This is Why Job Descriptions Matter to Employers
If you're wondering what makes a good job description, then you're likely not writing them in a way that provides value to your business. Think about it this way, as an employer, are you using job descriptions as a tool to:
- Recruit top candidates
- Hire the right person for the job
- Promote your unique workplace culture
- Set employment expectations
- Manage job performance
- Develop training and growth opportunities
Producing a well-written job description means that you are clear, concise and accurate when you define a role and how this person contributes to your business.
How to Write Good Job Descriptions
There is no formula to the writing process, however, keeping the above-mentioned uses in mind is a good starting point. While it's not feasible to provide a full and complete list of every task that you'd like your employee to take on, think about how your job descriptions can act as a guide for them. It's all about setting your expectations as their employer, from day one. Here are a few pointers:
- Pick a job title that is targeted so it accurately describes and indicates the purpose of the role.
- Provide a job summary that explains what the role is and offer a day-to-day overview of what they'll be doing.
- Indicate who their direct report will be, which will give them an idea of your company's organizational structure.
- Describe job duties with as much detail as possible so that primary tasks and responsibilities are clearly stated.
- Establish the key skills and competencies that are required to succeed in the role, such as education, years of experience, and core strengths.
- Promote your company culture by telling the candidate why they should spend their time working with you.
- Include contact information so that potential candidate know who to reach out to if they have questions or want to apply.
Are your job descriptions up-to-date?
All jobs change over time. Remember to update your job descriptions so they properly describe what you're looking for, as roles change and evolve. The last thing you want is to have to deal with poor performance in the workplace because you've not set clear expectations or communicated this to your employees. It’s also a good idea to review a job description when someone leaves your business. This is essential to successful employee management. Are you ready to get started? You can also read about your next steps after the recruitment and hiring process on How to Create a Standard Employment Contract for New Employees or download our employer guide on Employee Documentation.
