Career Glossary
Master the language of career success with our comprehensive glossary of job search, professional development, and workplace terms.
Applicant Screening
The initial process of reviewing and filtering job applications to identify the most qualified candidates for further consideration.
ATS (Applicant Tracking System)
Software used by companies to manage job applications, screen resumes, and track candidates through the hiring process.
Career Counselor
A professional who provides guidance and support to individuals exploring career options, making career changes, or developing their professional paths.
Career Pivot
A strategic career change that leverages existing skills and experience to transition into a new role, industry, or career path.
Cover Letter
A personalized document that accompanies your resume, explaining why you're interested in a specific role and how your skills match the job requirements.
Elevator Pitch
A brief, compelling introduction that summarizes who you are, what you do, and what value you can provide, delivered in 30-60 seconds.
Employment Gap
A period of time when someone was not employed, which appears as a break in their work history on resumes and job applications.
Final Round Interview
The last stage of the interview process where top candidates meet with senior leadership or decision-makers before a hiring decision is made.
Follow-up Email
A professional message sent after job applications, interviews, or networking events to maintain engagement and demonstrate continued interest.
Job Board
Online platforms where employers post job openings and job seekers can search and apply for positions across various industries and locations.
Job Hopping
The practice of changing jobs frequently, typically staying at each position for a relatively short period (1-2 years) before moving to another role.
Performance Improvement Plan (PIP)
A formal document that outlines specific performance issues, expectations for improvement, and timelines for achieving better performance.
Phone Screening
A preliminary interview conducted over the phone to assess basic qualifications and determine if a candidate should advance to the next stage of the hiring process.
Recruiting Agency
Professional service firms that help companies find and hire qualified candidates while assisting job seekers in finding suitable employment opportunities.
Reference Check
The process where potential employers contact previous supervisors, colleagues, or other professional contacts to verify a candidate's background and performance.
Resume Parsing
The process by which ATS software automatically extracts and categorizes information from resumes into searchable database fields.
Salary Negotiation
The process of discussing and agreeing upon compensation package terms with a potential or current employer, including base salary, benefits, and perks.
Skills Assessment
Standardized tests or evaluations used to measure a candidate's specific abilities, knowledge, or competencies relevant to a particular role.
Technical Interview
An interview format that assesses a candidate's technical skills and problem-solving abilities through coding challenges, system design, or technical discussions.
Transferable Skills
Abilities and competencies that can be applied across different jobs, industries, or career paths, making career transitions more feasible.