5 Reasons Why Position Descriptions Are Important and How to Make Them Good
Position descriptions (or job descriptions) are essential tools in any business. They provide a clear and structured outline of what is expected of employees, how their role fits into the broader organisation, and the key responsibilities and qualifications required. Here's why position descriptions are important, and how to make sure they’re effective:
1. Clarify Roles and Expectations
A well-crafted position description helps both the employer and employee understand what is expected from the role. It defines responsibilities, tasks, and performance standards clearly, which can minimise confusion and avoid overlap with other roles.
How to Make It Good:
Use clear, concise language.
Detail primary tasks and goals for the role.
Include performance metrics where possible, so expectations are measurable.
2. Attract the Right Candidates
Position descriptions are the first point of contact for potential job candidates. A clear and specific description helps attract the right people by outlining the qualifications, experience, and skills required. It helps filter out applicants who are not suited for the role, saving time in the recruitment process.
How to Make It Good:
Be specific about the skills, experience, and qualifications required.
Include any must-have attributes and preferred qualifications.
Highlight your company’s values and culture to attract candidates who align with them.
3. Ensure Legal Compliance
A good position description can protect your business from legal issues. It helps to define the boundaries of the job, ensuring there is no ambiguity around job duties. It also helps in adhering to employment laws, such as providing minimum pay for the correct skill level.
How to Make It Good:
Review the position description regularly to ensure compliance with changing laws and regulations.
Include specific duties that are consistent with the worker’s classification.
Be mindful of language that could be seen as discriminatory or biased.
4. Improve Performance Management
Position descriptions play a critical role in performance reviews. By establishing clear job expectations upfront, managers and employees have a benchmark to measure progress and assess performance. This helps create transparency and ensures that performance feedback is based on predefined criteria.
How to Make It Good:
Include both short-term and long-term goals for the role.
Specify key performance indicators (KPIs) that are aligned with company objectives.
Regularly update the description to reflect evolving job duties.
5. Support Career Development and Training
Position descriptions are not just about the current job—it’s also a tool for career development. They help employees understand what skills they need to develop in order to progress in their careers. This can lead to more targeted training, professional development opportunities, and career planning.
How to Make It Good:
Outline potential career progression paths within the role.
Identify key skills required for advancement.
Encourage regular review and skill development to keep employees motivated and engaged.
How to Make a Good Position Description
To create a well-rounded and effective position description, consider the following tips:
Be Detailed, But Not Overwhelming: Provide enough information about responsibilities and expectations without being overly detailed or vague.
Use Simple, Clear Language: Avoid jargon or complicated language that might confuse candidates or employees.
Keep It Flexible: The business environment can change quickly, so allow for some flexibility. Include a clause that indicates the role may evolve.
Incorporate Company Culture: Describe how the role fits within the larger organizational structure and company culture.
Review and Update Regularly: Roles can change over time. Regularly revisit and update your position descriptions to ensure they remain relevant and accurate.
Need help crafting position descriptions? Why not get started with our free template! Or contact us directly for fully tailored assistance.
