Why do job descriptions matter?

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Writing an employee job description is a vital step every employer should take for all positions. A good job description will allow business owners to create better job postings, set employment expectations and aid in performance management.

Benefits of a written job description:

• Helps you in the hiring process. It will be the basis of your job ad and will help you clearly communicate the qualifications, skills, and experiences required of the position to prospective employees.
• Allows you to develop compensation plans that ensure jobs are compensated to appropriately reflect their level of responsibility and qualifications in the organization.
• You may use it as a basis for performance management. Having a clear job description helps employees understand the responsibilities and duties required of them. It also allows the employer to compare performance against the expectations laid out in the job description, leading to fair and objective evaluations. 
• Can be used to determine performance areas where training and development are needed, contributing to more targeted and effective employee development programs.
• Ensures consistency and fairness in hiring and employee management practices, and can help reduce discrimination claims.  
• Can protect the business if there is a dispute over job roles or performance issues. 

What does a job description include?

• The title of the position
• An overview of the role and how it fits within the organisation
• Who the employee will report to and if they have any direct reports
• Core values expected of all employees  
• A list of the tasks and responsibilities that will make up the job. Indicate which are core duties, and which are secondary tasks
• A description of the experience, knowledge, and skills required
• A list of working conditions or minimum physical requirements
• Where the work will be performed, including remote work options (if applicable) or travel requirements
• Outline general compensation structure and indicate included benefits (health, dental, pension, etc.)
• Note that the job description is not exhaustive, and that duties and responsibilities can change

Job descriptions help align organizational needs with employee tasks, supporting both operational efficiency and human resource management.