Starting a new role can often feel overwhelming, and this confusion typically stems from an ineffective job description. As discussed in First, Break All the Rules by Buckingham and Coffman (2016), a strong job description is not just a formality required by HR; it is essential for attracting, developing, and retaining top talent.
Creating an effective job description is only part of the challenge; keeping it updated is just as crucial. Many organizations fail to revise job descriptions as roles evolve, which is a common issue. According to SHRM’s article “Job Worth Doing: Update Job Descriptions,” employees frequently take on new responsibilities, especially in fast-paced environments. When job descriptions become outdated, they lose effectiveness, complicating performance evaluations and hiring decisions.
The pandemic highlighted this challenge. As reported by The Seattle Times in “These Businesses Found a Way Around the Worker Shortage,” many lower-wage positions changed due to safety protocols and evolving customer demands. Companies that adapted quickly had to redefine job responsibilities entirely.
Another common mistake is using vague terms like “hardworking” or “team player.” Instead, First, Break All the Rules recommends focusing on specific skills, knowledge, and inherent talents, key indicators of a role’s success.
To improve job descriptions, follow these steps:
- Consult current employees to conduct a comprehensive job analysis, as Harvard Business Review’s Definitive Guide to Recruiting suggested.
- Regularly update job descriptions, adjusting during annual reviews rather than only when hiring.
- Be clear and precise, outlining measurable goals and clear expectations.
Organizations can better support employee success and drive overall growth by treating job descriptions as dynamic tools rather than static documents.
Sources:
Buckingham, M. & Coffman, C. (2016). First, Break All the Rules: What the World’s Greatest Managers Do Differently.
Groysberg, B., Nohria, N., & Fernández-Aráoz, C. (2009, May 1). The definitive guide to recruiting in Good Times and bad. Harvard Business Review. https://hbr.org/2009/05/the-definitive-guide-to-recruiting-in-good-times-and-bad
Rosenberg, E. (2021, June 12). These businesses found a way around the worker shortage: A big boost in wages. The Seattle Times. https://www.seattletimes.com/business/these-businesses-found-a-way-around-the-worker-shortage-a-big-boost-in-wages/
Tyler, K. (2023, December 21). Job worth doing: Update descriptions. Welcome to SHRM. https://www.shrm.org/topics-tools/news/hr-magazine/job-worth-update-descriptions