Be Wary of “Contrived Hipness” in Job Posts

A post at TechCrunch noted some of the The Latest Jobs at CrunchBoard and noted the early success that the board is enjoying since its launch in August. They have received job posts from 12 states and 8 countries and have a pretty prestigious roster of employers that seem to be finding some level of success with their job posts. All good stuff for them.

But one of the job posts in the provided roster of examples describes the open position as “Ajax Rockstar”. I didn’t read the examples listed and was made aware of this job description by the following comment on the post:

RockStah 

I love companies that use the term “rockstar” in the title of their job post (eg. “Ajax Rockstar”). These companies are always lame and run by incompetent retards.

It’s a real time saver.

Although “RockStah” is clearly applying a very broad stroke here in his harsh assessment, I think that he’s onto something that is at least worth mentioning. And his comment was funny, which, for me, always counts for something.

With the proliferation of online job boards, employers, recruiters, etc. are taking more liberties in trying to create the impression of a desirable and/or progressive work environment. This is especially true in the tech industry, where people have visions of impromptu office trampoline parties and kayaking to work every day or what have you. And some companies actually offer these things, which is great.

But the point is that job seekers should not be lulled into the idea that because a company is conveying a “fun” or “progressive” work environment that they are looking for fun or laid-back job applicants. If your resume or cover-letter says something to the effect that you are an “Ajax Rockstar”, you will immediately lose credibility with potential employers.

I have no problem with companies spicing up job posts and descriptions in whatever way they see fit. They are trying to draw attention to themselves in much the same way job seekers are. But as a job seeker it is important to remember that you actually have to maintain the impression that you are a professional and will ultimately be a productive asset to any potential employer.

Tags: employers, job posts, job seekers, resumes

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