Job Descriptions

I looked at my current job as a resident assistant for this post.  The job description did not really influence me applying for the job.  I had wanted to be a resident assistant since before I started college, so I didn’t really read the description other than to influence the short essays I had to write.  I already had an idea of what an RA did and what the purpose of the position was, so I didn’t feel like reading it would influence my decision a lot.  I was right, even reading the vague description didn’t turn me away from the position.  I’ve already discussed what the hiring process was like and that didn’t turn me away from it either because I knew that I wanted the position and I would be good at it if I got the chance.

After having held the position for a couple years, I can say that the description does give a good idea of the purpose of the position and the overarching goals the employee is trying to meet, but it doesn’t say anything about what the tangible responsibilities and duties are.  For example, as an RA I have to create door decorations for residents, bulletin boards, and be on duty at least once a week where I hold desk hours and perform rounds through the building.  None of those things are listed in the description when that is what I often define being an RA as.

I suppose it makes sense that a description would give a more general idea of the position with the themes and goals over the course of employment because it could be difficult to list more specific responsibilities in a short space.  I think it would be nice if there was a section of the description that listed some of those daily or regular tasks expected of the employee so that they know before they get to the interview and have to ask themselves.  That way they know if they are really prepared for it.