โA Deeper Look at Job Ad Buzzwords
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Behind the Buzzwords: What Companies Could Really Mean.
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Companies love a buzzword. They sound exciting, energetic, even visionaryโฆ but what do they really mean for you as a candidate?
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Tech job ads often sound like a bingo card of clichรฉs. โFast-paced environment.โ โFlat structure.โ โWeโre like a family.โ These phrases are meant to excite, but more often than not they leave candidates wondering what the job actually involves.
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At Amicus, we speak to engineers and tech talent daily who are tired of decoding job ads. Hereโs what these common phrases could signal, both good and badโฆ and the questions you should ask to get to the truth.
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"Fast-Paced Environment"
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What it sounds like: An exciting company where youโll never be bored.
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What it can mean:
โขPriorities shift frequently. Yesterdayโs plan may not survive todayโs stand-up.
โขDelivery timelines are tight, and sometimes unrealistic.
โขYouโll need to make decisions quickly, often without full information.
โขThere may be pressure to work long hours, especially during sprints or launches.
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The positive spin: Fast-paced can be fun and energising when itโs well-managed. It becomes a red flag when itโs code for chaos or burnout.
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Ask these in your interview:
โขโHow do you manage last-minute changes or shifting goals?โ
โขโWhat does a typical sprint look like here?โ
โขโHow do you support developers during high-pressure phases?โ
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"Flat Structure"
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What it sounds like: No hierarchy, no micromanagement, just freedom and trust.
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What it can mean:
โขThereโs no clear reporting structure, which can lead to confusion or silos.
โขDecision-making can feel like a free-for-all, or be dominated by founders.
โขYou might lack mentorship, career development, or defined progression.
โขExpectations can be inconsistent from one person to the next.
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The positive spin: Flat structures can encourage open communication and collaboration, but only if supported by clarity and accountability.
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Ask this in your interview:
โขโWhoโs responsible for making technical or architectural decisions?โ
โขโWhat does the org chart look like in practice?โ
โขโAre there clear paths for career progression in a flat structure?โ
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"Weโre Like a Family"
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What it sounds like: Supportive, tight-knit culture where everyone looks out for each other.
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