Navigating the job market can be a challenging task on its own, but it becomes even more daunting when job postings are filled with confusing or intimidating language. Do you wonder what it means to be a “social media expert”? Should you shy away from a job if you don’t consider yourself an “accounting guru”?

A recent study revealed that 17% of applicants refrained from applying for a job because of the “vague or perplexing” wording in the job description. While terms like “dynamic,” “blue-sky thinking,” or “self-starter” might remain elusive in their exact definitions, there are some concrete terms every job seeker should be familiar with. To help you on your job search journey, FlexJobs has compiled a glossary of terms commonly encountered in job listings and throughout your career, along with their meanings.

Here are some essential terms that every job seeker should know:

1. Chronological CV: When a job listing requests a chronological CV, it means you should present your job history in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent position. This is the traditional CV format that you are probably already familiar with.
2. Compressed Workweek: If you come across a job posting mentioning a compressed workweek, it implies that the role involves working longer hours over fewer days. For example, instead of working five eight-hour days, you might work four ten-hour days or three twelve-hour days.
3. Digital Nomads: A digital nomad is someone who works remotely from various locations. Digital nomads often move between different places but rely on technology and communication tools to stay connected while travelling. (We’ve previously discussed how to make a digital nomad lifestyle financially viable.)
4. Panel Interview: Also known as a team interview, a panel interview is conducted by two or more people simultaneously. The panel may consist of managers, supervisors, team members, HR representatives, and other company decision-makers.
5. Personal Branding: If you’ve used LinkedIn recently, you’re likely familiar with the concept of “building your brand.” In simple terms, personal branding is the way you market your career focus and expertise. Effective personal branding involves presenting a cohesive message across your social media profiles and application materials.
6. Remote-First/Remote-Friendly: If working from home is a priority for you, carefully examine the language in a job description. A remote-first company has most employees working remotely, rather than at a central office. A remote-friendly company, on the other hand, has policies and procedures in place to accommodate remote work, but it may not have a fully distributed team (as explained above).
7. ROWE (Results-Only Work Environment): A ROWE is a work environment where employees are evaluated based on the results they produce, rather than the hours they spend on the job or their physical presence in the office.
8. CV Summary: Including a CV summary is an excellent way to concisely present yourself as a potential employee. This summary is a brief statement (typically two to four lines) near the top of your CV that offers a compelling snapshot of your experience, achievements, and qualifications.

You can view Flexjobs full glossary here