The Importance of Accurate Job Descriptions

October 14, 2019

Job descriptions are an essential component of any organization. Not only is it important that they are thorough and accurate when first crafted, it is vital that they are kept up to date, as employees’ job functions may evolve. Inaccurate or outdated job descriptions can also negatively affect recruiting and productivity, are a detriment to the employer-employee relationship and can also pose serious legal risks for the company.

Impact on Recruiting

When a recruiter is told to hire a new employee, he or she should have a clear idea of the type of person to hire—specifically which qualities, skills and experience to look for to yield a solid group of candidates. This can be gleaned from a detailed job description. Without one, the recruiter cannot hope to find a candidate that will match the manager’s expectations for the position.

On the applicant side, prospective employees need specific job descriptions to decide if the position is a good fit for their qualifications and their desired career. Well-written, accurate job descriptions will ensure that the most relevant, qualified candidates apply for the job.

Employer Expectations

Having a comprehensive job description creates a concrete set of expectations for the employer to communicate to the employee. The employee is aware of his or her responsibilities as outlined in the job description, so there is less confusion about job expectations. It can also serve as an evaluation tool for employers to measure job performance based on pre-defined job duties.

Impact on Recruiting

When a recruiter is told to hire a new employee, he or she should have a clear idea of the type of person to hire—specifically which qualities, skills and experience to look for to yield a solid group of candidates. This can be gleaned from a detailed job description. Without one, the recruiter cannot hope to find a candidate that will match the manager’s expectations for the position.

On the applicant side, prospective employees need specific job descriptions to decide if the position is a good fit for their qualifications and their desired career. Well-written, accurate job descriptions will ensure that the most relevant, qualified candidates apply for the job.

Employer Expectations

Having a comprehensive job description creates a concrete set of expectations for the employer to communicate to the employee. The employee is aware of his or her responsibilities as outlined in the job description, so there is less confusion about job expectations. It can also serve as an evaluation tool for employers to measure job performance based on pre-defined job duties.

  • Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): The ADA stipulates that employers define the “essential functions” of a job, which are the basic duties that an employee must perform. An individual is only protected under the ADA if he or she is capable of performing the essential functions of a job, so it is vital that these functions are specified.

How to Write a Good Job Description

When crafting a job description, interview the manager who will oversee the position and possibly employees who are performing similar jobs. Then, perform a job analysis to further define the position. This may include:

  • Job responsibilities of current employees
  • Analysis of duties, tasks and responsibilities that need to be accomplished by whomever fills the position
  • Research of other companies who have similar jobs

Once enough information has been gathered, write a detailed job description. Common components of well-written job description include:

  • Succinct and accurate job title
  • Overall position description
  • Responsibilities and tasks that the employee will be required to perform
  • Essential functions, with examples of each
  • Required knowledge, skills and abilities
  • Required education and experience
  • Description of the physical demands
  • Description of the work environment

At Robertson Ryan we recognize the importance of having well written, up-to-date job descriptions, but also know that keeping them current can be a time-consuming task. We do have free, easy-to-use job description writing tools and resources, so please contact your Robertson Ryan Team today at 800.258.0277 or reach out to skealy@robertsonryan.com.