This article is for HR specialists.
A Job description (known as JD) contains the description and characteristics of the job from the point of view of WHAT the job entails, its specific duties, responsibilities, activities, processes and tasks. The basis of the job description is therefore the description of duties and responsibilities. It can also contain information about remuneration, qualifications and risks, possibly and other characteristics of a specific job position. The job description is usually part of the job specification.
- primarily focuses on what the job entails - the tasks, responsibilities, and roles associated with a specific position
- job description is a component of the broader concept of job specification.
- job description outlines the essential duties, reporting structure, working hours, and other relevant aspects of the job.
- Guidance: Job descriptions serve as a guide for both employees and employers, ensuring clarity about job expectations.
What is included in the job description
The job description includes the basic characteristics of the job in the form of a description
- Job title
- Job Summary
- Job duties and responsibilities
- Job Qualification & Skills
- Compensation, benefits, Salary and remuneration
- Job Risks & Hazards
Why Job Descriptions?
In all kinds of companies, especially in medium and large businesses there is a need to define roles and responsibilities more clearly to improve efficiency and productivity. This led to the creation of standardized job titles and descriptions, which outlined each position’s tasks, duties, and requirements .
Today, job descriptions are used for several purposes
- Work management: Job descriptions help clarify the responsibilities, tasks, and expectations of a role, helping to avoid role ambiguity and conflict.
- Employee Performance management: Job descriptions help plan employee development, set compensation, serve as legal documentation and as a benchmark for assessing employee performance.
- Recruitment: Job descriptions help prospective applicants understand whether they would be a good fit for the position by providing a clear outline of what a role involves and what skills and qualifications are required
Assigning an employee to a job
- In the basic settings, you can also assign employees to the job position