When I think of job postings, I usually think of them as a quick way to grab someone’s attention and make sure the right candidate applies for the position. I look at job descriptions to see if a role sounds interesting, matches my skills, and fits what I’m looking for before I even consider applying. If a posting is unclear or overly generic, I’m more likely to scroll past it.
I also rely on job descriptions when updating my resume. They help me understand what employers value most and allow me to highlight the parts of my experience that best align with the role. Clear job descriptions make it easier to tailor resumes and help me to feel confident that I’m presenting myself accurately.
After learning more about job analysis, I realize job descriptions serve a much bigger purpose than just hiring. One major challenge is keeping them up to date as roles evolve. Jobs often change over time due to new technology, staffing needs, or workflow adjustments. When descriptions aren’t updated, it can create confusion around expectations and make performance reviews more difficult. I’ve seen situations where what’s written doesn’t match the day-to-day work at all.
Not having job descriptions can cause even bigger problems, like unclear responsibilities or uneven workloads. The SHRM article emphasizes that job descriptions should be treated as living documents and reviewed regularly. I agree with this approach. Involving employees in updates and reviewing descriptions consistently can help keep them relevant, useful, and beneficial for both the organization and the employee.
Reference:
SHRM. Job Worth: Update Your Descriptions.
https://www.shrm.org/topics-tools/news/hr-magazine/job-worth-update-descriptions