Job Descriptions – Development, Maintenance, and Challenges

Any Human Resources Manager will tell you job descriptions, and the variety of challenges that they bring, are integral to the Human Resources support of any business. Job descriptions assist companies in understanding their current open positions, organizing their staff efficiently and effectively, and managing their workforce in relation to their business goals and strategies. However, the development and maintenance of job descriptions can create challenges for businesses that may need creative solutions.

Job descriptions begin with the importance of understanding the job at hand and the tasks performed by the staff member, also known as job analysis. What does this employee do each day? What outcomes are they reaching? What tools do they need to succeed? And most importantly, what does that employee need to bring to the table to be successful? Is it a positive attitude? Is it a degree in computer science? Is it the ability to learn on the job? These characteristics are known as KSAOs, or knowledge, skills, abilities, and other characteristics. Each job will have its own KSAOs, which each pertain to a task that the employee does each day. The best way to find this information is to use the incumbents, supervisors, and co-workers, as well as the internet and other professional organizations, to assist in finding information regarding this job. Once we are confident in the job analysis, we can post the job description, which will include the job identification, job summary, task statements, working conditions, KSAOs, and physical demands.

There are some challenges pertaining to job descriptions, and staffing as a whole. Job descriptions can assist a business by finding areas that can increase efficiency and effectiveness, as well as areas that may need assistance. It is possible to use the job analysis and job descriptions to manage staffing levels by hiring or not hiring specific positions at specific times, evaluating and changing job descriptions/positions as needed, and crafting jobs that keep employees satisfied, and businesses thriving.

While evaluating, developing, and maintaining job descriptions, remember that this is an important and useful function for Human Resources Management, and if done well, can assist the business in the future!