How to write a job description that clearly articulates the essential job duties and responsibilities, the educational and knowledge requirements and the competencies and skills necessary for successful job performance.
Simply go through these straightforward steps to write your own effective job description. Make use of the 70 plus sample job descriptions and job description tools to help you.
1. Conduct a job analysis
Conduct a job analysis in order to:
A job analysis can be done using one or more of these popular methods:
2. Use a clear job title
This is the first essential element of the job description. The job title should:
2. Describe the job duties and responsibilities
Using your job analysis break down the data you have collected into essential duties and responsibilities. Each duty represents an activity or sequence of activities. Start each duty with an action verb and make sure it is concise and easily understandable.
For example:
3. Describe the qualifications required for the job
List the necessary qualifications for the job. This is the minimum level of education and qualification needed to perform the essential job functions. It includes education, training, licensures and certifications.
4. Describe the experience required for successful job performance
This includes the measurable job-related experience required to properly carry out the job duties and responsibilities. Certain levels of experience may be referred to as "preferred" if they are not a fundamental requirement but would enhance job performance.
5. Describe the competencies required in the job
Competencies are the knowledge, skills, abilities and behavioral attributes necessary for job performance. This list of core competencies will help you define the required competencies for the job.
6. Include reporting structure
Clarify who the employee reports to and who reports to them. This is an important element of the job description as it provides information on how the position fits into the organizational structure.
7. Salary and benefits
It is advisable to provide a salary range rather than a specific number. This allows for flexibility according to the experience and skills of the job candidate.
An accurate job description provides a clear understanding of the scope of the job and what is required for successful job performance.
1. Avoid jargon and internal terminology
To avoid confusion it is best to stick to widely recognized terms and descriptions.
2. Make sure it is an accurate and realistic definition of the job
Include
job duties and requirements that are truly necessary to perform the
job. Avoid creating an unrealistic wish list for the job.
3. Do not use discriminatory language
Be aware of using phrases or terms that may be considered non-compliant with laws prohibiting employment discrimination.
4. Keep it current
Review and update your job description on a regular basis
By clearly and accurately defining and documenting the job you achieve the following:
Over 70 job descriptions for a wide range of jobs.