These are the top 10 buzzwords used in recruitment

Sifting through the jargon of a job advert can be an annoyingly time-consuming exercise

BY Emily Douglas 22 May 2018

Sifting through the jargon of a job advert can be an annoyingly time-consuming exercise. From overloaded buzzwords to cringe-worthy add ins, why are leaders insisting on using baffling vocabulary in their recruitment drives?

A recent report from Adzuna found that 74% of job adverts use at least on generic buzzword in their description, with the IT sector most likely to use the convoluted word play, being particularly fond of ‘ninja', 'wizard', and ‘'assassin'.

“This repetitive use of generic buzzwords reduces an employer’s chances of finding top candidates - how can you find outstanding talent when every job seeker could identify with those traits?” explained Lily Valentin, US Country Manager at Adzuna.

The research detailed the top ten most over-used, nondescript buzzwords used in job listings. We’ve listed them below, alongside the average salary akin to the job posting they were used in.

1. Flexible
2. Degree
3. Communication skills
4. Qualified
5. Effective
6. Innovation
7. Results
8. Passionate
9. Motivated
10. Hands-on

“The findings suggest that recruiting teams should adjust their listings to attract the brightest and most relevant candidates with more creative and better targeted criteria and qualities,” continued Valentin.

The report also found the top ten most interesting buzzwords used in job listings, which we’ve listed below.

1. Eccentric
2. Evangelist
3. Killer
4. Guru
5. Superhero
6. Rockstar
7. Ninja
8. Wizard
9. Jedi
10. Legend

“Employers should delete the generic descriptions, cut to the chase and simply say what they want,” continued Valentin.

“But do so in a fun, creative way with criteria that will stick out in applicants’ minds. This, in turn, will improve the quality of applicants, resumes and cover letters in their inboxes.”

What’s your favourite buzzwords to use in job listings? Tell us in the comments.