Should this ever be on a job description for a Graphic Designer??

8 Comments

1. joey rosenbergSeptember 22,2024 at 12:50PM UTC

   I often find that job descriptions can tell a story about past issues that companies are trying to solve and don't want to repeat with the next hire. I am guessing that they've had people management issues around feedback (it could be that managers aren't doing a great job of giving feedback / setting expectations or that a past employee wasn't great at receiving feedback and delivering on expectations). If you interview for this position, you might want to ask about the culture around feedback, 1:1s, and mentorship within the company.

2. AnonymousSeptember 22,2024 at 2:51PM UTC

   "Modify behavior" would indicate they have had problems with people not taking direction (or taking it poorly). They may also have a "my way or the highway" attitude and not be a collaborative organization. This requirement would be something to discuss in the interview. Ask about how they rate their need for collaboration and teamwork. The "modify behavior" point could also be an ableist "requirement" like "be able to lift and carry 25 pounds" for someone who is in a 95 percent desk job. It could disqualify anyone with difficulty quickly changing procedures and requirements. I have worked with people who have had a meltdown when someone changed the format of a regularly used form even after management explained the reason for the changes, so I understand the issue. It is not something I would put on a JD, though.

3. Sue Gordon- retired Career CoachSeptember 22,2024 at 4:33PM UTC

   This reads like they’ve recently had a problem employee and think this will help them avoid it in a new hire.

   But yes, an employer can ask you to modify your behavior to meet the expectations of the job and it’s not unreasonable to ask people to be flexible with change.

4. AnonymousSeptember 22,2024 at 7:02PM UTC

   JDs sometimes like to share their feelings. This was written as a message that described the problem. Poorly written job descriptions are many times a reflection of a company’s culture. When you interview use this as a question “I’m curious, the JD mentioned modify behavior. Would you mind expanding on the meaning of that? “ It means the previous person in the position wasn’t flexible. Give a closer look at this company’s culture. Search LinkedIn and see how many people you can find that no longer work there. Embrace ambiguity = we don’t have a structure.

   Doe this company appear to be a dictatorship or democracy? If you ask the question above , watch for the facial expressions, the intonations, and if they bad mouth the previous person. Then decide if this is the right environment for you.

5. AnonymousSeptember 23,2024 at 3:29PM UTC

   Too much emphasis on your part for word choice of "modify behavior". I can think of many instances where myself or those reporting to me needed to modify behaviors.

   Most recently I have a relatively new hire who is silent in meetings on projects he is managing, in our 1:1s I coached to help him find ways to speak up and ask questions. He does now and is a better contributor.

   Don't get so caught up on a word, being adaptable and changing up how you respond to situations (i.e. your behavior) is a great skill that will take you far.

6. Megan LeasherSeptember 23,2024 at 4:54PM UTC

   Definitely reads like they have recently had a problem employee and are trying to avoid it again. That being said, "modify behavior" is a poor choice of words. The other things they listed, IMHO, cover the sentiment nicely and they didn't need to go there. But perhaps there's an issue here that opens a door for you to inquire about, if you feel comfortable.

7. AnonymousSeptember 26,2024 at 8:05PM UTC

   I posted this, and I actually worked at this company in this position for 15 years. A new president came in, and COVID hit, my position was terminated March 2020. After 6 months another graphic designer was hired. I am VERY familiar with this position. Yes, the company is changing and graphic design is always about pivoting priorities. I was just struck by the modify behavior. Knowing this company, it means don't speak up, and you will get thrown under the bus. However, the best thing that happened to me was being let go from this job. Within 2 months, my migraines disappeared.

8. Alica DiazApril 7,2026 at 11:02AM UTC

   Excellent conversation—this emphasizes how crucial encouraging work environments are for development and innovation. In my opinion, having access to trustworthy graphic design services may also have a significant impact in work settings, particularly when teams need to visually convey ideas. More discussions like these that emphasize empowerment, teamwork, and creating better employment experiences for all are heartening.