Job Search Terms to Know

Looking for a job (and getting hired) can be exciting but also a bit confusing, especially with all the new terms you may encounter. Whether you’re searching for your first job or a post-grad internship, understanding these key terms can make the process smoother and help you find the best fit. This guide will help you get familiar with the language of job searching and hiring so you can feel more confident and prepared.

Background Check - A standard part of the hiring process, a background check is an inspection of public and private records. A company may require this towards the end of the hiring process. Background checks may include verifying criminal records, work authorization, education history, social media profiles, etc. You can look up laws regarding background checks depending on your city and state here.

Benefits - Benefits are additional pieces of compensation employees receive on top of their regular paycheck. Benefits may include different kinds of insurance coverage, paid vacation and sick days, tuition reimbursement, and more. Full-time jobs are more likely to include benefits; however, some part-time jobs do as well.

Business Casual - Your interviewer may say to dress in business casual for an interview, or you may want to dress in a way that seems professional – business casual could be the right style. It is a style of dress that aims to give a professional and business-like impression.

Compensation - Compensation includes any benefits a person receives as a result of their role or working for a company. It is an all-inclusive term that includes salary, commission, insurance and retirement benefits, tuition reimbursements, or any other benefit or payment received as an employee.

Cover Letter - A brief document that companies may ask for when applying to a job. It serves as an introduction to the hiring manager, highlighting your most relevant skills and experiences. A cover letter gives you the opportunity to explain why you are interested in the position and your enthusiasm for joining the company. By tailoring the cover letter to the position you’re seeking, it can make a strong impression.

Curriculum Vitae (CV) - A Curriculum Vitae or CV is a detailed and lengthy document that outlines your educational background, work experience, skills, and achievements. Unlike a resume, a CV is often multiple pages and provides a comprehensive overview of your professional history, including sections like publications, presentations, and awards. A CV is commonly used for academic, research, or international job applications.

I-9 Form - An I-9 form, or Employment Eligibility Verification form, is a document that U.S. employers must complete for every person they hire. The form verifies the identity and eligibility of the employee to work in the U.S. Both the employer and employee fill out sections, with the employee providing additional documentation.

Informational Interview - This is a conversation to learn about the real-life experience of someone working in a field or role that interests you. It is not a job interview but aims to gather insight about their experiences, the industry, and potential career paths you could follow. It’s recommended to come to these conversations with questions prepared.

Onboarding - Onboarding is the process that helps a new employee settle into their new job and prepares them to start their work. This may include online training, meetings to learn the team culture, shadowing someone on a presentation, etc.

Resume - A resume is a concise document that gives employers a summary of your professional background, including your work experience, education, skills, and accomplishments. It’s typically one to two pages long and helps employers quickly assess your qualifications and fit for a role.

Knowing these job search and hiring terms can make a big difference in your job hunt. Whether you’re just starting out or have been in the workforce for years, being familiar with these terms will help you navigate the process more effectively. Remember, every job search is a learning experience, and understanding these terms is a step towards landing the job you want. Good luck!