Human Resources
How to Write An Effective Job Description
Sep 10, 2014
Job descriptions should be precise, detail oriented, easy to read and broken down into sections. Writing an effective job description will ensure your applicants and employees understand their role and what they need to do to be held accountable within your organization. Read these tips on how to get started on your job description that will help you find your best candidate.
1. Basic Information. The first important piece of a job description is the job title. A good job title will accurately reflect the nature of the job and the duties performed. When writing an effective job description you will also want to include information such as type of position (full or part time), salary information, and location.
2. Overview of the position. This should include a brief introduction to what the main responsibilities of the position will be, who the candidate will report to, (Vice President / President) and what the overall responsibilities are of the position.
3. Description and the scope of the position. This will include a list of bullet points outlining the key responsibilities of the position. These responsibilities are the most important items that are to be done on a daily basis. This gives the candidate a great idea of what is expected. The trend is moving towards competency-based job descriptions which means extra weight is given to behavioral competencies such as leadership, teamwork, flexibility, and communication.
4. Job specifications and requirements. This section will include items such as, years of experience, education level expected, required certifications, background requirements, and drug screening requirements should all be listed in this section. If there are certain computer programs that require working knowledge and are needed to perform the job this should also be discussed. Job qualifications and requirements are essential and let the candidate know exactly what is expected of each position and also help attract the best qualified candidates.
What to avoid in a job description
- Statements that could be biased or lead to discrimination
- Statements regarding age, race, gender, or religion
- Geographical References- Avoid expressions such as “local residents only”
- Language preferences- do not ask for “English speakers only”
Writing a great job description can attract high quality candidates if written properly. We have a great resource at your finger tips with our HR Support Center. Learn more about our HR Support portal through this short video clip.
