Job Analysis and Job Descriptions!

A job description is a detailed statement of the duties and responsibilities pertaining to a given position in line with a company’s mission and goals. A job description is important in deciding salary levels, planning a career, reviewing performance, and recruitment. It is a valuable resource used to evaluate job performance and expectations.  There are different challenges experienced while developing and maintaining job descriptions. One has to understand all the facets of the job description, including recruitment, training and performance assessment, and compensation. These aspects have to be updated regularly, and failing to update may have dire legal and financial implications. An up-to-date job description is required for workforce planning and facilitating efficient business operations. However, challenges are experienced when there is insufficient communication with employees, and with the evolving business environment, roles have to keep on being redefined. Inconsistencies in job descriptions regarding employee duties and skillsets can result in problems in compensation.

Other challenges may be experienced by small organizations where the employees are required to undertake multiple responsibilities. Due to a large number of responsibilities, the job description may prove ineffective. While writing a job description, one must adhere to the company’s policies guidelines and be careful not to violate employment laws through a discriminatory or biased approach. The employee must understand that they bear the responsibility and can be held liable and accountable for failing to meet the performance expectations. Therefore, job descriptions have to be concise in outlining the duties and responsibilities pertaining to a given position in line with the company’s operating standards. However, the process of job analysis may be imprecise since it involves various organizational requirements. It can be time-consuming and make use of financial resources that can disrupt some processes and employee productivity.