The Hidden Code in a Job Description (and How to Crack it).
So you found a job that looks promising. You click. You scan. You pause.
“Do I even qualify? I have some of the qualifications, not all”
“What are they really looking for?”
“How do I stand out?”
Here’s the secret: Job descriptions are problem statements.
Your job? Show them you’re the solution.
Real Talk: “I Can Do This Job” Isn’t Enough
The number one thing I hear from candidates is: “I can do this job.” But here’s the deal: That’s the bare minimum. Companies aren’t looking for someone who can just do the job. They’re looking for someone who understands why the job exists and how to move the needle.
Execution is expected. Being the solution is what gets you hired.
When you shift your mindset from “I can do this” to “Here’s how I solve your problem,” you instantly stand out as strategic—not just tactical.
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Step 1: Spot the Problem
Every role exists to fix something. Before you tweak your resume or write a single word, ask:
- What’s broken that they’re hiring for?
- What does success really look like here?
- What kind of person would crush it?
Look past the bullet points. Read between the lines.
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Step 2: Sort the Clues
Take the JD and divide it into three piles:
Must-Haves: Non-negotiables. Think: certifications, years of experience, specific tools. If you’re missing these, apply with a strong story—or skip it.
Nice-to-Haves: Bonus points. These aren’t deal-breakers, but they boost your odds. This is where your edge comes through.
Unstated Expectations: The soft skills and instincts they’re hoping for but not spelling out. Think: initiative, leadership, agility under pressure.
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Step 3: Aim Your Resume
Your resume = your proof of fit.
- Match their language.
- Hit the must-haves hard.
- Sprinkle in nice-to-haves.
- Prove your value with results.
Instead of “Managed events,” write:
“Led 12+ high-impact events, boosting attendance by 30% year over year.”
Show them you’re not just doing the work—you’re driving outcomes.
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Step 4: Let the Cover Letter Seal the Deal
This is your chance to connect the dots they won’t. What your cover letter should do:
- Frame the job as a challenge you’re ready to solve.
- Show how your experience fits—even if it’s unconventional.
- Share why this role matters to you and why you’re the one for it.
Example: “You’re looking for someone who can bring structure and spark to your partnerships strategy. That’s exactly what I’ve done across nonprofits and startups—cutting through chaos and turning big ideas into measurable growth.”
This is your story. Own it.
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Step 5: Prep to Speak Their Language
Want to crush the interview? Start here.
Highlight the repeated phrases in the job post.
“Cross-functional collaboration”? “Data-driven decision-making”?
You better have stories locked and loaded.
Final Takeaway: Show Them the Solution
Stop seeing job posts as a checklist. Start seeing them as a roadmap to position yourself as the answer to their challenge.
Don’t just do the job—Show them how you’ll elevate it.
Want my 10-minute job description breakdown worksheet? Fill out the form to receive the download.
