A: There are three main aspects to a job ad - experience level, skills and personality attributes. Identifying the necessary experience level and skill-set is easy. Gleaning from the job ad what type of personality will succeed in the role is more difficult.

However, there is a knack to understanding the hidden messages in ads. Phrases such as "strong interpersonal skills", "reliable" and "team player" refer to what type of person best fits the culture of an organisation.

Usually the organisation is also described. Phrases such as "innovative", "undergoing growth and expansion" and "boutique firm with top tier clients" speaks volumes about how the organisation views itself and its business strategies.

Another clue can be what is implied by phrases such as "you will be expected to get your hands dirty" or "you will be required to build a team culture" or "it is imperative that you have a commitment to providing excellent client service".

In these cases, those skills or attributes are viewed as essential characteristics that the new recruit would bring to the role.

- John Egerton, manager, corporate, Mahlab Recruitment