Human Resource Management > Job Descriptions
Job Descriptions
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What you need to know about creating job descriptions ...
The first stage of the job description development process is job analysis and usually includes completion of a job analysis questionnaire, individual or group interviews to review the contents of the questionnaires, and workplace tours to visually see where and how work is performed.
Depending on the nature of the project, the data collected during this process includes:
- general information to include title, reporting relationships, hours of work, employment status and job summary;
- a description of the primary and secondary job functions;
- the hours or percentage of time spent on each primary function;
- a breakdown of key tasks for each primary function;
- required knowledge, skills and abilities;
- critical competencies for successful performance;
- physical requirements and working conditions inventory.
Once data is gathered, draft job descriptions are developed and this initiates the second stage of the development process which focuses on review. Typically, one or two layers of management will want an opportunity to review and comment on the draft descriptions prior to review by the job incumbent. During this phase of work the consultant works closely with the client to identify problem areas or unclear data that requires further study. Changes are made where professionally indicated and the final review begins.
The review stage of job description development involves communication with employees and opportunity for them to review their own job description, note inaccuracies or questions in writing, and if necessary, sit down with their supervisor to discuss the description. Once this review is completed, the employee signs the review form and the final editing process begins.