How should a good job description look?

The realities of the contemporary job market demand specifics. Both potential employees and employers have their expectations. Today, we will explain why a job description is an essential tool that guarantees satisfaction during job search and recruitment.

In this article, you will learn:

• What is a job description?
• What elements should a good job description contain?
• Why is a job description so important?
• What is the difference between a job posting and a job description?
• Job description template

Job Position- Definition

Let’s start by explaining what a job position is. A job position is a specific position in a company’s structure, consisting of a set of tasks and responsibilities assigned to an employee.

What is a Job Description?

A job description is a type of document containing information about the tasks, responsibilities, skills, and requirements for a particular position within a company. It is a tool helpful for both employers and potential candidates. A job description precisely defines what to expect in a given position: duties, qualifications required for the role, place in the organizational structure, and other relevant information regarding the position.

Job Description vs. Job Posting

Contrary to appearances, a job description and a job posting are two different documents, although they share the context of recruitment. A job description is more of an internal document that defines a role within the organization. It is usually very detailed, technical, and focused on professional aspects. On the other hand, a job posting is an external tool aimed at informing potential candidates about job openings in a company. Additionally, a job posting aims to attract the attention of potential candidates and encourage them to apply. The job description serves as the basis for the job posting, providing key information needed to create an attractive job offer.

What Does a Good Job Description Offer?

There are several reasons why a job position should be clearly defined. From an employer’s perspective, this is an excellent tool for HR positions. Below are the advantages of a job position description:

• The job description provides clear information about the duties and tasks assigned to the position, allowing employees to clearly understand what is expected of them.
• A good job description streamlines the recruitment process, helping to identify candidates with the right skills and experience.
• A properly prepared job description helps employees understand the employer’s expectations and motivates them to perform their duties accurately.
• A clearly defined job position helps avoid conflict situations and enables employees to determine their career path to other positions within the company.

Job Description- Example

If you’re wondering how to write a job description, below are the elements that should be included in a job description:

1. Job Title: The full, official job title within the organizational structure of the company.
2. Job Purpose: Explanation of why this job position was created.
3. Place in the Company’s Structure: Indication of supervisors and subordinates.
4. Working Conditions: Definition of the place, time, and conditions of work.
5. Scope of Responsibilities: Specification of what the employee will be responsible for reporting to supervisors.
6. Basic Tasks and Duties: Specification and clarification of tasks and duties without describing how they will be performed.
7. Employee’s Rights: Specification of tasks that the employee is authorized to perform.
8. Hazards: Identification of factors that may pose a risk to the employee.
9. Education: Information about the required education for the position.
10. Qualifications: Description of previous experience, knowledge, skills, and qualifications required for the position.
11. Skills: Definition of additional skills useful for the position.
12. Personal Characteristics: Description of the characteristics that the employee should possess.
13. Compensation and Benefits: Information on the amount of compensation, bonuses, benefits package, and other benefits.

Our sample job description contains information that should be included in such a document, although in most cases, the job description should be tailored to the specific position and characteristics of the company.

Protip: It is worth ensuring that the job title is concise, relevant to the scope of duties, and attractive to potential candidates. A good job title for a given position in a company can increase the effectiveness of a recruitment advertisement and contribute to the successful finding of suitable employees.

Attractive Job Description- Example

Are you wondering what to focus on for your potential candidate for a selected job position in your company? Make sure that:

• The language of the job description is clear and understandable (avoid unintelligible vocabulary; adjust the language to the target audience).
• The requirements for the given position are adequate to the real needs of the position.
• Consider the possibility of professional development for the employee.
• Add elements that make the position unique and attractive.
• Update the job description – it is more likely that an employee will be interested in a job description that reflects the developmental changes taking place in the company.

Job Description- Summary

A well-formulated job description speaks to the quality and culture of the company. Undoubtedly, thanks to this document, recruitment becomes effective. Employees understand their role and tasks in the company and are also motivated by the prospect of development. For the employer, it is a helpful tool in evaluating performance and adapting to changes in the organization and planning development.