Career Glossary
Clear definitions of common job search and career terms.
ATS
An ATS (Applicant Tracking System) is software that companies use to automatically collect, filter, and organize job applications before human recruiters review them.
Competency Profile
A competency profile is a detailed document that outlines the specific skills, knowledge, behaviors, and qualifications required for a particular job role or career level.
Cover Letter
A cover letter is a one-page document that accompanies your resume and introduces you to potential employers, explaining why you're interested in and qualified for a specific job position.
CV
A CV (Curriculum Vitae) is a comprehensive document that details your complete academic and professional history, including education, work experience, skills, publications, and achievements.
Elevator Pitch
An elevator pitch is a brief, persuasive speech of 30-60 seconds that summarizes your professional background, skills, and career goals in the time it takes to ride an elevator.
Employment Contract
An employment contract is a legal agreement between an employer and employee that outlines the terms and conditions of work, including salary, benefits, responsibilities, and duration of employment.
Headhunter
A headhunter is a recruitment professional who actively seeks out and approaches qualified candidates for specific job positions, typically for senior-level or specialized roles.
Job Interview
A job interview is a formal conversation between a job candidate and employer to evaluate whether the candidate is suitable for a specific position. It allows both parties to assess if there's a mutual fit for the role and company culture.
LinkedIn Profile
A LinkedIn profile is your professional online presence that showcases your work experience, skills, and accomplishments to potential employers and networking contacts.
Networking
Networking in job search is the process of building and maintaining professional relationships to discover job opportunities, gain industry insights, and receive referrals from contacts in your field.
Notice Period
A notice period is the amount of time between when you inform your employer that you're leaving your job and your actual last day of work. This timeframe allows employers to find replacements and ensures a smooth transition.
Personal Branding
Personal branding in job search is the process of defining and showcasing your unique professional identity, skills, and values to differentiate yourself from other candidates and attract the right career opportunities.
Probation Period
A probation period is an initial employment phase, typically lasting 3-6 months, where both employer and employee evaluate job performance and fit before confirming permanent employment.
Recruitment
Recruitment is the process that companies use to find, attract, and hire new employees for open positions. It involves advertising jobs, screening candidates, conducting interviews, and selecting the best fit for the role.
References
References in job search are professional contacts who can speak positively about your work performance, skills, and character to potential employers. They provide third-party validation of your qualifications and help employers verify your background.
Salary Negotiation
Salary negotiation is the process of discussing and agreeing upon compensation terms between a job candidate and employer. It involves advocating for fair pay based on your skills, experience, and market value.
Skills
Skills on a CV are the specific abilities, knowledge, and competencies you possess that are relevant to the job you're applying for. They demonstrate what you can do and how you can add value to an employer.
Temp Agency
A temp agency is a staffing firm that connects job seekers with employers for temporary, short-term, or contract work assignments. These agencies serve as intermediaries, matching workers' skills with companies' immediate staffing needs.
Transferable Skills
Transferable skills are abilities and competencies you've developed that can be applied across different jobs, industries, or career paths. These portable skills move with you throughout your career, making you valuable to employers in various fields.
Work Sample Test
A work sample test is a pre-employment assessment where candidates complete actual tasks or projects similar to what they would do in the role. It allows employers to evaluate real job skills rather than just interview responses.