ca.gov/laborlawreg.htm
https://www.sacbee.com/news/business/article226530205.html
