What is a job description?

A job description is a written explanation that outlines the key responsibilities, qualifications, and expectations for a specific role. It helps clarify what the job involves and how it supports the organization’s goals, giving both employers and candidates a shared understanding of the role and how it fits within the business.

What are the main objectives of a job description?

A job description’s main objective is to clearly present all aspects of a job role to the applicant. Effective job descriptions help employers attract relevant candidates to apply for the proposed job role.

Why are job descriptions important?

Job descriptions are a vital resource for employers. They aid in each step of the employment process as well as the entirety of the team member lifecycle, from recruitment to offboarding.

Why do you need a job description?

Job descriptions are one of the most effective tools for hiring and team alignment. For HR professionals, they clarify the role’s purpose and expectations, making it easier to attract qualified candidates while filtering out those who aren’t a match. They also create a consistent reference point for onboarding and performance management, ensuring everyone is aligned from the start.

What’s the difference between a job description and a job specification?

A job description focuses on the role itself, while a job specification highlights the qualifications needed to succeed in the role. A job description outlines what the job involves—duties, responsibilities, and how the role fits into the organization. A job specification describes the skills, experience, and attributes the company is looking for in a candidate.

What should you put in job duties?

Job duties should be clear, specific, and prioritized. Use bullet points to make the list easy to read, and begin each point with an action verb like “coordinate,” “lead,” or “analyze” to keep the focus on what the role involves. For example, instead of saying, “Handles client communication,” try, “Communicates with clients to understand their needs and recommends tailored solutions.” This approach gives candidates a stronger understanding of what’s expected and helps them assess whether they’re a good fit for the role.