How to Deconstruct a Job Posting- Worksheet

Understanding exactly what an employer is looking for will help your application stand out. Customizing your application to the specific requirements listed shows that you've given thought to the job posting and can articulate why or how you are a good fit for the position. Complete this worksheet for each Job Posting that that appeals to you. Be honest and candid in your self-assessment. This exercise will help you to construct a position specific resume and cover letter.

Step I: Record the job posting and description

Job Title:

Employer / Organization:

Name of Position: Training Coordinator

You can also copy and paste them into a Word document saved on your desktop. The idea is to keep them in a convenient, separate place.

Step 2: Identify the requirements listed

Identify the required qualifications, skills and abilities listed in the posting or job description. You might find it helpful to use a highlighter to mark these in different colors.

Required qualifications could include:

• Specific educational requirements (e.g. Bachelor's degree, Master's degree, specific diploma)
• Specific experience (e.g. experience with EXCEL, familiar with a lab environment)
• Specific licenses, courses or certifications (e.g. training in sales or project management)

Employers often list the most important qualifications higher in the posting! Read the posting carefully. Don't minimize areas that you perceive to be less important.

Required Qualifications:

How do you meet the criteria?

Required skills and abilities (competencies) could include:

• Strong communication skills
• Ability to work with minimal supervision
• Efficient at problem-solving and troubleshooting

Skills, abilities, and duties

How do you meet the criteria?

Step 3: Identify how you match the criteria

Now, consider your background, skills and experience and write down how you meet each of the criteria. Highlight these matches as you develop your resume. In your cover letter, focus on your key qualifications and strengths relative to the posting.

For positions with long lists of qualifications or skills, identify categories and match your skills to that broader category. Don't worry if you don't have experience in every area but aim to meet a minimum of 75% of the requirements. Showcase your competencies and demonstrate that you have thought about the job posting and how you are a good fit for the position.

PLEASE Fill IN THE BLANKS and answer the 3 question.