You’ve seen it a thousand times in job descriptions:

“We’re looking for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment.”

It’s one of those job description clichés that’s supposed to sound exciting, like you’ll be joining a team of movers and shakers, sprinting toward success.

Yet, let’s be honest, often, it’s code for:

“We’re disorganized, understaffed, and constantly putting out fires.”

The problem with the phrase isn’t just that it’s overused, it’s that it says nothing meaningful about the work.

Fast-paced compared to what?

A Formula 1 pit crew?

A hospital emergency room?

A small nonprofit where the Executive Director is juggling ten roles with three volunteer staff?

Every workplace has its rhythms and pressures.

The pace itself isn’t the problem; it’s how the organization manages that pace.

In my perspective, when Human Resources (HR) professionals use vague phrases like this, they miss an opportunity to articulate what matters.

Instead of “fast-paced,” describe the reality:

Do priorities shift quickly?

Are decisions made on tight timelines?

Is the environment a collaborative one, or is it based around more independent work and assignments?

Real leadership communicates clearly, not with buzzwords but with honesty and transparency.

People don’t mind pace; they mind chaos disguised as cool culture.

So, for all the HR professionals, the next time you’re tempted to write “fast-paced environment” in a job posting, STOP.

Say what you mean.

You’ll attract better people and probably create a better workplace environment in the process.

Have a nice day.