Overcoming Job Description Challenges

Creating and maintaining effective job descriptions is essential for any organization, yet many HR professionals face significant challenges in this area. One major issue is the fast paced changes in job roles. As Alexandra LeBlanc, a lead sourcing specialist at Seven Step RPO, notes, “Keeping job descriptions current isn’t just about redefining a role; it’s about understanding how and why job functions are changing.” To combat this, I recommend conducting annual reviews during performance evaluations. This allows HR to gather real-time feedback from employees, ensuring that job descriptions accurately reflect their evolving roles.

Another challenge is the time constraints that HR departments often face. To address this, consider scheduling specific times, such as quarterly meetings, dedicated solely to updating job descriptions. This prioritization helps prevent them from being overlooked amidst daily tasks.

Additionally, clarity in job descriptions is crucial. Each description should feature an action verb, the object of interest, and a clear context. For example, instead of saying, “Prepares coffee,” specify “Makes espresso drinks using an espresso maker and other equipment to serve customer drinks.”

Utilizing diverse sources can enhance accuracy. Engaging with the incumbent, consulting supervisors, and leveraging tools like O*Net can provide valuable insights. By adopting these strategies, regular reviews, clarity in task descriptions, and varied sources, HR departments can create job descriptions that effectively support recruitment, compliance, and employee satisfaction.